Electric Scooter Risks in New Orleans
Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in New Orleans. Their appeal makes sense, scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly way for people to get around the city, but it is also important to recognize that scooter travel comes with risks.
If you were involved in a scooter accident, discussing your situation with a New Orleans personal injury lawyer can help you protect your rights. Safety always comes first, but in the event of an injury, you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Risks and Dangers of Electric Scooters in New Orleans
Electric scooters, such as those offered by companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin, are an attractive transportation option for locals and tourists alike. While the ease of renting and riding electric scooters is part of their appeal, the easy access also gives people a false sense of security.
Some of the dangers of traveling on an electric scooter in New Orleans include the following.
- Collisions with vehicles. Everyone needs to share the road, including motor vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles, and electric scooters. While this is well known, many car and truck drivers are not accustomed to sharing the road with scooters, and when they don’t see a person on a scooter accidents can occur.
- Uneven riding surfaces. New Orleans is known for its historic architecture and charming streets, but with these visually stunning areas comes uneven pavements, potholes, and debris, which can pose a significant risk to scooter riders. Accident injuries have been sustained by electric scooter operators losing control when encountering such obstacles.
- Lack of protective gear. While helmets are recommended for individuals riding electric scooters, they are not readily available and many rent scooters without giving a helmet or other protective gear a second thought. This lack of protection can result in injuries should an accident occur.
- Operators are inexperienced. Many scooter riders are inexperienced or tourists, individuals who do not know how to operate scooters effectively or are not familiar with the rules of Louisiana roads.
While the risks associated with electric scooters are real, recognizing them means you can take to protect yourself and minimize your chances of being injured. For example, you can wear a helmet, follow traffic rules, use designated lanes, drive at a safe speed, and avoid uneven terrain.
Legal Recourse After a Scooter Accident
Of course, you can only control your own actions, not the behavior of others, so it is possible to be involved in a scooter accident even if you have done everything you could to prevent it. If you believe your injury is due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses and other damages. Consult with a knowledgeable New Orleans personal injury lawyer who can assess your case and guide you through the legal process.
Have you been coping with expenses following an electric scooter accident? Whether the accident took place in New Orleans, Metairie or Gretna, the legal team at Palazzo Law Firm is available to help. Call 504-433-1442 for a fee-free consultation.
