Scooters and motorized bikes can make getting to where you are going half the fun. They provide transportation and recreation for teens and adults, and their popularity is growing.

While the fun they provide is great, it is important to be safe. Here are some tips from Pep Boys to maximize the enjoyment of your scooter or other off-road transportation product:

•Always wear a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads when riding your scooter. In some places, it’s the law.

•Do not wear wrist guards. They can actually make you less safe––they restrict your wrist movements, making it harder for you to grip the handles properly and to steer.

•Children under 12 should not ride motorized scooters.

•Children under 8 should be closely supervised on nonpowered scooters.

•Gravel and uneven pavement can cause falls. Try to avoid riding on these surfaces.

•Even if it’s legal to ride in the street, it may not be safe. Don’t ride your scooter in traffic.

•Don’t ride at night or in low-visibility conditions, when it may be hard to see other vehicles or for them to see you.

•Be sure to wear sturdy shoes.

In addition, many states and municipalities have restrictions or even prohibitions on scooters and other specialty transportation items. Be sure, before you buy a scooter, that the product and your intended use of it comply with local laws.

For more information, visit www.ridesmartprogram.com.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.