While navigating our roadways, we encounter a diverse range of vehicles – cars, trucks, and motorcycles are commonplace. We understand the inherent dangers associated with traffic and driving. However, with the constant introduction of new technologies, a new set of vehicle accident and injury scenarios is emerging.
For instance, data indicates a concerning upward trend in micromobility-related injuries. Since 2017, these incidents have seen an estimated average increase of 21% annually.
Being involved in an accident with an unusual vehicle can be a confusing and stressful experience. It’s crucial to understand your rights and options in such situations. At Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers is well-versed in handling a wide range of cases, including those involving unconventional vehicles. If you have been injured in such an accident, we encourage you to contact us today for a free consultation.
Electric Scooters
Electric scooters have gained popularity in cities across the country, especially among youth aged 18 and younger. However, there are many reasons to be careful while riding around on them.
Firstly, scooters can travel at speed up to 15 miles per hour. Secondly, the people that rent them are usually not ready for that speed. Lastly, it’s also doubtful that they have ever been on an electric scooter before, and probably don’t have a helmet.
Injuries involving electric scooters are commonly caused by:
- Vehicles failing to see the scooters
- Slip and falls over improperly parked scooters and e-bikes
- Road hazards
- Product defect in the scooter
- Reckless or drunk driving
- Striking pedestrians or cyclists
Any one of these injuries may be the result of a negligent party. When you are the victim of negligence, determining the cause of a scooter-related injury is important for proving fault.
Electric Bikes
Electric bikes are especially popular outside of the U.S. Still, these types of bike have seen a continuous gain in popularity recently across the country.
This mode of transportation is especially popular in Switzerland, where they have kept an accurate watch on accident facts involving the bikes. Similar to electric scooters, these bikes go much faster than many anticipate.
According to their studies, 70% of injuries occur to males 40 years of age. This may be a connection between slower reflexes and the unanticipated speeds. Also, the force of impact is four times harder than falling off of a normal bike. Lastly, they are very quiet, similar to electric cars. Thus, other drivers are less likely to notice them.
Hoverboards
Hoverboards are basically self-balancing electric scooters without handlebars. This simplistic product design can increase the element of danger for new riders who may lose control and fall off or run into something/someone. Catching fire from spontaneous combustion is another safety concern with these devices.
Due to these potential dangers, reported hoverboard injuries have included concussions, breakages, and spine fractures.
In addition, since many children and teens show interest in using hoverboards, be sure to speak with your children about safety concerns. Also, supervise your children if they play with these electric skateboards, and make them wear a properly fitting helmet and other safety gear.
Accident Facts Say: USE Personal Injury Lawyers
If you are injured in an accident involving an unusual vehicle because of another’s negligent or reckless actions, reach out for a free consultation with Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys. We are available to chat any time of the week at 844-977-1900 or online through our contact form and our LiveChat feature.
Our offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. We are here for you when you need us most!