Micro Mobility has increasingly gained popularity around the world. It is especially common among young people in college towns and busy cities. They can take advantage of services that provide access to scooters and other micro-vehicles. Unfortunately, the rise in the use of these vehicles has also coincided with a surge in accidents in Massachusetts and other states. Scooter accidents have become so common that one Boston college threatened to ban e-scooters and other micro-EVs.
Kick-Scooters vs. Mopeds
People refer to two very different vehicles as scooters, so it’s essential to understand which one this article discusses. Small mopeds are often classified as scooters, but the ones discussed in this article are kick-scooters and their electric versions. Bird and Hubway are the two scooter-sharing or docking companies servicing most urban areas in Massachusetts. However, some people purchase and own individual scooters.
Common Causes of Scooter Accidents
Scooter accidents can occur for several reasons and each case may include a mix of contributing factors. Massachusetts uses a comparative negligence approach for handling personal injury cases, so scooter riders may still receive compensation even when partially liable. However, it affects the amount received.
Driver Distraction
Distracted drivers are a significant cause of accidents, especially regarding scooters and other smaller or slower vehicles. Cars can travel far distances within just a few seconds of a driver taking his or her eyes off the road to read a text message or discipline children in the backseat. Drivers also often do not take adequate precautions before turning, especially when those turns cross over bike and scooter lanes.
Rider Inexperience
Even experienced riders can sometimes make mistakes. For those unfamiliar with the dangers of riding a scooter, there is an even more significant risk of accidents. This is why all riders must understand basic safety practices, such as wearing a helmet and staying away from busy roads and intersections. Riders should also know the maximum speed and various ride settings of the scooters they use.
Poorly Marked Streets
The streets of Massachusetts are often not well-marked, especially in Boston. This can cause scooter riders to become confused or disoriented while navigating the roads. Confusion can lead to accidents because riders might focus more on finding a specific area versus the potential hazards around them.
Poor Weather Conditions
The weather conditions can also create hazards, such as slippery roads and difficulty judging the depth or severity of potholes. Rain and poor visibility can make it difficult for scooter riders to see their surroundings, increasing the likelihood of an accident. In addition, wet roads can cause the scooters to become harder to control or stop, which can lead to a crash.
Drunkenness
It’s important to remember that operating a scooter while intoxicated is illegal and can result in serious injuries or even death. Law enforcement officers may also issue tickets or fines. Drunk drivers create an even bigger safety problem. They drive larger, faster vehicles that can cause more damage if they collide with scooter riders.
The Dangers of Riding Scooters
Scooters are fun to ride and provide an affordable and convenient way to cover the last few miles of travel. Drivers pose the most significant risk to scooter riders, but some risks are inherent in using this micro vehicle.
Fewer Precautions
Despite sharing similar risks, scooter riders often do not take the same level of precautions as cyclists. One study in Washington, D.C., found that while more than 66% of cyclists wore helmets, only 2% of scooter riders did the same. This may stem from scooter riders being more likely to use a shared service, while cyclists often ride their own bikes and have full gear at home.
e-Scooter Speeds
Electric scooters can reach speeds up to 20 mph or more, which is fast enough to cause severe injuries if the rider crashes. This makes them more dangerous than regular kick-scooters. Riders must always remain aware of the speed and take necessary safety precautions.
Reduced Visibility
Scooter riders have even lower visibility than cyclists. The small size of a scooter makes it difficult for drivers and pedestrians to spot them on the road. This increases the risk of an accident, so riders should always be aware of their surroundings and use appropriate lights or reflective gear whenever possible.
Scooter Defects
Like any other vehicle, scooters occasionally suffer from mechanical issues that make them dangerous. Poorly maintained and defective scooters can have brakes that fail or handlebars that suddenly stop working. This can cause a rider to lose control of the vehicle, leading to an accident.
What To Do After a Scooter Accident
Knowing the steps to take afterward is crucial if you ever find yourself involved in a scooter accident. The following information offers only general guidance. Every situation is unique and only an attorney can provide specific legal advice based on a thorough understanding of your case.
Document the Scene
In the case of severe injuries, you might not have the opportunity to follow through with this step. However, if you can, consider taking pictures and videos of the scene. This includes your scooter, any other vehicles involved in the accident and anything else that may be relevant to your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
If you are not immediately taken to a hospital for treatment, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries can take time to manifest, so even if you don’t feel pain, it’s best to get checked by a doctor. Keep in mind that refusing medical care when offered could cause partial blame attributed to you if you later discover injuries made worse by not receiving medical care on time.
Follow the Doctor’s Orders
You may also receive partial blame for the extent of injuries if you do not follow the doctor’s orders. For example, if the doctor recommends taking a break from riding or taking time off from work, you should take these recommendations seriously. The insurance company might point out that your injuries would be less severe if you had, which could reduce the compensation they owe, even if you win.
Contact an Attorney
After a scooter accident, you should also contact an experienced attorney immediately. A lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure that medical bills and other expenses are correctly handled. They can also provide legal advice based on the details of your case and work hard toward a fair outcome.
File an Insurance Claim
After an accident, filing a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible is essential. This helps to protect you from financial losses that result from the accident. Ensure you provide accurate information about the incident and take pictures or videos if you have them. This will help build a strong case and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Why You Need an Attorney for Your Scooter Accident Case
Scooters may be fun, convenient and affordable, but they pose significant risks for riders. Introducing third-party companies, such as docking or rideshare companies, can significantly complicate the resolution process. An experienced attorney simplifies the various steps of navigating personal injury law, strengthens your case and defends your rights.
Our attorneys can assess your individual case, investigate third-party liability and submit a solid claim on your behalf. We provide advice and guidance throughout the process and pursue the maximum possible compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other related expenses. Contact Jason Stone Injury Lawyers to see how we can help.
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