Sometimes, you just need a quick ride to go see a friend or pick up something from the nearby store. However, picking up the car keys to drive to the next block may be a big hassle, especially in traffic-congested cities and neighborhoods. Many therefore choose other options such as electric scooters (e-scooters).
“While e-scooters provide a faster option than walking or driving from one block to the next, the impact on public safety is a major concern,” says Personal Injury Attorney, Maxwell Paderewski. Injuries are the issue with E-scooters, and the injury rate is on the rise, particularly in Los Angeles. Thus, there is a need for strict safety regulations in cities where the use of e- scooters is legal.
A Scooter-Sharing System
A scooter-sharing system is a shared transportation service that involves renting out e-scooters for short periods using a mobile application. E-scooters are usually dockless while using the system. It means they do not have a set address and are dropped off and picked up at various locations within the service region.
Scooter-sharing systems aim to provide a quick and convenient mode of mobility in urban areas to the general public. The system is one of the most cost-effective options, particularly for individuals who cannot afford to purchase a new electric scooter.
The Impact of Shareable Scooters in LA
The ease with which the public can rent on-demand shareable scooters has increased the rate of e-scooter injuries in Los Angeles. According to studies, injuries increased after launching the shareable scooter in 2018.
Studies revealed there were only about 13 e-scooter injuries every year before the introduction of shareable scooters. E-scooter injuries climbed to 595 and 672 in 2018 and 2019, respectively, following the introduction of shareable e-scooters in the region.
Aside from the riders, others who sustained injuries in e-scooter accidents include pedestrians who got hit by moving e-scooters or stumbled over parked e-scooters. Treatment of head, arm, and leg injuries were common for victims after being hit by, falling off, or stumbling over an e-scooter.
Causes of E-Scooter Injuries
Most people who ride scooters do not wear helmets. When people who do not wear helmets fall, the effect of the injury on the head will most likely be high. It could even lead to death.
Furthermore, most riders carelessly leave shared E-scooters in areas where they block walkways or entrances to buildings. Walkers that are unaware of their presence, end up tripping over them. As a result, this may cause limb or head injuries.
Urban planning and infrastructure also have an impact on e-scooter accidents. For instance, urban planning and infrastructure play a role in speed limits and the accessibility of specific bicycle lanes. However, in cities without designated lanes for scooters, the riders may hit other road users, especially pedestrians, or be hit by cars.
What Can the Government Do to Reduce E-Scooter-Related Accidents?
There are some strategies that can help reduce e-scooter-related accidents. It will also guarantee that the usage of e-scooters advances in a way that meets mobility goals. Some of these strategies include:
#1. The Road Rules
Governments will play a vital role in establishing and enforcing appropriate e-scooter usage rules, such as prohibiting riding in pedestrian zones. It will go a long way in preventing riders from running into walkers.
There is also a need to educate E-scooter on the right-of-way rules that apply to them. Cities must convey those rules to both riders and other road users. Good knowledge and adherence to these rules will also prevent accidents.
#2. Proper Urban Planning
Riders without a designated lane have no choice but to share the road with vehicles and other road users. As a result, this increases traffic congestion and can lead to accidents.
The safety of riders, drivers, and walkers is likely to be in danger in cities without dedicated riding zones. To avoid this, regulators must provide designated lanes for e-scooters.
What Can E-Scooter Riders Do to Help Prevent Accidents?
E-scooter riders also have to play their part in reducing e-scooter-related accidents. Thus, for their safety and the safety of other road users, they should adhere to the following safety rules:
#1. Regular Inspection of Scooters
Cars, motorcycles, and bicycles need regular maintenance as they wear down from use; e-scooters are not an exception. Also, an inspection of scooters before riding is necessary to ensure the safety of the driver and other road users.
Thus, the riders should always check if the tires have enough pressure. They should check if any nuts or screws are loose and if the brakes are working. They should also ensure that their brake discs are not bending before riding the scooter.
#2. Wearing Helmets
Some things are beyond the control of road users when it comes to accidents. No matter how careful someone is on the road, accidents can happen. Therefore road users need to prepare themselves in case an accident occurs.
When riding an e-scooter, wearing a helmet will reduce critical head injuries when accidents happen. Wearing a helmet is the best strategy for reducing head injuries and fatalities due to motorcycle and bicycle accidents, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The same is true for individuals who use e-scooters.
#3. Riding With Both Hands on the Handlebars
Overconfident riders may believe that as long as one hand is on the handlebar, they can effortlessly browse their phone or do something else. However, this can cause accidents.
One-arm riding is highly unsafe with electric scooters due to the small contact patch on the road. E-scooter riders ride on smaller wheels than bike riders, which means they have less ground clearance for turning and are more sensitive to shocks and jolts.
Riders who ride with both hands can make some adjustments to their balance point, allowing them to achieve a more even balance. On the other hand, riders who ride with one hand will find it hard to make adjustments if the e-scooter sways in the opposite direction. Thus, it is always advisable for riders to ride with both hands on the handlebars.
Final Thoughts
While E-scooters serve as a cheaper option to move from one place to another, it has risks to the riders and other road users. However, with proper knowledge and adherence to safety rules, e-scooter riders can minimize e-scooter accidents to the same level as any mode of transportation.
