As much as we love hoverboards, they aren’t perfect, and there are some safety risks tagged along with anyone who buys them. But our passion for riding hoverboards are just way too strong that we really don’t care about these risks most of the time. However, it still needs to be addressed that hoverboard injuries are a serious matter these days, so we’re offering some tips for proper hoverboard use.
It’s just the first month of a new year, yet hoverboards are already on the rise. Maybe you just got your first hoverboard last Christmas, or you just gave one to your kids, or perhaps you just happen to see one rolling around your neighborhood. Regardless, it’s really hard not to notice one of this generation's’ hottest new device: the hoverboard.
What are Hoverboards
For those who are unaware of what I’m talking about for some reason, a hoverboard is a two-wheeled mechanical scooter. It’s quite similar to the Segway - minus the handles and the big wheels. The self balancing board can move forward and back, as well as turn in any direction depending on your shift and change in body weight. A slight adjustment will already alter the course, or cause it to come to a stop. Most hoverboards can cap at a max speed of about ten mph.
Hoverboard Issues
Two years ago, there was news about hoverboards exploding. The spontaneous combustion of the battery packs has cause hoverboards to overheat and catch fire. As a result of this issue, a lot of hoverboards were returned from its supplier, while some countries have banned hoverboards completely -- including Australia.
Fast forward today, and the issue has already been resolved, and hoverboards are now supplied with high-quality battery packs. However, one problem remains about hoverboards: they can still put riders at risk of different types of injuries. There is also an increase in people going to the hospital due to hoverboard-related injuries. It’s constantly running havoc and will continue to do so unless people start being more careful with their hoverboard use.
The most common type of hoverboard-related injuries is orthopedic, most especially during sudden speed ups or stops. When the falls forward, they will commonly outstretch their arm, resulting in injuries on the hand, wrist, and elbows. On the other end, related injuries to back falls would include the elbow, neck, or worse, the spine.
Some of these injuries can be serious - it would require surgery and a long and winding recovery. In addition, hoverboards have also been linked to other injuries such as concussion, cuts, bruises and even on different internal organs.
Hoverboard Safety Tips
So with all that’s been said about hoverboard injuries, what can a rider like you do to avoid and prevent these types of incidents? Check out our guidelines and recommendations below:
Before you ride a hoverboard, make sure you are well-protected. Wear protective gear just like you’re going to ride a bicycle. Wear a helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads.
Always start slow. Do not increase your speed right away as you will lose you balance most of the time.
When you are still new and learning how to ride a hoverboard, make sure you have a companion or a thing to hold on while trying to controlling it.
Hoverboard-related injuries are inevitable and can happen to anyone, regardless of age. Do not falsely assure yourself that since you’re an adult, you can maneuver the device better than a kid. As a matter of fact, hoverboard-related injuries tend to be more severe in adults, given the height and speed of the fall.
Only use your hoverboard on smooth and even surfaces. Any rough and uneven surface can cause the board to stop without notice, causing the rider to continue traveling forward and fall.
NEVER ride your hoverboard near vehicular or pedestrian traffic like the streets or on a sidewalk.
Conclusion
Hoverboards are cool, but getting injured in one isn’t. If you want to enjoy using your electric hoverboard, observe proper safety measures. Never try to overestimate your hoverboard. Exercising caution will grant you the benefit of using your hoverboard without any injuries or other problems.