Along with the use of electric scooters growing in popularity, it can be a fun and convenient way to get around Chicago. Before you take your first ride on an electric scooter, there are a few things that you should know to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Need a License?
You might be thinking you need a special license or permit to ride an electric scooter in Chicago, but that is not the case. Electric scooters are not considered motorized vehicles, so you do not need any type of license or permit to ride one.
Plan Your Route
Check if riding an electric scooter is legal on the entire route you plan on taking. In Chicago, you must operate the scooter the same as if you were on a bicycle. So, it’s illegal to ride on the sidewalks. You can use the bike paths too. But where bike paths are not available, you must use the bike lanes on the road and this is not the safest place to ride. It’s probably best to stick to bike paths.
Wear Protective Gear
You should always wear protective gear such as a helmet and other safety equipment when riding an electric scooter. The helmets are required by law in Chicago and can save your life if you have any kind of accident or collision while riding. Additionally, you should also make sure that you are wearing bright colored clothing and use reflective gear to increase your visibility when riding.
Charge the Battery
If you plan on taking a longer ride, make sure that the battery on your scooter is charged to at least 50%. This will ensure that you have enough power to get where you need to go without running out of juice in the middle of your journey. It’s also important to read the owner’s manual and familiarize yourself with how the scooter works including all safety features before setting out.
Park Responsibly
Finally, electric scooters must be parked responsibly in Chicago. You cannot block sidewalks or other public areas when parking your scooter. Park it in a designated bike rack or somewhere that won’t obstruct pedestrians. It’s also important to make sure to turn off the power switch when you are done with your ride as this will help conserve battery life.
Have Fun!
Following these tips will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience when riding an electric scooter in Chicago. Have fun!