They have crept into the cityscape and are hard to imagine life without - the new e-scooters to rent and just drive off. Of course, it's easy to switch on such a scooter on the street via mobile phone, get on and drive off. In this blog post, the protection professionals explain what to look out for when riding an e-scooter.
E-scooters in road traffic
The classic e-scooters travel up to 20 km/h in road traffic and therefore fall under the permissible "emicro vehicle". This is also marked with a nameplate (license plate) and should be checked before driving. The e-scooter must have two brakes, a bell/bell, headlights, tail lights, reflectors and side reflectors. This minimum equipment can ensure that you can make yourself known to other road users through acoustic or visual signals. But as with all road users, the following applies:
Better to look around once too much than once too little before riding.
1. Tip: Practice starting with the e-scooter
Starting off with an e-scooter doesn't look that difficult at first glance, but it still requires some skill. With most e-scooter models, the rider first has to accelerate the e-scooter once (to approx. 5 km/h) by stepping down with his foot so that the e-scooter can really accelerate. So, just like with a classic scooter, just start for a short time so that you can start.
2. Tip: Really step on the gas with the e-scooter
If you have never stood on an e-scooter before, you should only use the throttle grip slowly when starting for the first time to get a feel for acceleration. True to the motto "safety first", you can always go "full throttle" later on when you have gotten used to the vehicle.
3. Tip: Brake correctly with the e-scooter
Since you stand vertically on the e-scooter, the correct braking behavior is extremely important. Note: The higher the speed, the more the weight should be shifted backwards in order to be able to brake in a controlled manner as a precaution. Particular attention should be paid to a firm footing on the e-scooter so that you can react flexibly to the e-scooter. In potential emergency situations, it may even be necessary to jump off the scooter – this should also be practiced beforehand if possible.
4. Tip: Flashing correctly with the e-scooter
When you drive in traffic, you also adhere to the road traffic regulations. This means that the turn signal (if there are any) must be used, or a hand signal must be given when you want to turn. When turning itself, both hands belong back on the handlebars so as not to lose control of the e-scooter.
Note: On most e-scooters, the throttle is on the right handlebar. When you turn, you have to let go of the throttle and lose speed!
5. Tip: Ride an e-scooter in bad weather
Especially now in late summer and early autumn, the leaves fall from the trees or a surprising downpour makes the road a smooth slide. Due to the small tires, the e-scooter does not have the classic grip and can slip away more quickly. Therefore, always drive with foresight and be particularly careful. In heavy rain, you should refrain from riding the e-scooter, as the brakes cannot grip comprehensively.