Ride a scooter safely: Always be seen — and more essentials

BERLIN: If you've started riding a motor scooter, there are a few things you should bear in mind to make sure that you arrive safely.

First of all, you have to wear a helmet, as does any passenger you bring along. It's also important to wear the appropriate clothing. Shoes should be sturdy and reach to the ankle - leave the flip-flops till you get to the beach.

If you have a passenger you should explain the most important things before your first ride together: Hold on tight, keep your feet up and keep them on the footrests at the traffic lights. And be ready to lean into the curves.

Since a passenger adds weight, be prepared for a longer braking distance, especially when going downhill.

Since scooters are much narrower than cars, other road users can't always easily see them.

Scooters can disappear from view when they are behind the A-pillar of a car or when on a street or road with limited visibility, for example one that's overgrown or poorly lit.

Conspicuous clothing can help make you more visible.

Because you're less visible, you shouldn't blindly rely on having the right of way. Even if the traffic light is green, it's better to approach intersections slowly and carefully. Always be ready to brake and keep a close eye on other road users.

It's also important to maintain enough distance from other vehicles, particularly when you're riding at an angle behind a vehicle and are in their blind spot.