Electric scooters have become a primary mode of transport for many people over the last few years. This is due to its affordability and eco-friendly nature. Though the initiative to use compact and eco-friendly products is commendable, electric scooters are not the best choice in terms of safety.
Accidents involving electric scooters can be devastating as riders are not adequately protected. If a person is involved in such an accident, it is crucial to hire an electric scooter accident attorney. They can help victims negotiate with the insurance adjuster and get fair compensation.
The amount of electric scooter accidents has been increasing every year, making everyone wonder why. This blog lists 4 common factors that cause electric scooter accidents.
1. Poor Road Conditions and Infrastructure
Roads that are not regularly maintained can be more dangerous for an electric scooter compared to conventional vehicles. As electric scooters are much lighter, hazards such as potholes, slippery surfaces, etc., increase the chances of losing control of the vehicle. Congested roads can also make it difficult for riders to safely maneuver across the traffic.
For example, if an electric scooter unexpectedly hits a pothole, the rider might lose control of the vehicle and fall.
To prevent such accidents, the government must maintain road conditions, and riders need to exercise caution while on the road.
2. Distracted and Reckless Riding
Riding is an activity that requires full attention. This attention is gone the minute one shifts their attention to other activities such as listening to music, checking the phone, etc. Though multitasking can be useful, it can be fatal while riding.
Another contributing factor is reckless riding. Riders often engage in dangerous maneuvers such as speeding, weaving through traffic, and running red lights that could cause harm to the rider and others on the road.
For example, a rider might get busy on their phone while riding and fail to notice the oncoming traffic, resulting in an accident.
Riders must focus on driving and obey traffic laws to ensure safety.
3. Vehicle Malfunctions and Technical Failures
Electronic scooters are a fairly new product in the market. This means that there is a chance that certain electric scooters may have issues that have not yet been addressed. There are several instances when electronic scooters have stopped due to battery, brake, or electric failures.
There have also been accidents due to battery overheating and motor malfunctions. Rental companies might unknowingly rent out damaged vehicles, leading to an accident.
For example, a rider might lose control of the vehicle due to brake failure, failing to slow down, or stopping at a red light, causing an accident.
Before going for a ride, check the brakes, tires, and battery levels; if the vehicle is rented, report any damages to the provider so it is taken care of.
4. Lack of Visibility and Unsafe Road Sharing
The size of a rider on an electronic scooter is significantly smaller than other vehicles on the road. This makes it difficult for other drivers to spot an electric scooter, especially at night or in heavy traffic.
Roads with poor lighting could make it difficult to spot the rider, which is why it is ideal that riders wear reflective gear. Other vehicles may also find it difficult to anticipate where the rider aims to go. The size of the electric scooter makes it vulnerable as it can often get caught in other vehicles’ blind spots.
For example, on a congested road, a rider might ride in the blind spot of a truck, and the truck might attempt a lane change, which could seriously harm the rider.
Riders must wear reflective gear, stay at a safe distance from other vehicles, avoid sudden movements, and always use scooter lights in dimly lit areas.