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How to Drive Your Wheelchair

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Chris

Rules of the Roll

Department of Spokes, State of Alternate Reality

1. Know Your Surroundings
When operating your wheelchair, know the potential hazards and obstacles of your location. Beware of speeding cars while crossing the street, curbs that can flip you out of your
wheelchair, people that you may crush, and ice or other weather conditions. 

2. Know Your Abilities
Do not drive your wheelchair faster than you can handle it. Be aware of your reaction time and driving ability. Make it a point to avoid trying to beat cars across
intersections. Avoid running over small children or knocking people down stairs. Do not drive on the beach because you will get stuck in the sand. 

3. Always Anticipate
This rule is especially important in crowded situations. It is inevitable that a little kid will jump out of nowhere. It is also inevitable that a teenager will almost run into 
you without even knowing you are there. Expect a group of hooligans to be around every corner, so don't run them over. Furthermore, be aware of shopaholics who dart in and out 
of stores and restaurants while carrying 4 to 25 bags. While in a parking lot, look out for cars that may turn quickly or speed through the crosswalk. 

4. Do Not Be "Pushed" Around
Only yield for those who need it. This includes our elders, small children and the adults who may be with them, and people in giant cars. Did I mention that cars are a
potential threat. Well, they are! Just because somebody is taking up the whole sidewalk does not mean that you should move. Do not maliciously seek to cause pain, only take up
the space that you are entitled to. It is important that people give you the equal respect that you deserve. 

5. Do Not Drive Distracted or Under the Influence
Pay attention people! You are driving or pushing a metal vehicle that can hurt people and/or small creatures. I cannot condone operating your awesome wheeled contraption while 
drunk or on powerful drugs. No matter how attractive a person of the opposite sex may be, staring at them is no excuse for running into a mailbox, garbage can, pole, or parked
car. Look alive! 

To ensure the safety of yourself and others (even if they are wearing a Tigers' cap), do whatever you can to follow these guidelines. It is inevitable that you will make some 
mistakes, unless you are some sort of super-hero. Wait a minute, even they make mistakes. It is important to conduct your vehicle in a safe and comfortable manner. After all, 
what would other people feel if you drove like some sort of maniac? Let alone those green people from mars. FYI, Dan is a Martian, but he comes in peace. 

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