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Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years as a mode of transportation. They’re particularly ubiquitous in urban areas.
With the rise in popularity of electric scooters comes an increase in the number of accidents involving these vehicles. Keep reading to learn more about how common these accidents may be.
According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 271 electric scooter accident fatalities in the United States between 2014 and 2018. Additionally, the report estimated that there were 20 injuries per 100,000 trips taken on an electric scooter.
One of the main reasons electric scooter accidents are common is lack of regulation and safety guidelines. Unlike traditional modes of transportation, such as cars and bicycles, in some cities, there are no licensing requirements for electric scooters (although some jurisdictions require riders to have driver’s licenses). Additionally, many cities do not have designated bike lanes or pathways for electric scooters, which can result in riders sharing the road with cars and other vehicles.
Another reason why electric scooter accidents are common is due to rider behavior. Many riders do not wear helmets, and some ride on sidewalks or in areas where electric scooters are prohibited. Additionally, riders may be inexperienced or unfamiliar with the rules of the road, which can lead to accidents.
Furthermore, the design of electric scooters can also contribute to accidents. Electric scooters are often compact and lightweight, which can make them unstable and prone to tipping over. Additionally, some electric scooters may have faulty brakes or other mechanical issues, which can lead to accidents.
In response to the increasing number of electric scooter accidents, some cities have implemented regulations and safety guidelines for electric scooter riders. For example, some cities require riders to wear helmets, and others have designated bike lanes for electric scooters. Additionally, some electric scooter companies have implemented safety features such as speed limits and automatic braking systems.
Despite the efforts to increase safety measures for electric scooters, accidents still occur. In some cases, accidents may result in serious injuries or death. It is important for riders to take safety precautions such as wearing helmets, following traffic laws, and avoiding crowded areas. Additionally, riders should be aware of the risks associated with electric scooters and use them responsibly.
Exercising caution is essential when riding an electric scooter. That said, even if you’re careful, it’s possible to be hurt in an electric scooter accident due to someone else’s negligence. Or, if you’re a pedestrian, bicyclist, or other individual sharing the road with an electric scooter rider, their carelessness could result in harm to you.
In either case, if you’ve been involved in an electric scooter accident due to the actions or negligence of another party in Pennsylvania, you may be eligible to receive financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. To discuss your potential legal options in these circumstances, review your case with a Philadelphia electric scooter accident lawyer at Solomon, Sherman, Gabay, Briskin & Sherman. Contact us online or call us at 215-665-1100 today to get started.