It’s happening every day in cities around the USA, including those frequently strolled by traveling seniors. In Los Angeles, New York and beach cities on both coasts, the electric toys for grown-ups are dangerous.

The introduction of scooters just a few years ago has blossomed into armies of racing electric skaters. Many, single and in packs, speed along sidewalks aimlessly knocking over anyone and anything in their paths. By law, they’re supposed to travel on the street in bike lanes. However, too frequently they race up and down sidewalks at speeds far greater than the advertised 15 MPH.

On your next travel destination while strolling in Central Park, Chicago lakefront or along Hollywood Boulevard, be constantly aware of competing for space with scooter traffic. Look both ways before you suddenly decide to turn to walk into that souvenir shop or for a bite to eat at a nearby McDonald’s. Your next painful option after a scooter collision may be to try to get back up or be taken to the hospital.