Since being approved for consumer use in Milwaukee, electric scooters have become increasingly popular, and unfortunately, with more of them on roads, accidents involving electric scooters have also increased. Here are some common types of accidents involving electric scooters in Milwaukee:
- Collisions with Vehicles: Electric scooter riders are vulnerable to collisions with vehicles, especially at intersections or when vehicles are turning or changing lanes.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Electric scooter riders can collide with pedestrians on sidewalks or in crosswalks, causing serious injuries.
- Rider Error: Electric scooter riders may lose control of the scooter, fail to yield, or ride in prohibited areas, leading to accidents.
- Poor Road Conditions: Poor road conditions, such as potholes, cracks, or uneven pavement, can cause electric scooter riders to lose control and crash.
- Equipment Failure: Malfunctioning or poorly maintained electric scooters can lead to accidents, such as brakes failing or wheels locking up.
These scooters are typically battery-operated and travel at speeds up to 15 to 18 miles per hour. Since electric scooters have characteristics of both a motor vehicle and a bicycle, placing them in the general transit landscape becomes problematic.
These vehicles are prohibited from being driven on sidewalks, so must be driven on city streets and abide by the regular rules of the road like four-wheel vehicles. This includes stopping at the stop signs and traffic lights. Unfortunately, many people who drive an electric scooter do not abide by the normal traffic rules. Scooter riders may drive through intersections or on sidewalks, not knowing (or caring) that the rules of the road apply to all vehicles on the road.
The injuries from scooter accidents can be further exacerbated when the scooter riders do not wear appropriate protective gear like helmets. A lot of serious, life-long head injuries can be avoided with the thoughtful use of helmets and it is hoped that all scooter riders and bicyclists use them.
It’s important for electric scooter riders to follow traffic laws and regulations, wear helmets, and ride defensively to avoid accidents. Drivers should also be vigilant and watch for electric scooters on the road. Pedestrians should be aware of their surroundings and watch for electric scooters on sidewalks and in crosswalks.
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