Riding electric bikes and scooters has become a fashionable mode of transportation in Rhode Island and across the nation. However, recent statistics have raised alarm bells regarding their safety. Crash reports in Providence, as revealed by the NBC 10 I-Team, have shown a sharp increase in accidents involving e-bikes and e-scooters, with a 32% rise observed in the past year. This surge in accidents poses a serious threat to riders and pedestrians alike.
Illustrating the severity of these incidents, a notable case in October involved an e-scooter colliding with an open car door on Thayer Street before hitting another car’s door and fleeing the scene. In June, a rider struck a car on Michigan Avenue, citing impaired vision in one eye and wearing headphones at the time of the collision. Similarly, in July, an e-bicyclist collided with a Providence police detective on West Franklin Street, confessing to not using the designated bike lane and making an illegal turn. Notably, this bicyclist was a minor.
The increase in electric bike and scooter accidents is not exclusive to Rhode Island but extends across the United States. According to a recent report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, injuries related to e-scooters and e-bikes surged by nearly 21% in 2022. These accidents can result in severe harm to riders, including broken bones, head injuries, and more.
Filing Your Injury Claim
When individuals are harmed or injured due to e-bike or e-scooter accidents, they may have legal grounds to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for their damages. This type of lawsuit typically falls under the category of personal injury law, specifically product liability. To pursue such a claim effectively, it is essential to understand the lawsuit process and the importance of legal representation at each stage.
The lawsuit process begins with the injured party consulting an experienced attorney who specializes in personal injury cases. The attorney plays a crucial role in gathering evidence, assessing liability, and determining the best legal strategy. They also negotiate with responsible parties to ensure that the victim receives fair compensation.
In a product liability lawsuit concerning injuries from defective e-bikes or e-scooters, victims may seek damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages, and other losses resulting from their injuries. The extent of damages can vary based on the specific circumstances of each case, but the primary goal is to secure just compensation for the harm suffered.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
The rise in electric bike and scooter accidents is a concerning trend that demands increased attention to rider safety and accountability for manufacturers and rental companies. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, it is vital to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to explore your legal options.
For those seeking legal assistance with their claim, the national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP offers a free consultation. Contact them at 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) to discuss your case and protect your rights. Prioritizing safety on the roads is paramount, and legal action can help ensure accountability and compensation for those affected by e-bike and e-scooter accidents.
Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide personal injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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