Why E-Scooter Accidents Are Rising in New York
Over the past few years, e-scooters have become a fast, affordable, and accessible transportation option across New York City. But with their growing popularity has come a significant rise in accidents and injuries. From Brooklyn to Riverside Park, e-scooter riders are increasingly being involved in serious collisions, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities.
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident in New York, understanding the risks, rights, and responsibilities involved is crucial. At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we help victims of e-scooter injuries hold the responsible party accountable and pursue full compensation for their losses.
The Rise of E-Scooter Accidents in NYC
The increase in e-scooter accidents in New York is linked to several key factors:
- More people are choosing micromobility devices like electric scooters and e-bikes to avoid traffic and public transportation.
- NYC’s pilot program to allow e-scooters in boroughs like the Bronx and Brooklyn has rapidly expanded.
- Many riders operate e-scooters without proper training, protective gear, or awareness of local traffic rules.
According to epidemiological studies and data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, injuries involving e-scooters and electric bikes have more than tripled over the last five years. This includes not just minor crashes, but incidents where riders are critically injured after being struck by motor vehicles or colliding with stationary objects.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Injuries
E-scooter injuries can occur in various scenarios, often with unexpected consequences. Many cases involve:
- Riders being struck by cars or other motor vehicles
- Crashes caused by poor street infrastructure, potholes, or debris
- Unsafe behavior such as speeding, weaving through traffic, or alcohol use
- Lack of helmet use and general disregard for safety practices
- E-scooter malfunctions or rental issues due to improper maintenance
In NYC, e-scooter riders are legally required to operate on streets—not sidewalks—and must follow all traffic rules. However, many riders and drivers remain unaware that e-scooters are considered motor vehicles under New York law, which influences who is liable in the event of a crash.
Who Is Responsible After an E-Scooter Crash?
Determining the responsible party in an e-scooter accident is not always straightforward. Liability could fall on:
- A negligent driver who struck the rider
- A municipality that failed to maintain safe streets
- A rental company that provided a defective scooter
- The rider, if reckless behavior or alcohol was involved
Injured individuals may face challenges when trying to prove fault or deal with insurance companies. That’s why it’s important to consult an attorney experienced in e-scooter accident cases who can conduct a detailed investigation and help protect your rights.
E-Scooter Accident Trends and Injury Patterns
Recent data show that scooter accidents have risen sharply in New York City, especially in busy areas like Brooklyn and Midtown. E-scooter injuries often involve:
- Head trauma and traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Deep cuts, road rash, and internal injuries
Many e-scooter accidents also involve children or young adults, who may not wear helmets or follow safe riding guidelines. In some cases, riders are thrown from their scooters after hitting a curb, car, or another cyclist.
The use of electric scooters and electric bikes has also resulted in more mixed-vehicle collisions, where e-bike and e-scooter riders are injured in crashes with cars, mopeds, or traditional bikes.
How NYC Can Improve Safety for E-Scooter Riders
As e-scooters become more integrated into the city’s transportation network, New York must continue to improve safety for riders. This includes:
- Enforcing street-level speed limits for micromobility devices
- Promoting helmet use and other protective measures
- Investing in bike lanes and infrastructure built for e-scooters
- Educating both riders and drivers about e-scooter laws
City officials have recognized the dangers associated with e-mobility devices and are working to promote safe riding through community programs, revised traffic laws, and ongoing monitoring of the pilot program’s results.
What to Do After an E-Scooter Accident in NYC
If you’re injured in an e-scooter accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the incident to the police and obtain an accident report
- Document the scene and gather contact information from witnesses
- Preserve the scooter if possible and note the company and model
- Contact an attorney to explore your legal options
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. E-scooter riders injured due to another party’s negligence have the same rights to recovery as those involved in other motor vehicle or bicycle accidents.
Learn more about why e-scooter accidents are rising in New York and what to do if you’ve been injured. Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP at (800) 842-8462 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQs: Why E-Scooter Accidents Are Rising in New York
Why are e-scooter accidents becoming more common in NYC?
The rapid increase in e-scooter usage, limited rider training, and growing traffic congestion have all contributed to the rise in accidents involving e-mobility devices.
Are e-scooters considered motor vehicles in New York?
Yes. Under New York law, e-scooters are considered motor vehicles and must be operated on streets, not sidewalks. This classification also affects liability and insurance issues in accident cases.
What are common injuries in e-scooter crashes?
E-scooter injuries often include head trauma, broken bones, spinal injuries, and lacerations. In serious cases, victims may be critically injured or face long-term medical care.
Can I sue if I’m injured while riding an e-scooter?
Yes. If your injuries were caused by a negligent driver, unsafe road conditions, or a defective scooter, you may have grounds to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party.
Do e-bike accidents follow the same legal process as e-scooter accidents?
Generally, yes. Both involve similar legal considerations, including fault, vehicle classification, and traffic laws. However, differences in speed, size, and regulation may affect how cases are handled.
Are helmets required for e-scooter riders in NYC?
Helmets are not universally required but are strongly recommended. Riders under 18 must wear a helmet, and helmet use is essential for reducing the risk of serious injury.