We constantly see videos of young kids on their Mini Micro scooters going to the skatepark and getting slammed into by more experienced riders. This is bound to happen at any busy skatepark and is almost impossible to avoid but if you’ve spent more than an hour at any skatepark you will notice that there are some unwritten rules that keep people safe and happy.
Tip #1:
First off, skateparks are a place for people of all ages and skill levels to enjoy whether you’re riding a scooter, skateboard, BMX or rollerblades and that’s how it should be. However, if you’re very new to the sport it is definitely not a good idea to head to the park at the busiest times. If you are inexperienced when it comes to riding ramps and how the park is used, you will likely just be in the way of other skatepark users and this can result in a collision. Instead, go down to your local park in the early morning when probably the only ones using the park at this time will be young kids with their parents and more inexperienced riders. This is a good way to learn how to use the park without getting in everyone’s way.
Tip #2:
Another way to avoid an accident is to watch the other skatepark users and study how they are using the park. More advanced riders could be using a huge area of the park transitioning from section to section with heaps of speed where other people might just be seshing a ledge or a mini ramp. Just keep your eyes open and do a quick scan of the park before you drop in.
For the parents, it is more than okay to bring your young child to the skatepark. However, if you notice your child is getting in the way and causing people to alter their lines it could be a good idea to talk to your child about this and maybe direct them to a smaller and quieter part of the park to save them from injury.
Tip #3:
But the most important rule of any skatepark, is wait your turn! Dropping in on someone or snaking them is the quickest and easiest way to cause a problem. So, to avoid this, be patient and simply wait for the person that’s rolling to stop. If you’re waiting at the top of a ramp, stand off to the side and never have your scooter or skateboard on the edge of the ramp waiting to drop in while someone is in the ramp. Once everyone’s figured out what each rider is doing a cycle usually begins.
