Mobility Scooter Operating Tips

Maybe you are new to operating a mobility scooter, or maybe you just need a refresher course. Either way, you came to the right place! This guide from CaliCare Mobility covers all the basics of scooter safety. Feel free to contact us with any questions! CaliCare Mobility is your trusted source for mobility equipment near Atlanta, GA. We welcome our neighbors from Alpharetta, Marietta, and Roswell.

Take Advantage of the User Manual

When you first bring home a shiny new scooter, make sure to read the user manual from cover to cover. Even if you have operated a mobility scooter before, each model is different, and it’s important to understand the unique characteristics of your scooter. In particular, you should take note of any special maintenance requirements.

Plan Ahead

Before visiting a new location with your scooter, it pays to plan ahead. Most public places have accessibility features, as required by the ADA, but some older structures may not have been updated to current standards. Ramps and elevators can also be well-hidden, or inadequately maintained. If you want to avoid a hassle, you can do some internet research to determine whether your destination is accessible, or simply call ahead.

Think Like a Driver

Your mobility scooter does not qualify as a commuter vehicle, of course, but many of the same safety principles can be applied to both cars and scooters. For example, you should pass on the left when operating your scooter, and yield to pedestrians. Always use caution when braking, signal your turns, cross the street at designated crosswalks, and remember to look both ways!

Take It Slow

You might sometimes feel tempted to speed up and reach your destination faster, but you should resist the urge to slam the throttle. This goes double when you are new to operating a mobility scooter. In most cases, you are probably going to be maneuvering around pedestrians on the sidewalk, not competing with cars in the roadway. In these circumstances, slow and steady wins the race!

Get Noticed

Last but not least, always make yourself visible to others. Take full advantage of your lights and signals, even in broad daylight, and use brightly colored or reflective gear to boost visibility at night. If you operate your scooter after dark on a regular basis, you might want to install additional lighting to increase your safety.

We hope you found these tips helpful! Are you still in the market for a mobility scooter? If so, come check out our selection here at CaliCare Mobility. We have a wide range of models in stock, including travel scooters, lightweight scooters, and convenient folding scooters. You can find us in Sandy Springs, GA.

Cali Care Mobility