Motor Scooter Accidents in Columbia

As in many other parts of the country, motor scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in Columbia. Scooter share programs have popped up in many cities and people are using them for everything from commuting to running errands. While electric scooters can be a convenient way to get around, there have also been many reports of electric scooter accidents and injuries, some of them serious.

For example, according to the Missourian, when the e-scooter company, Bird, first arrived on the scene in Columbia, there were approximately 20 scooter-related emergency room visits at the University Hospital just in the first few weeks alone. If you were involved in a motor scooter accident in Columbia, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact a skilled attorney today for more information.

Facts About Electric Scooter Injuries

Since e-scooters are relatively novel (compared to bikes, for example), there isn’t a lot of data on electric scooter injuries. However, one irrefutable conclusion from the existing data is that motor scooter injuries are on the rise. According to Statista, there was a jump in injuries from 4,500 in 2014 to over 14,000 in 2018. That’s an incredible 220% increase in e-scooter injuries in the United States in just four years. While this may be unsurprising due to the increasing popularity of e-scooters in Columbia, the numbers are still staggering.

What Causes Electric Scooter Accidents?

There are many different factors that can contribute to an electric scooter crash in Columbia. For example, defective scooters or parts can lead to accidents, as can riding on uneven or dangerous surfaces. However, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open, the most common cause of electric scooter accidents by far is falls. This is particularly true in urban areas, such as Columbia, where there is more traffic and pedestrians. And while fatalities are still relatively rare, with approximately 30 deaths recorded between 2018-2021, the overwhelming cause (80%) was being hit by a motor vehicle.

Types of Electric Scooter Injuries in Columbia

The combination of high rates of speed and lack of protection means that motor scooter injuries can be extremely serious. According to the same JAMA Network Open study, the most common type of injuries associated with e-scooter accidents are fractures, followed by head injuries, then cuts/lacerations and soft-tissue injuries. Perhaps most disturbing is the fact only about 4% of victims injured in e-scooter collisions were wearing helmets at the time of the accident. For those who suffer head injuries, this can mean a lifetime of permanent disability or even death.

What to Do if You’re Injured in an Electric Scooter Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured while riding a motor scooter in Columbia, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as concussions, are not always readily apparent, and it’s important to get a full evaluation to ensure you don’t have any hidden injuries. Once you’ve received treatment for your injuries, you should consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer.

How a Columbia Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer Can Help

A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and file a personal injury claim for your injuries. In many cases, this may involve having been hit by a negligent driver while on your motor scooter. An experienced lawyer in Columbia will thoroughly investigate the accident, review police and medical reports, and speak to witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf.

In other cases, where a defective scooter or part is to blame, rental companies may be held liable for lack of proper maintenance, as well as the scooter’s manufacturer. No matter what type of accident you were in, a personal injury lawyer will also fight to get you the full and fair compensation for your injuries. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact a Columbia Attorney to Discuss Your Motor Scooter Accident Claim

If you’ve suffered an injury in a motor scooter accident in Columbia, the skilled attorneys at the Law Offices of Chris Miller can help. We have extensive experience handling personal injury and product liability cases involving electric scooter accidents in Columbia, MO. We can help you understand your legal options and work to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

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