As personal injury attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand how the growing popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes has transformed urban mobility. These electric-powered rides are convenient, eco-friendly, and fun. However, they’re not without risks. Accidents involving e-scooters and e-bikes have been on the rise, leading to serious injuries for riders and pedestrians alike.
In this blog, we’ll discuss essential safety tips for riding e-scooters and e-bikes and outline the critical steps to take if you’re ever injured while operating one.
E-Scooter and E-Bike Safety Tips
- Wear Protective Gear: The most important piece of equipment is a helmet. While some areas do not mandate helmet use, wearing one significantly reduces the risk of traumatic brain injuries. Consider elbow pads, knee pads, and reflective clothing, especially if you’re riding at night.
- Obey Traffic Laws: E-scooters and e-bikes are often considered vehicles under the law. This means you’re required to follow traffic signals, yield to pedestrians, and avoid riding on sidewalks where prohibited.
- Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions: Just like driving a car, riding an e-scooter or e-bike requires your full attention. Avoid using your phone, listening to loud music, or engaging in other distractions while riding.
- Check Your Ride Before Use: Before hopping on, inspect the brakes, tires, and battery life of your e-scooter or e-bike. Defective equipment can lead to avoidable accidents.
- Ride Defensively: Be aware of cars, trucks, and pedestrians. Many drivers are not accustomed to watching for e-scooters and e-bikes, especially at intersections. Assume other road users do not see you and ride accordingly.
- Be Mindful of Road Conditions: Wet, icy, or uneven surfaces can be especially hazardous for small wheels. Avoid potholes, grates, and debris that could cause you to lose control.
What to Do If You’re Injured While Operating an E-Scooter or E-Bike
Accidents can happen even if you follow all the safety rules. If you’re injured while riding an e-scooter or e-bike, follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. Even if you feel okay, it’s essential to see a doctor since some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the e-scooter or e-bike, road conditions, any vehicles involved, and your injuries. This documentation will be valuable evidence if you pursue a legal claim.
- Collect Witness Information: If any bystanders saw the accident, get their contact information. Witness statements can be crucial in determining liability.
- Report the Incident: Notify the e-scooter or e-bike rental company if you’re using a shared service. They may have specific reporting procedures outlined in their terms of service. If a motor vehicle was involved, call the police to file an official accident report.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced personal injury lawyer in Philadelphia, PA, can help you navigate the claims process, determine liability, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Liability in e-scooter and e-bike cases can be complicated, involving rental companies and drivers.
Final Thoughts
Riding an e-scooter or e-bike can be a safe and enjoyable way to get around, but it’s essential to prioritize safety and know what to do in case of an accident. By following these safety tips and taking immediate action after an injury, you’ll be in a stronger position to protect your health and your legal rights.
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, don’t navigate the process alone. Contact Malamut Law to discuss your case and explore your compensation options with a personal injury lawyer in Cherry Hill, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
