How to avoid being arrested while skateboarding
From ArticleWorld
Every skateboarder should know how to avoid arrest while skateboarding . This pastime is not very popular with other pavement users, for example. Learn how to not upset people, and then everyone can get along.
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Method
- Be polite. You can’t expect others to tolerate you if you cannot be respectful. Be careful of their property.
- Be sure that you are staying within the law when you skateboard. Some places have laws to prevent you from skateboarding in public parks, etc.
- Look out for ‘no skateboarding’ signs. These are a small clue that people do not want you to board in these areas. If you break bylaws, you can hardly be surprised when you are arrested.
- If someone asks you to leave, you should do so. If it is their property, they would be within their rights to have you arrested. If it is a public place, you can still be arrested for disturbance.
- If the police come, be sure to apologise and tell them you didn’t know it wasn’t allowed in the area. Ignorance is no defence, but they might be more tolerant if you are apologetic.
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Hints
I*f you are asked to leave, don’t take it as a challenge. Skateboards can do damage to flooring and to painted areas, and property owners are right to be worried. Shop keepers may also worry about you damaging their displays. There is also a concern that you may fall and hurt yourself. You may feel that you wouldn’t sue, but your insurance may make a claim against the shop owner on your behalf.
- Pedestrians have right of way, always.
- Be careful of children, dogs and cars.
- You cannot expect to escape arrest if you are rude, crass, noisy or threatening. Get into the habit of being polite to other people, it will serve you well.