Let’s face it; most people you meet when you are out on your scooter are fantastic and helpful. I was really pleased about this. I was nervous when I first used my scooter. I think most people are. I used to be a car driver and to be honest I didn’t have much time for scooter users. Having said that I didn’t have much time for anyone who drove slower than me. I’m a much nicer person now.

Back to using my scooter… In the main, pedestrians move out of your way. Kids are polite and go out of THEIR way to not get in YOUR way. People you talk to are interested in you – and with the scooter I am sitting down so am able to stop and talk for as long as I want. Most of the time trips on my scooter are like this. I have my freedom and independence and I love it.

However there can be a darker side.

Now and again someone isn’t so helpful. Now and again someone isn’t looking where they are going. Now and again a driver will get really frustrated with the fact that you go SLOW on a mobility scooter and the fastest I can go is 8 miles per hour!

This doesn’t happen often. I don’t want you to think that this is what life is like when you start to use a scooter. I think the way I deal with it is a really good way.

• If I can – I ignore it!
• If something is my fault – I immediately apologise.
• I never raise my voice or get angry.

This has several advantages:

• If you don’t get upset by someone else’s behaviour, then it is better for YOUR health. You just shrug it off and get on with your day.
• The situation just ends, and doesn’t escalate into a shouting match.

Now and again an accident will happen.

My advice is:

• Keep calm
• Keep cool
• Assess the situation.