When we talk of road accidents we normally assume we are talking of car accidents, bus accidents, motorbike accidents or perhaps bicycle accidents. However, there is another group that should be considered, members of which may both be seriously affected by car accidents and, in some cases, cause the car accidents themselves.
A big number of young people choose different forms of alternative transport- scooters, skateboards and roller blades. All of these can be ridden or driven both on the pavement as well as on the road; therefore people who are using them are actively engaging in the traffic.
Often, people who use these types of alternative transport are somewhat reckless and also ambitious, attempting to impress their peers by complicated tricks and stunts, forgetting about the road safety and other vehicles involved in the traffic. It is also often the case that they do not wear any helmets, which increases the risk for serious injuries in the case of an accident.
In addition, they may be dangerous to pedestrians, who may get knocked over. This is particularly important for the blind and the elderly, who may not notice the skater or not give way to one quickly enough.
It is therefore crucial to take extra care when using these forms of transport. The use of these on the pavement should be limited and skate-parks should be used instead, to minimize the risk of an accident.
