SCOOTERS

In some cities, scooters seem to be everywhere. You might find scooters blocking sidewalks or laid against trash cans. Several new companies think these internet-connected scooters might change how we get around cities in the future.

Bird Rides, Spin and Waybots are startup scooter companies that want to help cities. Now, city governments are also trying to come up with new laws for the scooter riders who behave badly. They want to keep people on the street safe.

These rides are different from the toys because they have motors and they can zip up 15 miles per hour. Getting around is much faster than walking but you can look silly riding one. You use a smart phone app to find a scooter and use one for as little as $1. It is up to you to ride responsibly.

Scooters can be a danger to riders. They are breaking the law by riding without helmets and riding on the sidewalks. In Santa Monica, California leaders say some people have been hurt. Scooters laid on sidewalks and in doorways are also dangerous because they can hurt elderly people or people with wheelchairs. They should be parked on bicycle racks.