Safety
Chapter 5
18. Basic Safety Instructions
The following list is a list of possible dangers while using your Minimal Pedal 4. Incorrect use of the vehicle could result in danger to self, public or property including but not limited to:
- Only trained users may operate the vehicle.
- Children must not operate the Pedal 4 under any circumstances.
- Driver must always inspect controls, batteries, wheels and doors before use.
- It is advised to wear personal protective safety equipment at all times (e.g. helmet).
- Adjust seat and mirrors for comfort and visibility.
- Use brake levers to slow or stop.
- Do not operate a faulty vehicle.
- Watch for wet surfaces - tyres may slip.
- Heavier loads increase stopping distance.
- Respect weight limits to maintain stability.
- Follow battery labels and charging procedures.
- Do not ride up/down stairs or low kerbs above 5kph (3mph).
- Avoid water deeper than 10cm or above battery height.
- Do not operate in heavy rain, storms, snow, ice, or on slopes over 10°.
- Avoid kerbs over 13cm—risk of damage or tipping.
Note
If you are unsure of any of the listed items, please contact your employer or Minimal for further guidance.
18.1 Road use warnings
While operating the Minimal Pedal 4 on public roads, the highway code and all relevant traffic laws must be followed at all times. Below are specific warnings that should be understood before operating the vehicle.
- Follow national legal regulations regarding road laws.
- Do not exceed speed limits in pedestrian areas, cycle paths, or side roads. Follow UK signage and markings.
- Keep a safe distance from other road users.
- Misreading traffic flow can cause accidents and injuries.
- Improper use of the vehicle may lead to mechanical failure or confuse other road users.
- Always signal before changing lanes and check behind.
- Avoid constant high beam headlights—can impair others' vision.
- Never use phones or devices while riding. It's illegal and unsafe.
18.2 Environmental Warnings
Recommended useage instructions for operating the Minimal Pedal 4 are listed out in sections: 8-10. Along with safety instructions in sections: 18 and 19 that apply to these warnings.
Below are specific hazards that could occur throughout the environment and should be understood before operating the vehicle.
Warning
Electrical faults due to riding through flooded areas - leading to water ingress in 48V batteries causing:
- Electrical fires and faults
- Permanent damage to batteries making them unusable
How to avoid hazard:
- Ride around flooded zones that are deeper than 10cm
- Avoid riding in extreme weather: heavy rain, storms, high winds, hail, flooding, snow, or ice.
- Plan journeys ahead of time to avoid predictable weather events.
Caution
Mechanical faults due to road conditions causing:
- Damage to vehicle body including cabin.
- Cargo box damage.
- Wheels, tyres and suspension assembly.
- Permanent Bending of frame.
How to avoid hazard:
- Ride on dedicated, maintained road and path ways where the Pedal 4 is legally allowed to operate.
- Beware of potential changes in routes - plan accordingly for deviation.
- Proceed with caution on road surfaces that are not ideal if there is no other option - ideal options include taking alternative routes or navigating around road surface obstacles.
- Position heavy loads towards the base of the cargo box to avoid further possibilities of tipping over the Pedal 4.
Caution
Collisions with vehicles or pedestrians due to misuse or lack of visibility causes:
- Damage to vehicle body including cabin.
- Cargo box damage.
- Wheels, tyres and suspension assembly.
- Damage to lighting.
- Permanent bending of frame.
How to avoid hazard:
- Pay attention to intersections and roadway markings to abide by UK traffic laws.
- Remain predictable to traffic by remaining considerate of road users.
- Use indicators, hazards & lights when applicable and to help remain safe when navigating.
19. Emergency Procedures
Below are situations where an emergency may occur while operating the vehicle, and the correct procedure to follow in order to remain safe.
19.1 Emergency Stop Procedure (Loss of Power)
This procedure is applicable to those conditions in which the vehicle loses power and cannot maintain propulsion.
Caution
Please be aware that other road users may be moving faster than you while at rest, check surroundings and only perform actions listed when it is safe to do so.
Attention
Do not service vehicle without familiarising yourself with the service guide. Please speak to a Minimal technical representative if you have questions relating to servicing.
19.2 Emergency Stop Procedure (Loss of Brake Pressure)
This procedure is applicable to those conditions in which the vehicle loses braking pressure and cannot come to an immediate stop.
If in motion when this occurs please conduct the following steps:
Caution
If you lose brake pressure on a steep decline. Attempt to pump the brake levers by squeezing and releasing the brakes on and off to apply small amounts of possible brakes.
Attention
Do not service vehicle without familiarising yourself with the service guide. Please speak to a Minimal technical representative if you have questions relating to servicing.