Electronic scooters or E-scooters have jumped tremendously in popularity in recent years. E-scooters resemble a traditional Razor scooter that many of us had as a kid, but with their electric power, they can operate at up to about 15 miles per hour, depending on the model. In cities across the country, makers of e-scooters have started renting the devices out to users, while some people purchase the scooters for more permanent use. Despite their popularity, e-scooters have been linked to a high number of injuries like broken bones and concussions. A few e-scooter accidents have even resulted in death.
E-Scooters Accident Statistics
The first study to ever address the frequency of e-scooter accidents was just recently released. University of California Los Angeles researchers found that during a one year period, 250 people went to L.A. area emergency rooms for treatment of electronic scooter injuries. Most of the injuries were fairly minor, involving concussions and broken bones. A few injuries, however, required surgery and hospital stays. At least five patients had bleeding in the brain as a result of scooter accidents and three suffered from internal injuries. One patient had a compound fracture, in which the broken bone punctured through the skin. Only ten of the injured patients reported wearing a helmet.
Elsewhere across the country, at least three people have died in e-scooter related accidents. In Washington, D.C., a rider was struck by an SUV and died. In Dallas, a man suffered a major fall off a rental scooter and did not survive. Finally, in Cleveland, a woman riding an e-scooter was hit by an intoxicated driver.
As researchers continue to investigate e-scooter safety, those that want to use an electronic scooter should do so with caution. Scooter riders should always wear a helmet to protect their head from trauma. Use a scooter only in a safe location away from traffic. Be sure to take the time to learn to ride the device and never ride distracted. As time goes by, it is reasonable to assume litigation will arise involving e-scooters. Anyone injured while riding an e-scooter should contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
