Always Wear a Helmet
It's the single most effective piece of safety gear. A certified helmet can protect you from serious head injuries. Protect your most valuable asset—your brain. Make it a non-negotiable part of your riding attire.
Pre-Ride Check
Before you start, take 15 seconds to inspect your scooter. Check the brakes, tires, throttle, and lights. Ensure there's enough battery for your trip. A quick check ensures a smooth and predictable ride.
Obey Traffic Laws
Ride like you're driving a vehicle, because you are. Obey all traffic signals, signs, and local regulations. Use bike lanes when available and always ride in the direction of traffic. Predictability is key to safety.
Stay Alert & Focused
Keep your eyes on the road and be aware of your surroundings: pedestrians, vehicles, and potential hazards like potholes. Avoid using your phone or wearing headphones in both ears. Your focus is your best defense.
Park Responsibly
Your ride isn't over until you've parked correctly. Park in designated areas or near bike racks, leaving sidewalks and access ramps clear for pedestrians. A well-parked scooter is a gift to the next rider and the city.
Brake Early and Gently
Avoid sudden, hard braking, which can cause the wheels to lock and skid. Apply both brakes smoothly and in advance to maintain control, especially when going downhill or on wet surfaces.
Two Hands on Deck
Always keep both hands on the handlebars. This provides maximum stability and control, allowing you to react quickly to any unexpected changes in the road.
Mind the Pedestrians
Pedestrians always have the right of way. Slow down and give them ample space, especially near crosswalks and busy intersections. Be courteous and predictable.
Watch for Car Doors
Ride a safe distance from parked cars. A suddenly opened car door can cause a serious accident. Always be aware of the 'door zone'.
No Sidewalk Riding
Unless local laws specifically permit it, sidewalks are for walking. Riding on them endangers pedestrians. Stick to bike lanes or the street.
Scan Intersections
Look left, right, and left again before crossing any intersection. Make eye contact with drivers to confirm they see you before proceeding.
Be Visible at Night
Our scooters have bright lights, but wearing light-colored or reflective clothing at night makes you even more visible to drivers.
Ride Sober
Never operate a scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It impairs your judgment, balance, and reaction time, putting you and others at risk.
One Rider Per Scooter
Our scooters are designed and balanced for a single rider. Carrying a passenger is strictly prohibited and extremely dangerous.
Use Hand Signals
Just like on a bike, use hand signals to indicate your intention to turn or stop. This communication is crucial for drivers and other riders around you.
Beware of Wet Surfaces
Rain, wet leaves, or puddles significantly reduce traction. Slow down, avoid sharp turns, and increase your braking distance in wet conditions.
Proper Foot Placement
Stand with your feet staggered on the deck, one behind the other, for the best balance. Keep your knees slightly bent to absorb bumps.
Check Your Route
Before you go, have a general idea of your route. This minimizes distractions from checking your phone for directions while riding.
Cross Tracks Carefully
Approach train or tram tracks at as close to a 90-degree angle as possible to prevent your wheel from getting caught in the groove.
Ride Defensively
Assume that drivers may not see you. Always be prepared for the unexpected and maintain a safe following distance.
No Heavy Bags
Avoid carrying heavy items that could throw off your balance. A light backpack is fine, but don't hang bags from the handlebars.
Watch for Potholes
Scan the road ahead for potholes, cracks, and other surface imperfections. Hitting one at speed can cause you to lose control.
Understand the Throttle
Apply the throttle smoothly to accelerate. A sudden burst of power can be jarring and may cause you to lose your balance.
Know Your Limits
If you're a new rider, start in a low-traffic area to get comfortable with the scooter's handling before heading into busy streets.
Listen for Sirens
If you hear an emergency vehicle, pull over to the side safely and stop until it has passed. Give them plenty of room.
Follow Local Signage
Pay attention to 'No Scooter' zones or other specific local regulations that might apply in certain areas like parks or pedestrian malls.
No Headphones
Avoid wearing headphones in both ears. Your hearing is a critical sense for detecting approaching vehicles and other potential hazards.
Group Riding Etiquette
When riding with friends, ride in a single file line. Don't ride side-by-side, as this can block traffic and be dangerous.
Mind Your Speed
Adjust your speed to the conditions. Slow down in congested areas, on bumpy terrain, or during inclement weather.
Report Damaged Scooters
If you find a scooter that is damaged, report it in the app. This helps us keep the fleet safe for everyone.
Wear Proper Footwear
Wear closed-toe shoes for protection and a secure grip on the scooter's deck. Avoid riding in sandals, flip-flops, or high heels.
Avoid Sharp Turns
Make turns wide and gentle. Leaning into a turn too aggressively, especially at speed, can lead to a loss of traction.
Don't Block Access
When parking, never block building entrances, bus stops, driveways, or wheelchair access ramps. Be considerate of others.
Be a City Ambassador
Your riding behavior reflects on the entire scooter community. Ride with courtesy and respect to ensure scooters remain a welcome part of our city.
Look Behind You
Before changing lanes or turning, quickly glance over your shoulder to check for approaching traffic. Don't rely solely on hearing.
Kick-start Gently
To start, give one or two gentle kicks to get moving before applying the throttle. This ensures a smooth and controlled start.
Use the Bell Wisely
A short, polite ring of the bell is usually sufficient to alert others of your presence. Don't use it aggressively.
Beware of Blind Spots
Be extra cautious around large vehicles like buses and trucks. They have large blind spots where you can become invisible.
End Ride Properly
Make sure you properly end your ride in the app to stop the charges. Follow the app's instructions, which may include taking a photo.
Understand Battery Life
Check the scooter's battery level in the app before starting. Ensure it's sufficient for your planned trip to avoid running out of power mid-ride.
Stay Out of Bus Lanes
Unless explicitly allowed for scooters, stay out of dedicated bus lanes. Buses stop and start frequently and may not see you.
Protect Your Eyes
Consider wearing glasses or sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind, dust, debris, and insects while you ride.
No Racing
Public streets are not a racetrack. Do not race with friends or other vehicles. Maintain a safe and controlled speed at all times.
Going Downhill
Control your speed when riding downhill. Feather the brakes gently rather than applying them suddenly to avoid losing control.
Keep to the Right
When in a bike lane or on the street, keep to the right side to allow faster cyclists or vehicles to pass you safely on the left.
Stay Hydrated
On hot days, long rides can be dehydrating. Make sure to drink water before and after your trip to stay alert and healthy.
Don't Ride Distracted
Never try to text, take photos, or use your phone while the scooter is in motion. Pull over and stop completely if you need to use your device.
Check the Weather
Before heading out, check the forecast. Be prepared for changes in weather like sudden rain or strong winds which can affect riding conditions.
Know the No-Go Zones
Check the in-app map for designated no-riding or no-parking zones. Entering these areas may cause the scooter to slow down or prevent you from ending your ride.
Be Patient with Traffic
Don't weave through slow-moving or stopped traffic. It's dangerous as drivers may not see you. Wait patiently for a clear path.
Look for Oil Slicks
Be cautious of rainbow-colored patches on the road, especially after rain. These are oil slicks and are extremely slippery.
Use the Kickstand
When parking, always use the kickstand to ensure the scooter is stable and won't fall over, creating a hazard for others.
Don't Overload
Never exceed the maximum weight limit of the scooter. Overloading it can affect its braking, acceleration, and structural integrity.
Respect Private Property
Do not ride or park on private property without permission. Keep scooters in public spaces where they are accessible to all.
Smooth Throttle Control
Practice modulating the throttle for a smoother ride. Small, gradual adjustments are better than sudden, jerky movements.
Stay Relaxed
Keep a relaxed grip on the handlebars and a flexible stance with bent knees. This helps you absorb shocks and maintain better control.
Give Way to Cyclists
In bike lanes, be mindful of cyclists who may be moving faster than you. Allow them to pass safely and maintain a predictable line.
Never Leave Unattended
During a ride, don't leave your unlocked scooter unattended. Use the 'pause' feature in the app if you need to make a quick stop.
Mind Your Turning Radius
Scooters have a wider turning radius than you might expect. Slow down significantly before making sharp turns to avoid overshooting.
Plan for Hills
Be aware that riding uphill will consume battery power more quickly. Plan your route accordingly if you have a long journey.
Keep Off Expressways
Our scooters are not permitted on highways, freeways, or any road with a high-speed limit. Stick to urban and residential streets.
Watch for Turning Cars
Be extra vigilant for cars making turns, especially right turns. A driver might not see you in the bike lane as they turn.
Secure Loose Clothing
Tuck in scarves, long coats, or loose pants to prevent them from getting caught in the wheels or brakes of the scooter.
Don't Ride in Extreme Weather
Avoid riding during severe weather events like heavy snow, ice storms, or high winds, which make conditions extremely hazardous.
Read the User Agreement
Familiarize yourself with our Terms & Conditions. It contains important information about your responsibilities as a rider.
Practice Emergency Stops
In a safe, open area, practice braking quickly but safely. Knowing how the scooter responds in an emergency stop is a valuable skill.
Yield to Public Transit
Give buses and trams plenty of space. Be aware of their frequent stops and never try to pass a bus on the side where passengers are exiting.
Park Upright
Ensure the scooter is parked on a level surface using the kickstand so it doesn't tip over. A fallen scooter is a tripping hazard.
Be Aware of Animals
Watch out for pets, squirrels, or other animals that might unexpectedly dart into your path. Be prepared to slow down or stop.
Keep a Safe Distance
Don't follow other scooters, cyclists, or vehicles too closely. Leave enough space to react and brake safely if they stop suddenly.
Avoid Sudden Swerves
Ride in a predictable path. If you need to avoid an obstacle, slow down and maneuver smoothly rather than swerving abruptly.
Check for Construction
Be cautious around construction zones. They can have uneven surfaces, loose gravel, and lane shifts. Follow any posted signs and slow down.
Don't Ride Angry
Riding with a clear and calm mind is essential for safety. If you're stressed or angry, you're more likely to take unnecessary risks.
Use Mirrors if Available
Some scooter models may have mirrors. If so, use them to check traffic behind you, but always combine it with a quick shoulder check.
Learn Your City's Rules
Scooter regulations can vary from city to city. Take a moment to learn the specific rules for your area to avoid tickets and ride safely.
Understand Right-of-Way
Know the rules of right-of-way at intersections and crosswalks. When in doubt, it's always safer to yield.
Don't Let Friends Distract You
When riding with others, focus on your own riding and surroundings. Don't get so caught up in conversation that you lose focus on the road.
Respect Bike Racks
When parking at a bike rack, leave ample space for cyclists to lock and unlock their bikes. Don't monopolize the entire rack.
No Stunts or Jumps
Our scooters are built for transportation, not for performing stunts, wheelies, or jumps. Such actions are dangerous and strictly forbidden.
Lean With the Scooter
When turning, lean your body with the scooter. This helps maintain balance and allows for smoother, more controlled turns.
Report Unsafe Riding
If you see someone riding an UrbanGlide scooter unsafely, you can report it to our customer service. This helps us keep the community safe.
Avoid Gravel and Sand
Loose surfaces like gravel, sand, or dirt can cause your tires to lose traction. Avoid them whenever possible or proceed with extreme caution.
Keep Your Account Secure
Do not share your UrbanGlide account login information. You are responsible for all rides taken on your account.
Listen to the Scooter
Pay attention to any unusual sounds from the scooter, like rattling or grinding. If something sounds wrong, stop your ride and report the issue.
Patience is a Virtue
Don't feel pressured by cars behind you. Ride at a speed that is comfortable and safe for you. Pull over to let them pass if necessary.
Don't Race Traffic Lights
Never try to speed through a yellow light. It's better to slow down and stop safely than to risk a collision at an intersection.
Anticipate Driver Intentions
Watch for signs that a car might turn or change lanes, such as turn signals, wheel direction, or the driver looking over their shoulder.
Check Tire Condition
During your pre-ride check, ensure the tires are properly inflated and free from obvious damage. Good tires are key to a safe grip.
Steer Clear of Grates
Metal sewer grates and manhole covers can be very slippery, especially when wet. Avoid riding over them whenever possible.
Use 'Pause Ride' Feature
If you need to pop into a shop, use the 'Pause Ride' feature in the app. This keeps the scooter reserved for you at a lower per-minute rate.
Don't Chase a Rolling Scooter
If a scooter starts to roll away while you are parking, do not jump in front of it. Try to grab it safely from the side or behind.
Stay in Your Lane
When riding in traffic, maintain a consistent position within your lane. Avoid drifting side-to-side, which can confuse drivers.
Never Tow or Be Towed
Do not attempt to tow any object or person with the scooter, and never hold onto another vehicle to be towed. This is extremely dangerous.
Confirm Ride End
Wait for the confirmation in the app that your ride has successfully ended. This ensures you are no longer being charged.
Wear Gloves in Cold
In cold weather, gloves not only keep your hands warm but also ensure you maintain a secure grip on the handlebars and brake levers.
Choose Well-Lit Routes
When riding at night, try to stick to routes that are well-lit. This improves your own visibility and helps you spot road hazards.
Final Parking Photo
Take a clear photo of your parked scooter as required by the app. This serves as proof of responsible parking and helps avoid potential fines.
