Electric scooters, or e-scooters, have zoomed onto the streets of Los Angeles, bringing with them a wave of convenience, fun, and unfortunately, accidents. With companies like Lime, Bird, and Uber providing e-scooter rental services, their usage has exploded in recent years. However, the rapid rise in popularity has also been accompanied by an increase in e-scooter-related accidents.
A Surge in E-Scooter Accidents
A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with the Public Health and Transportation departments in Austin, Texas, found that for every 100,000 e-scooter trips taken, 20 individuals were injured. Extrapolating these figures to a bustling city like Los Angeles, it’s clear that e-scooter accidents are more common than one might think. The most common injuries involve head trauma, fractures, cuts, and bruises.
Common Causes
E-scooter accidents can happen due to various reasons. Some are caused by inexperienced riders, poor infrastructure such as a lack of bike lanes, or insufficient maintenance of the scooters. Other accidents result from riders not wearing helmets or using the e-scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
What to Do in the Event of an E-Scooter Accident
If you find yourself involved in an e-scooter accident, the following steps can help ensure your safety and protect your rights:
- Ensure Safety: The first step is to check if you or anyone else is injured. If medical help is required, call 911 immediately.
- Report the Accident: Inform local law enforcement about the accident. Even if the injuries or damages seem minor, an official report may be essential if you need to make an insurance claim or legal
case later. - Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages to the e-scooter or other vehicles involved. Collect names and contact information of any eyewitnesses.
- Inform the E-Scooter Company: Report the accident to the e-scooter company. Most companies have a reporting mechanism in their apps or websites.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Therefore, it’s advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident.
- Consult an Attorney: If you’re considering making a claim for your injuries, it can be beneficial to consult with an attorney experienced in personal injury law, and specifically, e-scooter cases
Prevention and Riding Responsibly is Key
While understanding what to do in the event of an accident is crucial, prevention should always be the priority. Wearing a helmet, maintaining a safe speed, being aware of traffic rules, and refraining from using an e-scooter under the influence of drugs or alcohol can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
E-scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, but with this comes the need for responsible use. By taking appropriate precautions and understanding what to do in the event of an accident, you can ensure that your ride is not just fun and efficient, but also safe.
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured in an E-Scooter Accident?
If you or a loved one have been injured in an e-scooter accident in Los Angeles or the surrounding areas, contact the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg. Our experienced and award-winning attorney has the knowledge and fortitude to help guide you and ensure you get the best possible care and outcome. Contact us today for your free consultation by messaging us here, or call us at 310-997-0904.
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