Are you planning on vacationing in Florida? If you have a disability that prevents you from walking long distances or walking without the help of an aide like a walker or cane, you might want to consider an Orlando scooter rental. With a scooter, you can easily get about, and because you’ll be less tired, you’ll be able to enjoy more of your vacation.
If you’re never operated a mobility scooter before, you may first simply think that others around you should automatically respect your space so you can smoothly operate the equipment. While this is definitely true, it’s a two-way street. Understanding mobility scooter etiquette and being courteous and conscientious of those around you will make your trip to Orlando much more pleasurable and safe for you and other pedestrians.
Mobility Scooter Etiquette Tips
- While you may be operating an electric mobility aide, you are still considered a pedestrian. If at all possible, always stay on the sidewalk or footpath and avoid riding on the road.
- If you need to stop to do something, such as talk to a friend or even just look through your purse for something, move off of the sidewalk. This will give those around you plenty of space to pass you.
- Many mobility scooters can operate at relatively fast speeds. When you’re around others, though, that doesn’t mean you should drive as fast as possible. Keep your speeds safe so you can stop quickly if necessary and won’t endanger others.
- Think of riding your Orlando scooter rental the same way you think of driving a car. Keep to the right and pass on the left.
- If you need to pass someone, always look behind you first to ensure no one is going to be hit when you maneuver the scooter.
- If you receive a cell phone call, don’t try to operate your Orlando scooter rental and talk at the same time. Your driving will become much worse, not only because your attention is on the call, but also because you are only using one hand to steer instead of two.
- When you approach others from behind, are coming up to a covered driveway, or are making a turn where you can’t see what’s on the other side, always alert others of your presence. Mobility scooters are relatively silent; using your horn can keep you and others safe.
- If you are going into a restaurant and have the ability to walk without your scooter, use another mobility aide to get around, such as your crutches, walker, or cane. Park the scooter at the side of the dining area, out of the way. If you do need the scooter, talk to the restaurant staff and request a table that you can easily get up to and away from so you aren’t bumping into other diners.
When you pick up your Orlando scooter rental, we want you to be as safe as possible. Part of ensuring that is making sure you know how to operate the mobility scooter and understand these simple, yet necessary rules of etiquette.