As history suggests, innovations are not safe at first, and to make them safer, more research is required e.g., the early airplanes had many problems from takeoff to stability, but the research over the years made them less risky if not risk-free. The same stands for hoverboards, they were dangerous a few years ago, but they are safe now because of the safety measures taken by regulators and manufacturers.
How Hoverboards earned a bad reputation?
The sale of hoverboards surged during 2015, many companies entered the market, and most of the production was unregulated or poorly regulated. The companies used cheap materials to manufacture hoverboards, especially low standard batteries that caused the hoverboards to explode and catch fire. After many hoverboards related incidents worldwide, consumer safety product commission acted and halted hoverboards production and advised consumers to dispose of hoverboards for their safety.
Why are Hoverboards safe in 2020?
After the unfortunate incidents in 2015 and 2016, it was made compulsory for hoverboards to pass 150 rigorous safety tests in order to receive UL certification. This step helped to reduce counterfeit products from the market and raised the standard bar. Now every hoverboard that is UL certified is as safe as your smartphone. Still, one has to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to minimize any mishap’s chances, e.g., don’t overcharge a hoverboard.
Another reason is that after the incidents, the consumers’ skepticism about the safety of hoverboards increased drastically; owing to this, many companies were on the brink of bankruptcy; therefore, the companies invested in safety measures to earn the trust of consumers and increase their market share. Many steps have been taken to make hoverboards safe, and fortunately, hoverboards are completely safe now.
Are Hoverboards safe to ride?
Like the other means of transport, hoverboards are not risk-free. But manufacturers have introduced hoverboards for almost every age group, and the safety kits minimize of the chances of getting injured. Moreover, best safe hoverboards have learning mode that helps to get used to the hoverboard without getting black and blue marks. A hoverboard stays under the control of the rider.
What should a consumer do to make it safer?
- Make sure that the hoverboard is UL 2272 certified, but the problem is that you may come across a counterfeit hoverboard with a fake UL mark; therefore, only buy from retailers that require UL certification e.g., Amazon.
- Follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and only buy the hoverboard that is compatible with your age and skill.
- Wear safety kits while riding a hoverboard.
- Do not overcharge the hoverboard.
- Only use the recommended charger; using an incompatible charger may cause the hoverboard to heat up.
Conclusion
The hoverboard industry has made progress in ensuring the safety of its customers. It is now completely safe to buy a hoverboard, but only the hoverboard that has passed safety tests.
