Essential Electric Scooter Safety Tips Every Rider Should Know

Electric scooters offer a fantastic way to get around, but like any form of transport, they come with risks. The good news is that most accidents are preventable with proper preparation and awareness. As someone who has been commuting by e-scooter for over four years, I've learned these lessons both from experience and research. This guide covers the essential safety practices that will keep you protected on Australian roads and paths.

Essential Safety Gear

Before we discuss riding techniques, let's address the equipment that can make the difference between a minor tumble and a serious injury.

Helmets: Your Most Important Investment

Wearing a helmet isn't just smart—it's legally required in most Australian states. But not all helmets offer the same protection. For e-scooter riding, choose a helmet that:

• Meets Australian Standards (AS/NZS 2063 for bicycle helmets or AS 1698 for motorcycle helmets)
• Fits snugly without wobbling when you shake your head
• Sits level on your head, covering your forehead
• Has adjustable straps that form a V-shape under your ears

For speeds above 25km/h, consider a full-face helmet that protects your jaw and chin. At higher speeds, facial injuries become more common in accidents.

Visibility Gear

Many e-scooter accidents involve other vehicles whose drivers simply didn't see the rider. Boost your visibility with:

• Bright or fluorescent clothing during the day
• Reflective elements or a high-vis vest at night
• Additional lights beyond your scooter's built-in options
• Reflective strips on your helmet and bag

Protective Clothing

At minimum, wear closed-toe shoes with good grip. At speed, consider:

• Padded gloves to protect your hands in a fall
• Elbow and knee pads for learning or aggressive riding
• Long sleeves and trousers to prevent road rash

Pre-Ride Safety Checks

Professional riders call it the "ABC check"—a quick inspection before every ride that catches problems before they become dangerous.

The ABC Check

• A - Air: Check tyre pressure (if pneumatic) and inspect for damage or debris in the tread
• B - Brakes: Test both brakes before moving. They should engage smoothly without excessive travel
• C - Controls: Check the throttle, bell, lights, and folding mechanism (if applicable)

Additionally, ensure your battery has sufficient charge for your journey plus a safety margin. Running out of power mid-ride can leave you in an unsafe location or tempt you to take risks to reach a charger.

Defensive Riding Techniques

The most important safety skill isn't about your scooter—it's about anticipating and avoiding hazards before they become emergencies.

Assume You're Invisible

Despite your visibility gear, operate as if other road users cannot see you. This mindset will keep you alert and prepared for sudden manoeuvres by vehicles. Make eye contact with drivers at intersections and never assume they'll give way, even when you have right of way.

Maintain Safe Following Distances

E-scooters stop differently than cars. Your stopping distance depends on speed, road surface, tyre type, and weather conditions. The "two-second rule" works well: pick a fixed point ahead, and when the vehicle in front passes it, count two seconds. If you pass the point before reaching two, you're too close.

Be Predictable

Sudden movements confuse other road users and cause accidents. Signal your intentions clearly, maintain consistent speed, and avoid weaving between traffic. When turning, check over your shoulder, signal if possible, and make smooth, gradual movements.

Watch for Door Zones

"Dooring"—being hit by an opening car door—is a common urban hazard. When riding past parked cars, maintain at least one metre of clearance. Watch for brake lights, movement inside vehicles, and taxi passengers who may exit without looking.

Hazardous Conditions to Watch For

Surface Hazards

Small-wheeled e-scooters are particularly vulnerable to surface irregularities that cars wouldn't notice:

• Potholes and cracks: Can throw you off or damage your scooter
• Tram tracks: Cross at an angle of at least 45 degrees to prevent wheel catching
• Metal surfaces: Grates, manhole covers, and construction plates become extremely slippery when wet
• Painted lines: Road markings offer significantly less grip, especially in rain
• Gravel and sand: Loose surfaces reduce traction dramatically
• Wet leaves: Deceptively slippery and often hide other hazards

Weather Conditions

Rain dramatically changes the riding equation. Stopping distances increase, visibility decreases, and surface grip reduces. If you must ride in rain, reduce your speed significantly, increase following distance, and avoid aggressive braking or steering.

For more detailed wet-weather guidance, see our complete guide to riding in the rain.

Night Riding Safety

Riding at night requires extra precautions beyond daytime safety measures:

• Use front and rear lights—always, without exception
• Wear reflective gear and light-coloured clothing
• Reduce speed since hazards are harder to see
• Stick to well-lit, familiar routes when possible
• Avoid using headphones so you can hear approaching vehicles

What to Do in an Emergency

Even careful riders sometimes face emergency situations. Knowing what to do can minimise harm.

Emergency Braking

Practice emergency stops in a safe area so the technique becomes muscle memory. Use both brakes simultaneously, shift your weight back, and keep the handlebars straight. The rear brake prevents skidding when combined with the front brake.

If an Accident Seems Inevitable

If you can't stop in time, try to reduce speed as much as possible. Never put your hands out to break your fall—this leads to wrist fractures. Instead, tuck your arms, roll with the impact, and let your protective gear do its job.

Electric scooter riding is generally safe when approached responsibly. The freedom and enjoyment these vehicles provide are well worth the effort of adopting good safety habits. Ride smart, stay visible, and enjoy the journey.