Driving or using ride-sharing services can be a tiresome way to get around. Longboarding through the city streets is becoming a more prominent hobby and transportation option. However, you need to follow these tips for riding a longboard around the town to keep yourself safe.
Keep Eyes Open on Sidewalk
Depending on where you live, there may not be enough room on the road. The sidewalk may be your safest option, although it can be difficult to maneuver whenever there’s heavy walking traffic.
Keep a keen eye on what direction pedestrians, cyclists, and fellow skaters are going. It’s helpful to communicate with other pedestrians while working your way through the crowd.
You also need to be aware of any uneven pavement or cracks. You don’t want to wipe out because you weren’t paying attention to an elevated chunk of concrete.
Use Bike Lanes When Available
Specifically designed bike lanes are the safest option for your longboarding experience. Usually, these lanes are free from traffic, offering you a safe space to roam freely. If you utilize a bike lane, stay in your half of the lane to avoid colliding with riders and other boarders.
Signal Before You Turn
You can’t assume that other motorists know where you are going. Therefore, always signal when you plan on going in a different direction. Use your hands and arms to signify your next move to avoid an unfortunate collision. Always gesture with authority to ensure your intentions are clear.
Follow Rules of the Road
When mixing it up with other vehicles, always follow the road rules that apply to everyone else behind the wheel. It may be tempting to ignore certain traffic signals or stop signs, but guaranteeing safe travel is far more important than getting somewhere quickly. Plus, reckless longboarding might irritate drivers around you.
Stop sign courtesy is probably the most common misunderstanding when you are on your board. Use nonverbal cues to navigate through traffic and remember to follow the basic rules of a four-way stop.
Anticipate a Driver’s Actions
Carefully evaluate and predict what other drivers are going to do. Sometimes, a car won’t signal itself, so you need to remain on high alert.
Be aware of what is happening around you. Plenty of movement can happen within a blink of an eye, so you must know how to react if something unforeseen occurs.
Wear Protective Gear
It’s wise to always wear a helmet and other protective equipment when you’re going through town. Besides protective gear, it’s also smart to bring a skate tool with you, particularly for lengthy journeys. That way, you can perform any essential longboard maintenance, like tightening loose wheels or altering your kingpin, if you feel your ride is wobbly.
Using these tips for riding a longboard around the town provides you an opportunity to travel safely without giving up on your board. You can accomplish most of these tips with common courtesy, so it shouldn’t be too much of a stretch to make them happen.
Jacob Lund Image Credit: #39818459709509
Young people skateboarding outdoors on the road By Jacob Lund
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