Be Careful Out There, E-Scooter Riders

E-scooters have swiftly become a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, particularly in bustling urban environments like Phoenix. Their accessibility, ease of use, and ability to swiftly navigate through traffic have made them a favored choice for short commutes and errands. The arid climate and flat terrain of Phoenix make e-scooters an even more attractive option for many residents, allowing them to effortlessly cover distances that may have been dangerous to walk in, given the heat of the summer months. However, riders need to be acutely aware of the risks and potential injuries associated with e-scooter operation.

What are the risks of operating an e-scooter?

Operating e-scooters can offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate urban environments. However, it’s important to recognize that e-scooter operators face a range of risks that require careful consideration and responsible riding practices.

Some of the unique risks that e-scooter operators may encounter include:

• Collisions with vehicles: E-scooters share the road with larger vehicles, and collisions can occur due to differences in speed and visibility. E-scooter operators might be less noticeable to drivers, increasing the risk of accidents at intersections and on roadways.
• Uneven surfaces: Urban streets and sidewalks often have uneven surfaces, potholes, and obstacles that can lead to sudden jolts or loss of control. E-scooter riders need to stay vigilant to avoid accidents caused by these hazards.
• Pedestrian collisions: E-scooters are often ridden on sidewalks or in areas with pedestrians. Collisions between e-scooter operators and pedestrians can result in injuries to both parties.
• Lack of protective gear: Many e-scooter riders do not wear helmets or protective gear, even though accidents can result in head injuries, fractures, and other serious harm.
• Inexperienced riders: Inexperienced riders might lack the skills to handle the e-scooter effectively, leading to accidents caused by poor maneuvering or improper braking techniques.
• Weather conditions: Wet or slippery surfaces can reduce traction, making it more challenging to control an e-scooter and increasing the risk of skidding or falling.
• Distracted riding: Just like distracted driving, distracted riding—such as using a smartphone or wearing headphones—can impair the operator’s attention, reaction time, and overall safety.
• Rider behavior: Risky behavior such as speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, or performing stunts can lead to accidents and injuries.
• Parking hazards: Improperly parked e-scooters can create obstacles for pedestrians and lead to tripping hazards.
• Limited visibility: E-scooter operators might not be as visible as larger vehicles, especially at night or in low-light conditions, increasing the risk of accidents with other road users.
• Mechanical failures: E-scooters can experience mechanical failures due to wear and tear, which might lead to accidents if not properly maintained.
• E-scooter design: Some e-scooters have small wheels and less stability, which can make them more susceptible to accidents caused by obstacles or sudden movements.

To mitigate these risks, responsible e-scooter riding practices are essential. This includes wearing appropriate protective gear, following traffic rules and signals, avoiding distractions, using designated paths when available, and riding within your skill level. Being aware of your surroundings, respecting pedestrians and other road users, and conducting regular safety checks on the e-scooter can all contribute to a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.

What injuries can Phoenix e-scooter operators sustain?

Operating e-scooters can be a convenient mode of transportation, but it’s important to be aware of the types of injuries that e-scooter operators commonly sustain. Due to the nature of e-scooter riding and the urban environment in which they are often used, certain injuries are more prevalent.

Common types of injuries that e-scooter operators may experience include:

• Brain injuries: Head injuries are a significant concern for e-scooter operators, especially those who do not wear helmets. In the event of a collision or fall, head injuries can range from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries, which can have lasting cognitive, physical, and emotional effects.
• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs): In more severe accidents, spinal injuries can occur, including herniated discs, fractures, or nerve damage.
• Fractures: Accidents involving e-scooters can result in fractures and broken bones, particularly to the wrists, arms, collarbones, and ankles. These injuries often occur due to the instinctive reaction to use the hands to break a fall.
• Road rash and abrasions: Falls from e-scooters can lead to road rash, which is the scraping of the skin against the ground. Abrasions, bruises, and cuts are common injuries due to the impact with pavement and other hard surfaces.
• Facial injuries: Without protective gear, facial injuries such as cuts, bruises, and abrasions can result from impacts with the ground or objects.
• Injuries to extremities: E-scooter operators might attempt to brace themselves using their hands, leading to hand and wrist injuries. Additionally, falls can result in injuries to the knees, elbows, and shoulders.
• Nerve damage: High-impact falls can lead to nerve damage, causing tingling, numbness, or weakness in affected areas.
• Internal injuries: Severe collisions can result in internal injuries such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, or bruising.

Fatalities in e-scooter accidents are not uncommon. As the rider is hardly as protected as a person in a typical vehicle, catastrophic injuries are far more likely for the rider than the driver of the car or truck. The rider may suffer such injuries that lead them to die there at the scene, or even days later. When this happens, filing a wrongful death lawsuit may be your best option. You are already suffering the excruciating loss of a loved one; you do not deserve to suffer financially when considering hospital bills, and funeral and burial costs. Two of our partners are Board Certified Specialists in Wrongful Death Litigation; we understand exactly how challenging these cases can be, and the struggles survivors face. We promise you honest, open, and compassionate counsel about your options.

While these devices offer enjoyable and efficient transportation options, it’s crucial not to underestimate the potential hazards that come hand-in-hand when operating them. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence while riding your e-scooter in Phoenix or Tempe, Plattner Verderame, P.C. is here to assist you. We possess the experience to handle cases of this nature. You shouldn’t have to endure financial burdens on top of physical and emotional injuries. Allow us to help. Reach out to schedule a free consultation today by calling our offices in Phoenix or Tempe, or simply visit our contact page.