In the past several years, electric bikes and scooters have soared in popularity across the US. People of all ages enjoy using the micromobility vehicles for a variety of reasons, from commuting to work to enjoying recreational time outdoors. Electric bikes and scooters offer convenient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective transportation, especially in urban areas. Their small size coupled with their speed make them a great option to avoid traffic congestion while also reducing one’s carbon footprint.
While convenient, micromobility vehicles can also be dangerous.
The Danger of Micromobility Vehicles
With their increase in popularity and usage, there has been a rise in the number of accidents and injuries inflicted from usage.
Researchers from the University of California San Francisco looked at the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) data and found that e-bike injuries in the US went from 751 yearly cases in 2017 to nearly 23,500 in 2022, this is an increase of more than 3000%. Similarly, e-scooter injuries went from just over 8,500 in 2017 to nearly 57,000 in 2022.
Common Causes of Accidents Involving E-Bikes and Scooters
Accidents involving micromobility vehicles can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:
- Manufacturer error – defects in the vehicle’s design or during the manufacturing process may cause issues such as brake malfunction, electrical failures, structural weakness, and more. These issues can lead to loss of control, ultimately causing the rider to be involved in an accident.
- Drunk drivers – when other motorists on the road drive while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs they can pose a significant risk to micromobility vehicle riders.
- DUIs – micromobility vehicle riders who operate their vehicles under the influence of drugs or alcohol experience reduced coordination and reaction times, which can make it difficult to safely navigate the roads and increases their risk of being involved in an accident.
- Poor road conditions – elements such as uneven pavement, potholes, loose debris, and lack of proper signage can cause hazardous conditions for micromobility vehicle users and may cause them to lose balance, swerve, or crash.
- Car accidents – cars and other vehicles on the road may not see micromobility vehicles, especially at intersections, and may crash into them. Collisions with cars are one of the most common and serious causes of injury for micromobility vehicle users. When analyzing e-bike fatalities, motor vehicle accidents is the most common cause of death.
- Lack of personal protection (helmets) – when micromobility vehicle users do not wear helmets or other protective gear, they significantly increase their risk of serious injury in case of an accident.
Common Injuries Caused by Electric Bike and Scooter Accidents
Electric bike and scooter accidents can inflict a range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. Because of the relatively high-speed capabilities of the vehicles and their lack of physical protection provided for riders, the injuries caused often require medical attention and can take significant time to recover from.
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Lacerations and abrasions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Internal injuries
- Dental and facial injuries
- Psychological trauma
Filing An E-Bike or E-Scooter Claim
Singleton Schreiber is a personal injury law firm, and we are currently accepting e-bike and scooter claims. If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident involving micromobility vehicles, contact our office today to schedule your free consultation.