Electric scooters have become a popular way to navigate busy cities, especially for those short trips that are too far to walk but not worth the hassle of public transportation. Companies like Lime and Bird have made e-scooter sharing easy, allowing riders to zip around on small, battery-powered scooters with just a smartphone. But with this convenience comes significant risks. Accor ding to Consumer Reports, scooter-related incidents have injured more than 1,500 people in the United States since late 2017. Many of these injuries stem from defective scooter designs, faulty components, or inadequate safety warnings—issues that could lead to product liability claims. If you’ve been injured due to an e-scooter malfunction or defect, an electric scooter accident lawyer at Ethen Ostroff Law can help you recover compensation.
Electric Scooters and How They Work
Electric scooters, or e-scooters, are lightweight, two-wheeled vehicles powered by rechargeable batteries. They’re a quick, easy, and eco-friendly way to get around the city, especially for short trips. You stand on a platform, steer with handlebars, and let the electric motor do the work. Some models even recharge the battery slightly when you brake, thanks to a feature called regenerative braking.
E-scooters are popular because they’re practical and better for the environment. Depending on the model, they can go anywhere from 12 to over 60 miles on one charge, with speeds up to 25 mph. They don’t use gas or produce emissions, making them a cleaner option for urban travel. Plus, they’re affordable to run and require little maintenance. Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or just riding for fun, e-scooters make city travel simple and efficient.
Popular Electric Scooters in the U.S.
Electric scooters have become a popular choice for quick and eco-friendly transportation. Some of the widely used options include:
- Segway Ninebot KickScooter Max G30LP: offering over 20 miles of range and a top speed of 15.5 mph, perfect for daily commutes.
- Razor E100: a budget-friendly, kid-friendly model with a 10-mile range and a 10 mph top speed, great for younger riders.
- Unagi Model One Voyager: known for its lightweight design and style, with a 20-mile range and 20 mph top speed.
- Apollo City: featuring impressive performance with a 43-mile range, 32 mph top speed, and advanced features like full suspension and puncture-proof tires.
- Hiboy S2: an affordable option with a 17-mile range, 19 mph top speed, and reliable braking systems.
- Gotrax APEX LE: combining practicality and sleek design, with a 15-mile range and a top speed of 15.5 mph.
- NIU KQi Air: lightweight and secure, offering a 20-mile range, 20 mph top speed, and anti-theft features.
These scooters cater to various needs, from budget-friendly options to high-performance models for commuting or recreational use.
Popular E-Scooter Share Services in the U.S.
E-scooter sharing services have become a popular way to get around cities quickly and sustainably. Some of the leading options include:
- Lime: offering dockless e-scooters with a flat unlocking fee and per-minute rate, available in over 200 cities worldwide.
- Byrd: a smaller but reliable service focused on urban accessibility, operating on a pay-per-ride basis through its app.
- Bolt: an Estonian company expanding into the U.S. market, providing e-scooter rentals through its app in multiple cities.
- Lyft: known for its ride-hailing services, also offers e-scooter rentals in select cities through its app, integrating various transport options.
- Razor: famous for kick scooters, also rents electric scooters through partnerships with other rental services or municipalities.
- Scoot: mainly operating in San Francisco, offers e-scooters and mopeds with an emphasis on safety and community engagement.
- Skip: acquired by Lyft, provides reliable scooter rentals through the Lyft app, focusing on urban convenience.
- Spin: owned by Ford, offers e-scooter rentals in various cities with easy access via its app.
These e-scooter services provide convenient, eco-friendly transportation options, making them a great choice for short trips around the city.
What Is the Injury Rate for Electric Scooters?
Recent studies show a sharp rise in injuries related to e-scooters in the U.S. Here are some important statistics:
- E-scooter injuries rose 45%, from 8,566 in 2017 to 56,847 in 2022.
- Hospitalizations from e-scooter accidents increased, reaching about 6,317 in 2022 compared to 791 in 2017.
- E-bike injuries surged from 751 in 2017 to 23,493 in 2022.
- E-scooter riders tend to be older, with a median age of 30, and are less likely to wear helmets.
- E-scooter riders often suffer internal injuries, while traditional scooter riders more commonly injure their arms and hands.
- Alcohol use is a key factor in many e-scooter accidents, particularly among young men.
- Between 2017 and 2022, around 233 deaths were linked to micromobility devices, including 164 related to e-scooters.
Common E-scooter Injuries
E-scooter accidents can lead to serious injuries, even at low speeds. Here are the most common types of injuries:
- Fractures: to the wrist, elbow, and clavicle.
- Contusions and abrasions: typically on the arms, legs, and face.
- Head injuries: like concussions and TBIs, especially due to low helmet use.
- Upper extremity injuries: including fractures and soft tissue damage to the wrist, elbow, and shoulder.
- Lower extremity injuries: like sprained ankles and fractures.
- Spinal cord injuries: though less common, with potential long-term effects.
- Dental injuries: often from face impacts in a fall.
- Internal organ injuries: from blunt force trauma.
- Burns: from friction or electrical components in some accidents.
With e-scooter use growing, it’s important to wear helmets and stay alert while riding.
Brake Issues in Lime Scooters Linked to Accidents and Injuries
Lime has urged riders to be cautious due to a software glitch causing its electric scooters to brake unexpectedly, particularly when going downhill at high speeds. The issue, caused by a bug in the scooter’s firmware, led to sudden and excessive braking, especially when hitting obstacles like potholes. This forceful braking could cause the scooter to stop abruptly, creating a dangerous situation.
While the problem was rare, affecting less than 0.0045% of all rides, it resulted in injuries. Lime updated its software to fix the issue, which significantly reduced the number of braking incidents. However, the company advised riders to check the brakes by giving them a firm squeeze before starting their ride to ensure they were working properly.
Reports from New Zealand and Switzerland suggested that the issue might have been more widespread. In Auckland, 155 incidents were reported, with 30 people injured. In Switzerland, several riders were hurt by the malfunctioning brakes, prompting Lime to remove hundreds of scooters from circulation. In addition, a rider in Texas sued Lime after being injured by the glitch, suffering a broken arm and shoulder strain when his scooter’s brakes locked up.
Last summer, Lime also removed thousands of scooters from circulation in California after discovering a potential fire risk with certain batteries.
Common E-Scooter Malfunctions That Lead to Injuries
Electric scooters can malfunction in ways that lead to serious accidents and injuries. With the rapid spread of dockless e-scooters, quality control has sometimes been overlooked, resulting in defective models that can cause harm. Here are 10 common malfunctions that pose a risk:
- Loose handlebars: affecting control and balance.
- Handlebars detaching: causing a loss of control.
- Sticky throttle: leading to unpredictable acceleration.
- Post detaching: resulting in falls.
- Front wheel rotating 90 degrees: causing crashes.
- Unexpected brake activation: leading to sudden stops.
- Brakes failing: to slow the scooter properly, especially downhill.
- Shutting down mid-ride: due to battery issues or geo-fences.
- Deck breaking under pressure: making control difficult.
- Batteries catching fire: causing crashes or burns.
Riders should be cautious and report any malfunctions right away to stay safe.
Effective Ways to Prevent Electric Scooter Accidents and Injuries
E-scooters offer convenience, but they also come with risks. Following the right safety tips can help prevent accidents and ensure safer rides. Here are some ways to stay safe on your e-scooter:
- Always wear a helmet: to reduce the risk of head injuries like concussions.
- Follow local traffic laws: including stopping at red lights and riding in bike lanes.
- Inspect your scooter before riding: to check brakes, tires, and for any loose parts.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: to avoid obstacles like potholes or cracks.
- Ride at a safe speed: adjusting for traffic conditions and terrain.
- Avoid riding under the influence: of alcohol or drugs to stay alert and in control.
- Wear additional protective gear: like knee pads, elbow pads, and gloves for extra safety.
- Ride during daylight hours: for better visibility and to spot potential hazards.
- Practice safe braking techniques: to stop gradually and avoid losing control.
- Stay off wet or slippery surfaces: to prevent skidding and accidents.
- Be predictable on the road: by signaling your intentions and using the bell or horn.
- Keep both hands on the handlebars: for better balance and control.
- Slow down: in dangerous road conditions and avoid sudden bumps.
- Don’t carry a passenger: unless the scooter is designed for it.
What to Do in Case of an E-Scooter Accident
Accidents involving e-scooters can happen quickly, so knowing what to do is crucial. Follow these steps if you’re involved in an accident:
- Ensure safety by moving to a safe area.
- Call 911 if there are injuries or medical needs.
- Contact police and get an accident report.
- Document the scene with photos and videos.
- Exchange information with involved parties and witnesses.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.
- Preserve evidence by not repairing your scooter immediately.
- Contact an electric scooter accident lawyer if serious injuries or negligence are involved.
Product Liability and E-Scooter Malfunctions
E-scooters are widely used for convenience, but they come with risks due to possible malfunctions. When these issues result in injuries, riders may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit. E-scooter companies often try to avoid responsibility by blaming the rider or other factors. However, these companies should be held accountable for any negligence that leads to harm.
Common E-Scooter Defects Leading to Product Liability Claims
E-scooters are a popular mode of transportation, but they come with risks due to potential defects. When these malfunctions cause injury, victims may have grounds for a product liability claim. Here are common defects that can lead to accidents:
- Malfunctioning brakes that cause sudden stops or prevent stopping.
- Sticky throttles causing uncontrollable acceleration.
- Loose or detaching handlebars leading to loss of control.
- Faulty batteries that overheat or explode.
- Broken or defective wheels causing instability.
- Baseboard breakage causing loss of balance.
- Software glitches affecting braking or acceleration.
- Non-working lights or indicators reducing visibility.
- Poor maintenance practices leading to undetected defects.
If an injury occurs due to a defect, consulting an electric scooter accident lawyer can help seek compensation for injuries caused by these malfunctions.
Lawsuits Against E-Scooter Companies
Several lawsuits have been filed against e-scooter companies like Bird and Lime over safety concerns and how they handle defects. Here are three key cases:
- Class Action Lawsuit (2018): A class action was filed in California against Bird and Lime, accusing them of not fixing design issues and failing to give clear safety instructions. The lawsuit claimed their business practices made the scooters dangerous for riders and pedestrians.
- Ashanti Jordan Case (2019): After a crash with a Lime scooter, Jordan suffered a serious brain injury. Her mother sued, saying the scooter’s GPS system was to blame for the accident, raising concerns about the risks of self-driving scooters.
- Jeremiah Mahoney Lawsuit (2019): Mahoney was riding a Lime scooter in Austin when the wheels suddenly locked, causing him to fall and injure his arm and shoulder. He sued Lime, saying the company was negligent in checking their scooters and warning customers about the risks. He is asking for $10,000 in damages.
These cases show the growing legal challenges e-scooter companies face as they deal with safety and liability issues in the fast-growing transportation market.
Can You Sue Lime Scooter?
Yes, you can sue Lime if you’ve been injured due to a defective or unsafe scooter. Here are some scenarios that could lead to an e-scooter lawsuit:
- Product defects like faulty brakes or malfunctioning throttles.
- Negligent maintenance leading to unsafe scooters.
- Inadequate safety measures or lack of clear instructions.
- Improper scooter placement causing hazards.
If you’ve been injured due to Lime’s negligence, consult with an electric scooter accident lawyer to explore your legal options.
Steps to Filing an E-Scooter Accident Lawsuit
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident due to a product malfunction, pursuing an e-scooter accident lawsuit can help you seek compensation for your injuries. Here’s a simplified guide:
- Seek medical attention immediately for any injuries and document them for your case.
- Gather evidence from the scene, including photos, witness statements, and police reports.
- Consult a personal injury attorney experienced in product liability cases involving e-scooters.
- Your e-scooter accident attorney will file a complaint with the court outlining your claims and compensation sought.
- The defendant will be formally notified of the lawsuit by your attorney.
- Both parties will exchange evidence and information during the discovery phase.
- Your electric scooter accident lawyer will negotiate with the defendant’s insurer to reach a fair settlement.
- If necessary, your e-scooter accident attorney will prepare your case for trial with expert witnesses and supporting evidence.
- During the trial, the judge or jury will decide on liability and compensation.
Consult with an electric scooter accident lawyer to successfully navigating these steps.
Identifying Responsible Parties for Your E-Scooter Injury Claims
When seeking compensation for an e-scooter injury, it’s important to identify who may be at fault. Potentially liable parties could include:
- The manufacturer if a design flaw or defect in production caused the malfunction.
- The rental company if they failed to properly maintain the scooter or rented out a faulty unit.
- Other parties, such as negligent drivers or local governments if unsafe road conditions contributed to the accident.
Proving an E-Scooter Product Liability Claim
To successfully file a product liability lawsuit for an e-scooter accident, the following must be proven:
- The scooter had a defect, whether in its design, manufacturing, or marketing.
- The defect was present when the scooter was sold or rented.
- The rider used the scooter as intended or in a foreseeable way.
- The defect directly caused the injuries sustained in the accident.
These elements are crucial for establishing liability and seeking compensation for injuries caused by faulty e-scooters.
Types of Damages in an E-Scooter Lawsuit
If you’re pursuing an e-scooter accident lawsuit after an accident, you may be able to claim several types of damages to compensate for your losses. These include:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, and future treatment costs.
- Lost wages from time off work due to injury and potential future lost earnings.
- Property damage for repairs or replacement of your damaged e-scooter.
- Pain and suffering for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Emotional distress for conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
- Loss of enjoyment of life if your injury impacts daily activities or hobbies.
- Punitive damages for reckless or intentional actions.
- Legal fees incurred during the lawsuit process.
An electric scooter accident lawyer can help you identify and pursue these damages.
Electric Scooter Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident due to malfunction or negligence, hiring an experienced electric scooter accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of success. Here’s how they can assist:
- Expert knowledge of e-scooter laws
- Investigating and establishing negligence
- Gathering evidence like police reports and witness statements
- Negotiating with insurance companies for fair compensation
- Preparing for litigation if a settlement can’t be reached
- Accurately calculating damages for medical costs and lost wages
- Working on a contingency fee basis
An experienced electric scooter accident lawyer can guide you through the complexities of e-scooter injury claims, giving you the best chance for fair compensation and justice.
Hire an Ethen Ostroff Law Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer
After an e-scooter accident, securing an experienced attorney who specializes in product liability cases is essential for navigating the legal process. E-scooter companies often delay addressing dangerous defects, but an electric scooter accident lawyer can take immediate action to file a claim on your behalf. At Ethen Ostroff Law, we offer a free case evaluation and work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you don’t pay unless we win your e-scooter accident lawsuit. Let’s fight for the compensation you deserve. Call now.
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