Scooters are faster, sleeker and more portable than their predecessors. The Georgia Insurance Information Service warns kids and adults to learn a few safety tips before riding.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), scooter injuries have nearly doubled each month since May. In August, 2002 alone, 4,000 injuries required emergency room visits. Nearly 90 percent of those injuries involved children under 15. Of those injuries, 29 percent were fractures and dislocations, 28 percent lacerations, 17 percent bruises and abrasions and 15 percent strains and sprains.

The CPSC estimates that 63 percent of the 9,400 scooter-related injuries so far this year could have been prevented with protective gear.

• Wear protective gear, including a helmet, pads, or guards on the arms, wrists and knees.
• Be sure to wear proper shoes, not flip-flops, and do not ride bare footed.
• Never ride a scooter at night. Unlike bikes, scooters don't have reflectors.
• Children under age 8 should always be supervised by an adult. Older kids should be supervised if crossing streets.

According to the Georgia Insurance Information Service, if you injure someone while on a scooter, a standard homeowners insurance policy will offer you liability protection. Motorized scooters, however, are not covered under a standard homeowners policy. Check with your insurance agent or insurance company about what protection you need for a motorized scooter.

The Georgia Insurance Information Service is a not-for-profit industry trade association representing property and casualty insurors that write more than 70 percent of the auto, homeowners and renters in Georgia.