Folks are enjoying the latest public transportation craze to the hit the streets in many big cities across the country. From the beaches of Los Angeles to the big skyscrapers of New York, people from young to old are using these convenient and cheap forms of local transportation.
With so many new electric scooters and riders on the streets and public sidewalks there’s bound to be some accidents. In fact, personal injuries and even deaths from electric scooters accidents are rising. In Los Angeles, the first conviction was handed out for a rider who struck a pedestrian while riding their electric scooter drunk. He pleads no contest to a couple of misdemeanor accounts including hit and runs. In the nation’s capital, a rider was killed when he was struck by an SUV.
It can happen without a moment’s notice. One minute you’re riding along and having fun, the next you could be injured in a terrible accident. Recently in San Diego, a rider was severely injured when her scooter wouldn’t slow down and she lost control. She believes if she hadn’t crashed while going downhill that would have been killed by oncoming traffic.
A class-action lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles on behalf of nine folks that were injured by electric scooters. Insurance companies believe more claims will come as a result of accidents by electric scooters. Since the filing, an additional 75 people who have been injured have joined.
As more accidents on electric scooters happen, there will more potential for fatalities. Ranker has set up a page to list electric scooter accidents and deaths.
What to do if you are hit by an electric scooter rider?
* Check for any injuries that may require medical attention
* Collect evidence and insurance information from rider
* Call police if a report or charges are required to be filed
* See a doctor and have a physical exam to document any medical concerns
* Contact a personal injury lawyer to help file claims or collect from the insurance company
What to do if you are hit while riding an electric scooter?
* Check for injuries that may require immediate medical attention or call paramedics
* Collect evidence and insurance information from the driver
* Call the police to file a report or charges if required
* See a doctor and have a physical exam to document any medical concerns
* Contact a personal injury lawyer to help file claims or collect from the insurance company
As many local cities are still trying to figure out how to regulate and maintain these highly-demanded motorized vehicles, folks have to take caution and be aware of their surroundings. It’s smart to obey all local laws and only use an electric scooter in a safe and efficient manner.
For help with any scooter related accidents or injuries, contact a professional personal injury lawyer today.