Electric scooters, commonly called e-scooters, seem to be everywhere. We’re learning more and more about the numerous safety issues associated with them.
It can certainly be dangerous for people to ride them on the road, where they risk being struck by a vehicle. However, when people use e-scooters on sidewalks, they pose a serious danger to pedestrians who are walking or just standing. Many cities have restricted or banned their use on sidewalks and other pedestrian areas and imposed speed limits.
Collisions involving scooters and pedestrians can be devastating
The severity of injuries that scooters can inflict was shown yet again this month. An actress was critically injured when she was struck by a scooter as she was crossing the street near Lincoln Center in New York City. The rider did not stop, and authorities at last report hadn’t located them. It’s not known whether the scooter was electric or not.
With companies like Uber and Lyft getting into the e-scooter business, their popularity isn’t likely to end any time soon. Many adults use them, particularly in large cities, as a primary mode of transportation. That means they’re riding scooters to work and other destinations where they may not have the luxury of running late. This, of course, can lead to dangerous maneuvers that put others at risk.
IIHS studies look in-depth at e-scooter injuries
Following recent studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) on e-scooter injuries, the lead author noted that while riders who are in crashes with vehicles can be seriously injured, ”there are legitimate concerns that sidewalk riders could crash into pedestrians.” Most injuries to riders occur on sidewalks – probably because that’s where they’re most likely to be.
If you or a loved one has been injured by an e-scooter rider, it’s important to understand that you have a right to hold that rider liable in addition to any criminal charges they might face. That can help you get the compensation you need for expenses and damages.