As electric scooters, or e-scooters, become more popular in Chicago, they potentially present an environmentally friendly alternative to driving and a more sanity alternative to taking public transportation. However, one significant consequence of more e-scooters is the increase in dangerous e-scooter accidents.
Not only do e-scooter riders often speed down the street without taking appropriate caution in regard to vehicular traffic, they often also violate the rules and ride on the sidewalks with pedestrians. This can present dangerous hazards to pedestrians and even pets, who are caught by surprise when e-scooter riders go flying past at high speeds. Add this to the danger that e-scooter riders face when they get into car crashes, and you have a perfect storm of dangerous accidents waiting to happen. As summer approaches and the city of Chicago allows three companies to apply for permits to operate up to 6,000 electric scooters, those who have been injured in e-scooter accidents may wonder if they can take action.
E-Scooters Present Dangers While Being Ridden and While Docked
While e-scooter accidents most often happen when a rider crashes into a vehicle or pedestrian, injuries also occur when e-scooters are left strewn about on sidewalks, curbs, and other public areas. Although e-scooters may be convenient for those who use them, many people complain of the nuisance e-scooters cause when they are ridden recklessly or left laying on the ground. Chicago hopes to mitigate some of the nuisance complaints by requiring e-scooters to be locked to appropriate objects after use, although this measure does not reduce risks while scooters are being ridden.
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