rental biz startup

[Steve Slater]

Hello, I am considering starting a Segway rental business in a fairly small but very touristy market area. Anyone have any advice? Thanks, Steve.

[Florida Ever-Glides]

Talk to SegwayCity, he is the best you can talk to on this site. He is known as the 'guru' of Segway businesses.

Tom Jacobson
http://www.floridaever-glides.com

[Segway City]

Nope, I don't give advice, only encouragement:

Don't listen to the naysayers who say it can't be done, you can create a dynasty, a mom and pop or anything in between if you work at it. There's a definite element of self-protective anti-competition in the wind and you will hear tell of exaggerated issues to dissuade entry into the industry. I suggest you research the information on this board thoroughly and understand where it eminates from prior to making a Segway related business plan, then work hard at enjoying your labors. It may be the only return you get on your investment, so be happy doing it or don't start at all. And you CAN do it! Good luck to you!

[Florida Ever-Glides]

There are now well over 50 Segway related businesses in the US. Like any other business, it can be done, but expect to work your %#@ off if want to consider eveny making a living. No different than any other business plan...

Tom Jacobson
http://www.floridaever-glides.com

[Stewbonz]

As far as jobs go, riding around on a Segway thru a scenic area with a bunch of new friends is not too shabby.



JEFF JARVIS
http://www.thailandsegwaytours.com/

[GyroGo]

My advice would be to ask more specific questions about the parts of the business you are uncertain about... not that you'll get the answers here, but you're question is way too broad. Whether you succeed or fail depends too much on you're specific talents, opportunities, and resources.

www.bluestreet.com
hot brands for less

[Steve Slater]

Regarding opening a Segway rental biz, I wonder if it is necessary to provide liability insurance for my renters, or if other businesses are just having renters sign off with a waiver? And if providing ins., what company and aprrox. price? Thanks, Steve.

[Florida Ever-Glides]

Steve,

If you have to ask this question, I would suggest something simple like a retail store. There is so much responsibility involved in a Segway related business. And, if you do rentals, you better double up on insurance. It probably won't be long before you are sued for negligence...

Tom Jacobson
http://www.floridaever-glides.com

[Segway City]

No, you don't need liability insurance for your renters, you need it for yourself. A waiver does not indemnify you against claims, it only provides for the assumption of a portion of risk of the inherent dangers that come with operating a Segway by the signer, not negligence by others. If they can claim and prove you were negligent in any fashion, you become liable for damages. Hence, the term "business liability policy".

As Tom indicates, asking these questions indicates a lack of understanding of basic business concepts. You need to seek advice from competent counsel to limit your exposure, an accountant to protect any profits and a local SCORE chapter to assist with a business plan long before you even contemplate the insurance aspect. Insurance companies don't write policies to protect you from yourself for cheap. Rates are determined by the qualities of the operation. A bad operation is like blood in the water for slip-and-fall attorney sharks. Don't make them rich off your misery, do your homework!

[Florida Ever-Glides]

Segway City,

Thank you for the WISE words of wisdom. I appreciate your last thread....

Tom Jacobson
http://www.floridaever-glides.com