Electric Scooter-Related Collisions Becoming More Common

As many people in Arizona explore alternative forms of transportation, the use of electric scooters has become a popular and convenient way to get around town. However, along with the growing use of e-scooters comes the likelihood of collisions and injuries.

Electric Scooters in Arizona

The benefits of scooters on our roadways is that they cut down on vehicle use, reduce traffic, and they can be operated for a fraction of the costs associated with driving a car. However, since scooters travel at a rate much faster than pedestrians, scooter drivers often create a hazard for those walking on city streets. Like many cities throughout the United States, Phoenix is continuing to evaluate the use of scooters and is attempting to find a balance between the potential benefits and the established dangers of electric scooter use.

Can Electric Scooters Be Dangerous?

When those riding scooters are traveling at speeds up to 20 mph on congested streets, navigating obstacles on our roadways, or riding on uneven surfaces, all these occurrences can result in collisions with pedestrians and other vehicles. Those involved in scooter collisions may be more likely to sustain serious injuries than those involved in automobile accidents. When a collision occurs on a scooter, the victim is exposed and doesn’t benefit from being protected inside a vehicle. Even when a scooter accident doesn’t involve a motor vehicle, a fall from a scooter can produce severe injury when the rider makes contact with the pavement.

Electric Scooter Accident Statistics

According to a recent evaluation by the Center for Disease Control (CDC):

• The scooter injury rate was 14.3 per 100,000 trips
• The most common injuries associated with scooters are head injuries at 45 percent of all injuries
• The second most common injury involved upper extremity fractures at 27 percent
• Only 1 out of 190 injured scooter riders was wearing a helmet

SCOOTER COMPANIES ENCOURAGE SAFE RIDING

Most scooter companies are actively promoting rider safety, and in order to rent a scooter, most companies now require that the rider be at least 18-years-old and have a valid driver’s license. Some companies also require that riders view their safety videos before renting a scooter.

SCOOTER SAFETY TIPS

Riding a scooter around any metropolitan area is quick and easy, but it is important for riders to follow traffic laws and be aware of their limited visibility to the drivers of trucks and cars who are sharing the roadways. Follow the scooter safety tips below to minimize collisions and avoid injuries:

• Ride defensively
• Follow all traffic laws
• Wear bright-colored clothing
• Wear reflective gear for maximum visibility
• Avoid riding at night
• Wear protective gear (Helmet, gloves, eyewear)
• Know where you can ride your scooter on the roadway
• Make sure your scooter is well-maintained and functioning properly

Proving Negligence in a Scooter Accident in Arizona

In Arizona, the negligent party in a scooter accident is the person whose actions caused the collision.

To receive compensation, the victim must bring a personal injury claim against the other party, and prove that the other party’s actions caused the collision.

A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Assist You

An essential component of any personal injury claim is proving negligence. The scene of the accident can help you prove your case. Your attorney can accumulate evidence from the accident site and help you to obtain testimony from those who witnessed the incident. The person who is at fault for the scooter accident will pay the victims for their damages per Arizona law. Damages can include your medical bills, lost income, property damage, and your pain and suffering.

Contact Burg Simpson’s Arizona Personal Injury Attorneys Now

Electric scooters can be a great option when traveling for short distances around town, but a fall from one can also cause severe injuries. If you have been involved in a scooter collision with a motor vehicle driver or a pedestrian, contact us at Burg Simpson for a free consultation to determine the best course of action.

Burg Simpson’s team of personal injury attorneys has over four decades of experience handling personal injury cases. We are experienced, trial-ready, and prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Burg Simpson today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your rights and options per Arizona law. Don’t try to navigate the legal process on your own. Contact the personal injury experts at Burg Simpson by calling (602) 777-7000 now.