Electronic Vehicles Continue Increasing In Popularity, But We Have Concerns

Electric vehicles, including e-scooters, one-wheel, etc. are an increasingly popular method of transportation for those looking to cut down on commuting and rising fuel costs. Similar to the foot-propelled scooters popular with children, users ride on a rectangular base and hold onto handlebars. However, electric vehicles are battery-operated and do not require users to propel themselves forward with their feet. Instead, software built into the vehicle allows users to maneuver easily at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

Why Are Electric Vehicles Dangerous?

What most people don’t consider is that even when taking safety precautions, such as wearing a helmet or operating the vehicle at reduced speeds, product defects can still lead to serious injuries and costly recovery. For example, we have found that in some instances foldable electronic vehicles can collapse, causing people to fall from them at a high rate of speed.

Many electronic vehicles have a locking mechanism that is designed to keep the handlebars from folding down while operating the scooter. However, not all mechanisms are created equally. Instead, some are poorly designed and have caused serious injuries when these locking mechanisms malfunction.

If you or a loved one believes they are entitled to compensation after being injured due to a defective vehicle, contact the professionals at KBA Attorneys to schedule a free consultation today.

Common Injuries Associated with Electric Vehicles Defects

Accidents related to micro-mobility products, including e-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards, increased 70 percent from 2017 to 2020, according to the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission. These injuries are often the result of defects in workmanship and the negligence of sellers to warn consumers or recall products that can be dangerous.

Some common injuries include:

• Head injuries (including traumatic brain injury or TBI, concussions, paralysis and loss of cognitive and physical function)
• Fractured arms or collarbones
• Sprained ankles, ligaments, or tears
• Fractures of the skull, face, and neck
• Dental injuries
• Concussion

How Can an Electric Scooter Be Defective?

There are a number of ways in which an electric scooter, meant to be operated for commuting or recreation, can become dangerous. Faulty brakes or software, detaching hardware, and even batteries that burst into flames have been reported by users in recent years.

Other common scooter defects include:

• Failed locking mechanisms on foldable handlebars
• Sticky throttles
• Flat or improperly filled tires
• Baseboard breaking in half during a ride
• Software malfunctions

At this time, our firm is looking at failed handlebars and battery explosions. The scooter design defects that result in exploding batteries and handlebars that collapse while riding can cause serious injuries.