For many people with mobility restrictions, a mobility scooter provides an independent lifestyle that they would otherwise be without, allowing them to more easily navigate their home and public spaces. However, because a mobility scooter is a motorized vehicle, it comes with safety risks that are essential to be aware of.

Here at Serene Mobility & Lifts, our team has prepared a guide to help you move freely and safely on your mobility scooter. Keep reading to learn more about how you can protect yourself and others around you. Come pay us a visit in Peoria, AZ, where we also serve Sun City and Phoenix, AZ.

Getting to know your mobility scooter by reading the user manual is a great place to start. Most manuals come equipped with safety guidelines and proper maintenance procedures. It is also good to get familiar with the features, functionality, and benefits of your mobility scooter.

It’s advisable to research a new destination in advance before you go anywhere with your mobility scooter, making sure that you know if accessibility features exist, and if so, where they are located. Even though most public places and businesses do have accessibility features, contacting the city department or business ahead of time can ensure that your visit is a safe and smooth one.

Though obviously slower than most other vehicles, mobility scooters are still able to reach fairly high speeds, including up to 18 mph in certain models. It is always recommended that you remain at slower speeds, especially in areas with crowds of pedestrians, to avoid collisions or loss of control of the scooter.

Mobility scooters can be very quiet even when they are moving. It is highly advisable to wear reflective material or bright colors and to attach horns or bells to make sure that you are seen and heard. If it is absolutely necessary to be out in the early morning or at night, add lights to your vehicle.

When operating a mobility scooter, keep in mind that you are often surrounded by pedestrians. Do not use your phone or any handheld devices while driving, as it can distract you. These scooters are not designed to be ridden on rough or slippery surfaces, so be extra careful when driving on loose gravel or any other surfaces that are not flat, smooth, or dry.

If you have any questions about safely operating your mobility scooter, or you’re ready to start shopping for your own, visit us at Serene Mobility & Lifts. Our amazing team is waiting to help you find exactly what you need and to answer any questions you may have. We are located in Peoria, AZ, and also proudly serve Sun City and Phoenix, AZ.