Ridesharing Companies are Making E-Scooters Available for Consumers

Lime, Bird, and Bolt are the most widely known brands of electric scooters that are currently on the market. However, ridesharing companies, such as Uber and Lyft, are offering their own version of this mode of transportation that is growing in popularity in cities across the country. Uber recently launched its partnership with JUMP Bikes and currently owns stakes in Lime. Lyft’s scooters are available in a range of cities, including Washington, D.C. However, many people have expressed concern over the safety of these vehicles, particularly when users are riding the scooters on busy sidewalks.

One of the main safety issues associated with e-scooters is head injuries. According to a study conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, fractures and head injuries are the most common e-scooter-related injuries. Thirty percent of injuries are fractures and 40 percent are head injuries. The reason for the high percentage of head injuries is that less than five percent of scooter users were wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Research also suggests that users underestimate the potential for injuries because e-scooters are easy to use.

E-scooter companies generally agree that it is necessary to push for long-term solutions, such as redesigning city streets and improving traffic flow, as well as improving the sidewalks.

Safety Tips When Using E-Scooters

E-Scooters are certainly fun to ride, but when users are not careful, they can cause a range of safety hazards. The following tips can help users avoid injuries related to e-scooter accidents:

• Wear appropriate safety equipment: Always wear a helmet to prevent head injuries. Elbow and knee pads can also protect against cuts and scrapes.
• Check tires: Make sure there is enough air in the tires and replace the tires if they are worn or defective.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles. Always follow the rules of the road and avoid distractions.
• Avoid potholes and other road hazards: Potholes, bumps, crevices, and large puddles can cause you to lose control of the scooter. Stay focused and alert so you can avoid these hazards.
• Use caution when road is slippery: When roads, sidewalks, metal surfaces, or marble tires become wet, they are extremely slippery. Reduce your speed or avoid riding the scooter until conditions are safe.
• Do not use scooter during a thunder/lightning storm: Scooters do not provide any protection from lighting, so avoid riding a scooter during a lightning storm as they can be extremely dangerous.

Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Protect Victims of E-Scooter Accidents

If you were injured in an accident involving an e-scooter, do not hesitate to contact the Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Our skilled and dedicated legal team will examine the details of your accident and determine who is responsible for your injuries. We will ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.