The use of e-scooters has risen exponentially in recent years, with many considering them a fun ride. While that may be true, they are also extremely dangerous, particularly for inexperienced riders navigating rush hour traffic. Currently, there is no data or official number on e-scooter deaths, but fatal accidents have been recorded.
According to an analysis by the University of California, “249 people involved in e-scooter accidents required medical care.” Also, according to Forbes, “the most common accidents noted were falls, collisions with objects, and riders getting struck by moving vehicles or objects. 40 percent of the resulting injuries were bone fractures, 31.7 percent were head trauma, and 27.7 percent involved cuts, sprains, and bruises.”
There are many dangers associated with e-scooters that every e-scooter owner and rider should be aware of. If you know anyone with an e-scooter, you might find this helpful article as we examine some of these dangers.
Higher Risk of Collision
Although e-scooters are designed to be drivable on roads, many users prefer to use them on sidewalks and in pedestrian areas. Moreover, these electric scooters have better safety features. Using an e-scooter on a sidewalk poses a great danger to the rider and pedestrians.
E-scooters do not have the safety features that most motor vehicles have; these include anti-lock brakes. That means it can take time to stop quickly when the need arises. As such, if there happens to be a collision between the scooter and an object, one could get seriously injured.
If you enjoy riding their e-scooter on the sidewalk, you should exercise more caution. Contrarily, if you are a pedestrian, look for e-scooters on sidewalks, as they are now a common sight.
They Tend to Be Unstable
E-scooters require a motor to operate; in other words, they are motorized vehicles. However, many e-scooters do not have powerful engines, and the absence of a robust and stable motor can make them unstable. Their unstable nature is more expressed by taking sharp turns or going at high speeds.
With e-scooters, losing control of your e-scooter can result in a hard fall and serious injuries. To keep this from happening, maintain a safe speed, especially if you are not an experienced rider. Also, pay closer attention to your surroundings as you ride; this way, you can react quickly when the need arises.
No Physical Protection
Unlike motor vehicles, e-scooters do not come with physical protection, meaning an accident can be severe quickly. If an e-scooter rider is involved in a motor vehicle accident, they will likely sustain more injuries than the motorist. Thus, in order to protect yourself from the potential dangers on the road, you should always wear a helmet.
Wearing a helmet and other protective gear when riding an e-scooter helps mitigate the injuries sustained should there be an accident. Also, you can take other precautionary measures to ensure that an accident does not occur in the first place. For instance, avoid riding in bad weather conditions or areas known for heavy traffic.
Conclusion
These are some of the most common risks and dangers associated with e-scooters that every rider should watch out for. By being aware of these risks and taking preventive measures, there will be a reduction in the risks associated with e-scooters. “It is good for riders to remember that e-scooters are motorized vehicles and to treat them as such by riding safely and being aware of their surroundings,” says injury attorney Geoff Brown of Bordas & Bordas.
Media Information:
Bordas & Bordas
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
(412) 502-5000
https://www.bordaslaw.com/
