As Electric Scooter Usage Rises in Major Cities, So Do Emergency Room Visits

Electric Scooter usage is rising across major cities in the U.S and so are emergency room visits. These scooters are part of a ride-sharing program offered in many major cities. Although these programs can benefit the public, they are quickly becoming dangerous. Little training, lack of safety features and defective scooters are sending more and more people to emergency rooms every day.

Doctors are seeing serious injuries when it comes to scooter accidents. Broken bones, facial lacerations and blunt force trauma to the head have all been associated with victims involved in scooter accidents.

Experts believe the accidents are occurring mainly due to defective scooters and lack of helmets.  Riders are not required to wear a helmet and the only rules to rent one are that you are 18 years old and have a smart phone. (Some companies require you to take a brief course on their app before checking out the scooter.)

Many riders and mechanics say the scooters are not being maintained the way that they should.   Scooters are left out overnight and problems remain unknown until a rider experiences the issue.  This is too late and often after an injury has already occurred.

Although ride sharing programs are a positive for the community, it is important that users practice proper safety precautions and consider wearing a helmet. It is also important for businesses who supply the scooters to maintain them and test them regularly.

Recovering compensation after an injury from a defective product

It is a manufacturer’s responsibility to make sure their products are safe for consumers.  If someone is injured due to a defective product, a product liability claim may exist.  A claim may be pursued to pay for damages caused by the defective product such as medical bills, missed time from work and pain and suffering.

If you or someone you know has been seriously injured by a defective product, it is important to contact a personal injury attorney to review your rights.  Call 412-661-1400 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Pittsburgh at Berger and Green today.

Source: Washington Post, “Scooter use is rising in major cities. So are trips to the emergency room.”