Scooters seem like an ideal solution for both convenience and saving money on transportation. Push a button and become mobile! Scooters, however, can present serious hazards, and scooter accidents cause severe injuries. According to a Richmond Times article, the United States has seen a huge increase in scooter accidents, especially in major cities. In fact, emergency room visits from scooter-related accidents have grown 161 percent since last year. If you were injured in a scooter accident, speak to a personal injury lawyer. Contact Emroch & Kilduff at (804) 358-1568 or email us to discuss your case and learn if Virginia law entitles you to compensation. Push and electric scooters present three major dangers: instability, no bodily protection from crashes, and low visibility in traffic.
Instability
One major problem with scooters is instability. Because scooters only have two small wheels, they’re simply not as stable as other modes of transportation. Most push scooters have solid wheels, not inflated tires, so they don’t absorb shock well. When they hit bumps and cracks, they can come to a sudden stop or flip over, hurling the rider to the ground.No Bodily Protection From Crashes
Like bicycles and motorcycles, scooters have no airbags or external protections, like metal frames. If scooter riders fail to wear protection, including helmets and protective clothing, absolutely nothing comes between them and the objects and surfaces that they hit in accidents. Scooter accidents can therefore produce catastrophic injuries.Less Visibility in Traffic
Scooters pose particular risks on busy roads or streets. Scooters are small, and not as visible as other vehicles. Scooters and their riders can easily hide in traffic, and may take more time to travel through the blind spots of other road users.Other Considerations and Warnings
- Good scooter maintenance. One factor in the increase in scooter accidents is poor maintenance. Deflated tires, defective motors, and worn brakes can all contribute to scooter accidents.
- Inexperienced riders. Newer scooter riders should not attempt to use their scooters in traffic, and should instead invest a significant amount of time in practicing in empty areas like parking lots and lightly used roads. Never underestimate the skills and experience needed to safely use a scooter in traffic.
- Uneven or rough surfaces. Sand, gravel, potholes, ice, speed bumps, and poorly maintained roads can easily cause accidents, even for experienced scooter riders. Scooter riders should remain vigilant to road conditions, and avoid uneven or rough surfaces whenever possible.
- Age appropriate. Children should only use scooters that are suitable for their ages, sizes, and skill levels. Three-wheeled scooters are often best for new scooter riders.
Steps to Take After a Scooter Accident
If you are in a scooter accident, and your injuries permit:- Check yourself for possible injuries and seek medical help, even if you’re unsure whether you were hurt. Some injuries take hours or days to manifest, so act to minimize any potential for harm to yourself.
- Contact the police to report the accident, and insist on getting a copy of the completed report. Such documentation is necessary for insurance purposes, as well as any potential personal injury claims.
- Take photos of the scene and any conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
- Record contact information of any witnesses, including names, phone numbers, and addresses.
