Electric scooters, also known as e-scooters or motorized scooters, are a fun and easy mode of transportation, especially for getting around town if someone does not want to drive a car. An electric scooter is a powered stand-up scooter using a small internal motor. The scooters have surged in popularity with the implementation of ride-share companies that allow users to rent the scooters by the hour using a convenient app on their smartphones. As with any motorized device, the potential exists for something to go wrong. In some cases, e-scooter accidents can result in injuries to both riders and pedestrians. At the Livas Law Group, a Division of Kralovec, Jambois & Schwartz, our experienced attorneys have extensive knowledge of seeking compensation for all types of personal injury cases, including those involving electric scooters.
Chicago’s E-Scooter Share Pilot Program
The city of Chicago recently launched an e-scooter share pilot program scheduled to run from June 15, 2019 through October 15, 2019. The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection issued permits for 10 scooter companies, including Bird, Lyft, and Lime, to name a few. Users can access the scooters in public areas, and they can use a smartphone to unlock and ride the devices within the designated zone.
This pilot program will test how well the scooters perform as a mobility option. Its goal is to minimize sidewalk traffic while maximizing safety. Several important aspects of this program include:
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Scooters are not permitted to leave the designated pilot area/zones.
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Scooters can be used from 5 a.m.–10 p.m. but must be off the street each night.
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Scooters should be operated and parked just like bicycles.
Common Types of E-Scooter Injuries
Similar to bicycles and motorcycles, electric scooters do not offer much protection to the rider. Thus, users are more susceptible to physical injuries in the event of an accident. A person who falls off a scooter or a pedestrian who is hit by an electric scooter should seek medical attention immediately. Documenting any injuries will help in seeking compensation later. Some of the more common injuries suffered in an e-scooter accident include:
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
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Fractured or broken bones
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Lacerations
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Torn ligaments
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Broken teeth
Some known cases of e-scooter accidents involve malfunctions, such as the handlebar collapsing, wheels locking up, or defective brakes. If faulty equipment played a role in the accident and subsequent injury, then the manufacturer of the scooter may be found negligent and at fault.
Contact a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney
The electric scooter craze has hit several large U.S. cities due to the convenience and ease of use these vehicles offer for people of all ages. In the city of Chicago, you can rent an e-scooter as a way of seeing the sights or traveling throughout the city. However, there have been a large number of reported cases of accidents involving e-scooters that resulted in significant injuries. The Livas Law Group has successfully represented clients in many personal injury claims, and we can help you understand your legal options following a scooter accident. One of our diligent Illinois scooter injury lawyers will carefully review the details of your case to determine liability and help you pursue compensation for your damages. Call our office at 312-804-6102 today to schedule a free consultation.
Source:
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdot/supp_info/escooter-share-pilot-project.html