If you’ve spent any amount of time outside in New York these past few years, you’ve probably noticed people riding motor scooters. These vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to their compact size and availability. But how safe are they?
Unfortunately, although the popularity of motor scooters is on the rise, New York has been slow to evolve to this new reality. Consequently, operating an electric scooter in New York carries several risks that riders may not be aware of. Learn more about the safety issues that accompany riding a motor scooter in New York.
Risks Associated With Motor Scooters
Although laws and statutes are being crafted with the intention of keeping scooter operators safe, there are inherent risks that accompany riding an electric scooter in New York. Many of these risks have to do with the nature of the state itself.
New York is a dense place that is filled with people and tall buildings. This topography can make operating a small motor scooter quite dangerous.
Some of the injuries sustained by people who were in an accident on their motor scooter include:
- Concussions
- Severe head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
Beyond corporeal injuries, motor scooters are not designed to withstand the impact of a semi-truck or other large vehicles. As such, a collision can have catastrophic results. However, collisions are not the only thing riders need to worry about.
Here are some non-collision hazards that motor scooter drivers should be aware of.
Road Conditions
The road conditions in New York can be very different depending on where you are driving. Unfortunately, hitting a pothole with the front wheel of a scooter could send you flying through the air. Additionally, roads covered in debris and trash can pose a challenge, as the driver will have to navigate around any obstacles.
Vehicle Malfunctioning
Like any vehicle, motor scooters can malfunction. If the driver does not know how to spot the signs of a malfunction or remedy a problem, the results could be disastrous.
Inexperience
Similar to knowing how to deal with mechanical problems, drivers should also be experienced in regards to safely operating motor scooters. Due to their design, motor scooters require different levels of dexterity and awareness than a regular car. A driver who does not understand this might find themselves at a disadvantage on the road.
Since so many things can go wrong while operating a motor scooter, it is imperative that drivers follow the law, wear a helmet, and exercise caution at all times.
Motor Scooter Accidents: What To Do
The reality of operating a motor scooter in any metropolitan area is that there are statistically higher chances of getting into an accident. In the event of an accident, it is important to have a plan.
Document Everything
If you are in an accident, try to document as much as possible. That means taking photos of the damage and writing down everything you can remember about the accident. If any witnesses were present, make sure to obtain their contact information.
See a Doctor
After an accident, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. This visit establishes a record of injury and can help you should you decide to file a personal injury claim later on.
Contact a Queens Personal Injury Lawyer for Help After a Motor Scooter Accident
Now that you know the risks of riding a motor scooter in New York, you should be better prepared to protect yourself and others. However, if you’re involved in an electric scooter accident, contact a Queens personal injury attorney for help.
If you need legal assistance, contact the Bronx scooter accident lawyers at Oresky & Associates, PLLC at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation.
We have two convenient locations in New York:
Oresky & Associates, PLLC – Bronx Office
149 E 149th St
Bronx, NY 10451
(718) 993-9999
Oresky & Associates, PLLC – Queens Office
104-09 Roosevelt Ave
Queens, NY 11368
(347) 507-3884
