Always wear protective clothes to keep yourself safe. A helmet with proper eye wear is an absolute must in the case of an accident. A durable jacket, long pants, and thick gloves will keep your body safe from the elements. Rubber boots and other rain gear are good to keep around in case you need to take your scooter out during inclement weather. When you're purchasing clothing to wear on your scooter, keep the other motorists in mind. Brightly colored, reflective clothing will ensure that you don't blend in with the scenery.
Be aware of your legal duties before you begin riding your scooter. In some states, a special license is required to operate a scooter on the street. Other states require insurance in case you get into an accident with another vehicle. Although most scooter riders wear helmets, some states specifically require them and set guidelines as to which ones are legal. Check with your state's registry of motor vehicles or department of transportation for more information.
Be cautious of your speed when driving through traffic. When driving through bumpy areas or roads with pot holes, reduce your speed to avoid losing control. Always be mindful of the motor traffic around you, since automobile drivers might have a tough time seeing you. Assume that other drivers, pedestrians and bike riders cannot see you, and drive accordingly. It is better to err on the side of caution. Avoid other motorists' blind spots and try to stay in the rear view mirror vision of the car in front of you.
Practice riding your scooter on quiet, residential streets before you take it out on crowded roads. Get familiar with all of the scooters basic controls like lights, brakes, and the gas pedal or throttle. Work your way up to more complex situations, such as emergency braking, avoiding obstacles, negotiating intersections, and night riding. Once you feel completely comfortable operating your scooter, you're ready to take on passengers or start riding in groups with other scooters.
