Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer Washington DC
One newer mode of transportation has been gaining in popularity in the Washington DC area, electric scooters. Electric scooters, also called e-scooters, are stand-up scooters that are powered by a small electric motor. Users can rent the scooters at different kiosks around the district as a faster and more efficient way of getting around, especially for tourists. However, despite the benefits the electric scooters have, there is also the downside of accidents and injuries people suffer. If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident, contact an electric scooter accident lawyer Washington DC residents recommend.
Electric Scooter Accidents
One of the issues with riding an electric scooter is the surface that the user is riding on. If a user accidentally hits uneven pavement or a sidewalk crack, even at low speeds, they can lose control of the scooter and fall, especially if the user doesn’t have a lot of experience operating e-scooters. These falls can result in bruises, cuts, and broken bones. Some users have suffered very serious injuries including concussions and internal injuries. In these situations, if the hazard that causes the user to lose control of the scooter was a result of negligence on the part of a business or property owner, the victim may be able to pursue damages for the losses their injuries have caused.
A personal injury lawyer DC clients trust knows that another possible cause of e-scooter accidents is if the vehicle has defective parts. In these situations, the manufacturer could be liable for any injuries victims suffer because of the defect. For example, a couple of years ago, one of the country’s largest electric scooter companies, pulled thousands of its scooters from kiosks around the country because of an issue with the batteries smoldering or even catching fire. This defect could cause serious burn injuries in scooter users.
Another issue that prompted the same company to issue a warning to users was a technical issue that could result in “sudden excessive braking” while the scooter is in use. This issue could cause the user to flip over the handlebars of the e-scooter, resulting in serious or even fatal injuries if the victim sustained a traumatic brain injury.
Since electric scooters have become popular, there has been an uptick in emergency room admissions of people who use the scooter. In addition to the above types of accidents, other potential accidents involve vehicles striking the scooter, especially with the number of vehicle operators who continue to engage in dangerous driving behaviors, such as distracted driving and driving under the influence.
If you are involved in an electric scooter accident with a car or other vehicle, call the police and seek immediate medical attention, even if you think you have not been sustained any injuries. You may have suffered an injury with delayed symptoms, such as a concussion or internal injury, which could be dangerous if left untreated.
Your next step should be to call an experienced Washington DC electric scooter accident lawyer from the Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. to find out what legal options you may have.