E-scooter crashes in New York are increasing

In New York City, it is common to see people using various modes of transportation. That includes driving, taking the bus, walking, riding bicycles and riding motorcycles. In recent years, electric scooters (e-scooters) has been added to the mix. Accidents involving e-scooters can cause catastrophic injuries and fatalities and it is important for people involved in a collision with an e-scooter – whether as a rider or a person who is caught in an unfortunate situation – to know what their options are.

Local news investigations unit looks at e-scooter accidents

Recently, an Eyewitness News investigative team of reporters assessed e-scooter accidents and came to troubling conclusions. A problem with e-scooters is that many riders ignore the rules of the road. They might go the wrong way down a one-way street; go through traffic lights and stop signs; behave recklessly in traffic; and place pedestrians and others in danger. Drivers of cars, SUVs and trucks are prone to hitting riders and fleeing. This happened recently with the rider critically injured.

In 2022, at the time of the investigation, there had been 680 people who suffered injuries in an accident involving an e-scooter. In 2021, there were 588. This is a spike of 16%. Some areas of the city are worse than others. For example, lower Manhattan in the Chinatown area had 19 injuries. The area of the Bronx where the Bronx Zoo is located had 14.

The city has rules for riders. They are supposed to stay in the bicycle lane or on streets with a speed limit of 30 mph. However, riders tend to flout these rules. E-scooters are not allowed at all in Riverside Park, but riders are seen there riding them anyway. The commissioner of the Department of Transportation (DOT) is trying to educate people on the risks they face. Enforcement is being stepped up, but the possibility of a collision remains.

Those injured in e-scooter accidents may need professional representation

E-scooter accident victims may be confronted with massive medical costs, lost time at work and challenges in contributing to their families. They could be put in a position where they need help to complete even basic tasks.

Back injuries, brain injuries, broken bones, cuts and worse can occur. People might even lose their lives. The entire case must be assessed by experienced people to decide how to move forward. A consultation with qualified professionals can provide information with what to do after a crash.