Electric scooters are more readily available and used in New Jersey than ever. While they have long existed, they are more common on streets today thanks to newer technology and accessibility. You can use an electric scooter, but doing so safely is important. Speak with a New Jersey electric scooter accident lawyer from Kwartler Manus today.
The Data on Electric Scooter Injuries
According to some data, e-scooter injuries have risen to over 115,000 per year. These are notable injuries resulting in emergency room visits. As a New Jersey personal injury lawyer, we can tell you that most of these injuries occur in preventable accidents. Yet, those accidents are not always the fault of the e-scooter rider. Other drivers do not pay attention to these operators, putting every person using one at risk, no matter how safe they are.
Still, by implementing a few specific steps, you can reduce the risk of serious injuries resulting in losses. These safety tips for electric scooter use apply to everyone, regardless of age or skill level.
Always Wear a Helmet
They may not be comfortable to wear, but helmets save lives and reduce the severity of head injuries. In our experience serving as a personal injury lawyer locally, most of the serious accidents we see are the result of strikes to the head, including the development of cognitive function loss due to traumatic brain injuries.
Helmets should not be negotiable for children. They are most at risk when heading out. The state’s laws require helmets for all e-bike and e-scooter riders if they are under the age of 17. We encourage you to wear them even as adults.
Know How to Ride Within the Law
Some cities in New Jersey have specific e-scooter rules you must follow. However, across the state, the following rules apply to most e-scooter users.
- Equipment: E-scooters need to have lights on them if you plan to use them at night. This includes a rear red light and a front white light.
- Where you use them: E-scooters are treated like traditional bikes, meaning riders must follow the laws that cars do. That means stopping for lights, using turn signals or hand motions, and obeying all traffic signs. You can use them on roadways and bike lanes, but not on sidewalks (some municipalities have specific bans on this).
- Helmets: As noted, the law requires them for anyone 17 years of age or younger.
If you are unsure what your local laws are related to the use of e-scooters, contact the local police department to ask. That way, you know you are doing everything you are supposed to in order to remain safe.
Make It Easy for Others to See You
Another critical way to reduce the risk of accidents is to make yourself as obvious as possible. To do that, wear reflective clothing or bright colors. Avoid wearing black or other colors that allow you to blend in with the environment too much.
You can also increase your visibility by using a brightly colored helmet or wearing reflectors on your bike. These may not seem like a big deal, but in our experience, these accidents often happen when drivers do not see riders. That is more common than you think.
Make Sure It Is in Good Condition
Before you head out on an e-scooter, especially if the scooter has not been used in some time, make sure you inspect it. Look at the tires and battery, ensure wires are in good condition, and complete any preventative maintenance the manufacturer recommends. Make sure the lights work.
A reliable e-scooter is less likely to break down on the roadway and create a higher risk of accidents occurring. If the e-scooter cannot keep up to speed or is not reliable, you could be at risk when a car fails to stop in time.
Be a Defensive Driver
As an electric scooter rider, recognize that the risk of being in an accident is high. You cannot control other people, but you can make changes to the way you operate the scooter that could keep you safe. Defensive driving means expecting others not to see you or keep you safe. Some steps you can take include:
- Keep ample distance between you and every other vehicle on the roadway. Several car lengths is beneficial, giving you plenty of time to react to a driver who fails to stop.
- When turning, signal early. Make sure it is very clear to the drivers of cars around you what you are doing. Do not proceed into the turn until you have a completely clear path.
- Avoid distractions while you are using the e-scooter. Do not use a phone and avoid having passengers on board with you.
These steps minimize risks by providing you with more time to react to changing conditions. It does not have to limit your experience. It could save your life.
Know Where to Turn After an E-Scooter Accident in New Jersey
At Kwartler Manus, our electric scooter accident lawyer in New Jersey can provide you with the reliable legal support you need. Set up a free consultation to tell us what happened to you. We want to prepare a maximized claim for you.
Blog Disclaimer – Kwartler Manus, LLC
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Reading or interacting with this content does not establish an attorney-client relationship with Kwartler Manus, LLC. Every legal matter is unique, and past results, settlements, verdicts, or case outcomes do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any future matter. This content may be considered Attorney Advertising under the rules of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. You should not act or rely upon any information contained in this blog without seeking the advice of a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation. Kwartler Manus, LLC is licensed to practice in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and this blog is intended for residents of those jurisdictions.