E-Scooters have become increasingly popular over the years. They provide metropolitan areas across the country with innovative modes of transportation. E-Scooter rental companies, like Lime, offer pedestrians a quick and convenient alternative to walking.
With the rise in popularity, you may be wondering if e-scooters are safe. Consumer Reports has provided research to support that e-scooter accidents are fairly common and injuries from e-scooter accidents can be serious.
E-Scooter Injuries
Injuries that are common with e-scooter accidents are wide-ranging, it really depends on the type and severity of the accident. With the body being exposed, injuries of all body parts are possible.
Brain injuries are some of the most severe that can occur in an e-scooter accident. Wearing a helmet can help to prevent this, however, many e-scooter users opt to go without. Traumatic brain injuries can have severe lifelong consequences.
How To Prevent a Scooter Accident
With this knowledge, it’s important to be proactive. There are steps you can take to keep yourself safe if you use an e-scooter.
Follow Traffic Laws
This one may come as a given, however, we feel it should still be mentioned. When operating an electric scooter, it’s important to follow traffic laws. This includes stopping at stop signs, riding in designated riding lanes, and avoiding distractions while driving.
Take Extra Caution or Avoid Using During Poor Conditions
If the weather is less than ideal, consider using an alternative mode of transportation. Wet roads can be dangerous for cars as well as e-scooters. The combination of the three can be extremely dangerous, especially if visibility is poor as well. If you must use an e-scooter during bad weather, use extreme caution.
Wear A Helmet and Appropriate Clothing/Shoewear
The option to drive an e-scooter is meant to be convenient. With that being said, you may find yourself out and about without a helmet or maybe you’re wearing a bad clothing choice. Consider skipping the e-scooter as clothing and footwear could have a negative impact on your safety. For example, high heels or open-toed shoes could result in severe foot injuries in the case of an accident.
Stay Vigilant
You could be doing everything right and still find yourself in an accident. It’s imperative to remain aware of your surroundings. You can only be responsible for your own actions on the road, but there are ways that you can improve your safety. Stay present and undistracted while operating an e-scooter.
If you have been involved in a scooter accident:
Seek legal advice as soon as you can if you’ve been involved in a scooter accident. Medical bills and lost wages can put you in a tough spot after an accident, but a skilled attorney can help you seek the compensation you need to move forward in life.
If you’d like to discuss your case and your options with one of our attorneys here at Pipas Law Group, contact us today for a free case evaluation.
