Scooters are becoming more and more popular in Canada and the number of related injuries is also on the rise.  Injuries associated with scooters are most common among 8 to 13 year old children.  Most injuries occur when riders lost control of their scooters and fall. Scooters are less stable than bicycles and more difficult to control. The most common injury is fractures.

Keeping your child safe involves having them wear the right protective gear. This included a helmet, elbow pads and kneepads to prevent injuries.

OTHER TIPS

• Check all fasteners (i.e. nuts and bolts) for tightness
• Make sure both the handlebars and steering column are fully locked into position before use
• Ride on smooth paved surfaces and away from motor vehicle traffic
• Avoid streets and surfaces with water, sand, gravel or dirt
• Do not ride scooters at night
• Be cautious when riding the scooter downhill. When approaching a steep hill, step off the scooter and walk it to the bottom
• Watch out for cars, pedestrians, and cyclists

Children under the age of eight should use the scooter only with close supervision. They have poorer motor skills so they lack the ability to ride them properly.

Canadians should be aware that Transport Canada considers motorized scooters restricted-use motorcycles. Therefore, under the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations, they must bear a label indicating that the vehicle is not intended for use on public roads. For details on where motorized scooters can be used and for age restrictions or recommendations, consult The Ontario Ministry of Transportation.