When used safely, electric scooters, gas scooters, ATV's, pocket bikes, go-karts and similar motorized products are great fun! However, they are motorized and require an added level of precaution from their rider. Please take note of the following safety recommendations:

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Recommendations:

 v  Responsible riders do not duck in and out of traffic.

v  Friends don't let friends ride scooters when drunk.

v  Responsible riders do not ride at fast speeds on the sidewalk.

v  Friends don't let inexperienced friends ride souped-up scooters.

v  Responsible riders recognize that pedestrians always have the right-of-way.

v  Responsible parents insure that their children wear proper safety gear when riding scooters. And they lead by example.

	Wear a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads. (Wrist guards may make it difficult to grip the handle and steer the scooter.)
	Do forget to wear shoes and Children under age 8 should not use non-powered scooters without close adult supervision. Children under 12 should not ride motorized scooters.
	Drive only during day time. Don't ride scooters at night - riders can't see where they're going or be seen by others
	Learn gradually how to ride and Get use to the brakes. Front brakes provide most of your stopping power, but you will need to learn to adjust your center of gravity to maintain stability. Again, practice this at a safe speed until you are comfortable with this action. Body Position: Stand firm but relaxed. Keep weight between the wheels. Don't stand too close to the front or lean too far back. Shift your weight to the rear when applying brakes, and lean towards the front when accelerating. Keep feet apart for more stability.
	Read the manual before riding and Owners of scooters should check with local authorities for local laws regarding scooters. Click here to get the some information on local DMV rules on the motorized scooter but be sure to confirm with your local DMV.
	Check screws and tires periodically
	Don’t use scooters on Public Street where there is a significant traffic. Never ride scooters in traffic.
	Parents, apply your judgment deciding if you kid is old and mature enough riding the scooter.
	Only one rider at a time, keep safe distance and never try to race on public infrastructure.
	Use scooter on smooth surface. Avoid riding on ice, sand and road bumpers. Avoid gravel and uneven pavement, which can cause falls.

Other Safety Rules to scoot by:

v  Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

v  Learn the local laws and regulations.

v  Ride defensively.

v  Wear bright colored and/or reflective clothing.

v  Observe and yield the right of way.

v  Do not dart out of driveways or from between parked cars.

v  Stop at all stop signs/lights.

v  Be careful when checking traffic and don't swerve when looking over your shoulder.

v  Always go with traffic flow and keep to the far side of the road.

v  Never ride on sidewalks.

v  Wet weather riding impairs traction, braking and visibility, for riders and others. The risk of accident dramatically increases in wet conditions and should be avoided.

v  Stunts, wheelies or jumps can be fun, but they put incredible stress on everything. Riders who insist on jumping risk serious damage to their scooter/kart and themselves.

v  You are sharing roads, trails and riding areas with others. Respect their rights, and be tolerant if they inconvenience you.

v  Always yield right of way to pedestrians and animals. Ride in a way that does not frighten or endanger them, and avoid riding near them when-ever possible.

v  Keep your speed consistent with the conditions, and keep in mind that speed has a direct relation to control as well as component stress.

v  Never carry passengers.

v  Never carry anything that can obstruct vision, or control of your scooter.

v  Everyone must be responsible for the environment, ride accordingly.

v  Karts are designed for recreational use only. They should never be used on streets!        

!!! Visit www.atvsafety.gov for an entire CPSC sponsored website dedicated to ATV safety!!!