There has been an explosion of electric skateboards on the road in recent years. From rental skateboards that let you hop on and go, to privately owned models, micromobility is a popular mode of transportation.
Economical, environmentally friendly, and convenient, it's easy to see why e-skateboards are considered a great alternative to cars and public transport.
If you've never been on a skateboard, riding an e-board in traffic can be daunting. However, knowing how to stay safe on the roads will significantly improve your confidence and prevent accidents.
In this guide, we'll reveal how to ride your Veymax Skateboard in traffic safely and efficiently.
Why is it important to prioritize safety when riding electric skateboards?
Some people get nervous about riding their e-skateboards on public roads, and it's easy to see why. Skateboards don't come with the protective bubble cars offer, and sharing the road with larger vehicles can be daunting.
There are numerous reasons to prioritize your safety on the road, and knowing the potential risks can save your life.
Avoiding Accidents and Injuries
An electric longboard can be dangerous if you don't take proper safety measures. Riders can be involved in accidents, but research from Germany shows that riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is more likely to increase a person's risk of severe injuries.
Prioritizing safety and knowing the dangers of improper riding can help you prevent accidents and injuries.
Protecting Others on the Road
Electric skateboards can harm riders and pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. Remember, as a road user, you're also responsible for the safety of others and have a duty to take necessary precautions.
Avoiding Legal Penalties
Many cities have regulations governing the use of motorized skateboards, and riders who violate these regulations may face legal penalties, such as fines or arrests.
Promoting the Long-Term Viability of Electric Skateboards
E-skateboards are relatively new modes of transportation, and negative press means the public perception of them isn't always positive.
But, if each rider is responsible for their actions, people can continue to use e-skateboards.
Use proper safety gear
One of the most important safety tips we have is wearing safety gear. Despite research surrounding the benefits of helmets, many US states don't make them a legal requirement for e-skateboard riders.
According to study, just 4.4% of people with head injuries from e-skateboard accidents wore helmets. Even if some states don't have a legal requirement, you should always use a good helmet when riding in traffic.
However, other safety gear is also important.
Protective clothing
If you've ever suffered a knee or elbow injury, you'll know how painful it is. Protecting these bones can save you from agonizing fractures and also give you more confidence on the road.
Beginner riders should protect their bodies, and plenty of options are available. From padded vests to protective gear, including jackets, plenty of solutions ensure a stress-free ride.
Understanding Traffic Laws And Regulations
Navigating traffic can be intimidating, especially when riding an e-skateboard. To ensure safety and efficiency, it's essential to understand the laws and regulations governing traffic.
All road users have rights and responsibilities, and it's your duty to know what yours are. Each state has specific laws, so you'll have to familiarize yourself with local rules and regulations.
Research your state's laws
Many states have specific laws regarding e-boards, and knowing what you can and can't do on the road will ensure you enjoy a safe ride and reduce the risk of penalties.
You'll need to look at the following local traffic laws:
- Speed Limits
- Helmet Requirements
- Age Restrictions
- Driving License Requirements
- Insurance
E-Skateboards are different from normal skateboards
When navigating traffic on an electric skateboard, you should keep some key things in mind. It's important to remember that electric longboards fall under the motorized vehicles category, meaning they must obey all the same laws that apply to cars or other motorized vehicles.
For example, you must come to complete stops at stop signs and red lights and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
While most states allow riders to use bike lanes, you still have more responsibilities than cyclists because you're riding a powerful vehicle.
Best Practices For Riding An Electric Skateboard In Traffic
Safety and efficiency should be your top priority when riding a motorized skateboard in traffic. The best way to ensure both is to follow some key best practices on the road.
These electric skateboard safety tips can help you navigate traffic, stay safe, and reach your destination on time.
Know your environment
Obstacles - including potholes and debris - significantly contribute to accidents, but smooth roads are less likely to have them. Knowing the kind of road you're on is a good idea to prevent accidents.
For example, a residential street means you'll need to watch out for children, while a busy main road will be popular with commuters.
Choose the right route
Living in a city means numerous routes to one destination, and you'll have to choose the safest for your skateboard. Even if you're an experienced and confident rider, choosing roads with bicycle lanes and minimal obstructions will keep you safe.
Potholes can be serious causes of injuries, and you should avoid rough terrain to avoid accidents.
Be considerate of other road users
As well as using protective equipment to avoid injuries to yourself, you'll also need to ride safely and be considerate of other road users. A collision can be fatal, especially if the other vehicle is a car - it's the same if you hit a pedestrian.
Following the speed limit and using hand signals when turning or changing lanes ensures other people know where you're going.
Pedestrians have rights, and it's your duty to know them and ensure you don't cause any accidents.
Perform Proper Maintenance
Helmets and other protective equipment can keep you safe if you have an accident, but a well-maintain skateboard will prevent accidents. Proper maintenance ensures you notice and fix any faults with your skateboard before it's too late.
Look after your skateboard's battery
Battery maintenance is essential for e-skateboard safety because it ensures that the e-skateboard has a reliable power source, prevents overheating and potential fires, extends the battery's lifespan, and improves performance.
If the battery doesn't seem to be charging correctly or gets too hot, replace it immediately.
Following these e-skateboard safety tips will keep you safe in traffic
Using an e-skateboard can free up your time and make the daily commute bearable, but safety is central to the experience you have. As long as you think about what you're doing and prioritize safe riding, you'll be able to reap the rewards of e-skateboard ownership.
With skateboards growing in popularity, Veymax is making it easier than ever to own a skateboard. Now, nothing has to stand in your way of benefitting from e-skateboard ownership.
If everyone contributes to making the roads safe, we can continue to enjoy electric skateboards and benefit from the most effective way to get around towns and cities.
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