14
TYRES
Keep tyres at the pressure recommended by the manufacturer. They will last longer and be safer. Replace when
they become worn. Soft tyres will reduce the range of your batteries.
LIGHTS
Check lights regularly. Use your lights frequently, at dusk onwards, on a dull or rainy day. However, remember
the use of lights may reduce the range of your scooter.
SENSIBLE GUIDELINES FOR SAFETY
When using the footpath
– Just because you are on the footpath or pedestrian precinct does not make you a
pedestrian. If you are on a motorized vehicle you are no longer a pedestrian.
Remember pedestrians always have right of way! -
Many people on foot will be kind and helpful to the
drivers of a wheelchair or scooter, but not everyone!
In a crowded precinct, market area, or footpath
- It is your responsibility to ensure you do not run into
anyone or do any harm with your vehicle. While many people will make way for you, you cannot expect
everyone
to do so. Some will appear to not even realize you are there. They will climb round and even over
your vehicle rather than allow you room to move. Also be very aware of people’s feet.
When climbing or descending kerbs
– Always approach at right angles, with your front wheels straight on to
the kerb. Do not climb or descend kerbs higher than the manufacturer recommends. Move carefully, to avoid
traumatic bumps – to yourself or the vehicle. Kerb climbing in any other manner than that described above will
lead to your machine becoming unstable and the risk of possible accident and injury.
Watch out for
:
Children – They may well run in front of you without warning. You may only be moving very slowly, but
you could still injure a child.
Elderly People – They may be unable to quickly move aside to let you pass. Give way to them
Disabled people on foot – they too may be unable to dodge you
People with visual problems or impaired hearing – Give them space and time
Other motorised vehicle users – You may be doing all the right things. This does not guarantee they will
do likewise
When you need help:
You may need to ask people to open doors for you
. Most people are willing to help, if asked politely. Don’t
struggle to do the impossible or even the very difficult things when there are people around who would help if
asked.
Driving inside shops and buildings
– This is where you have the advantage over car users! Not many
supermarkets would welcome a car driving round their store. But bigger shops and even some quite small ones are
accessible to wheelchairs and scooters. Once inside the store it is
your responsibility
to drive slowly and safely
and not damage the fittings or the stock, or hurt other shoppers or store workers. You may need to ask for help.
