Scooters and mopeds have become more popular in recent years as people embrace eco-friendly transportation solutions throughout New York. The Veo scooter and e-bike rental program has made it easier for folks to take advantage of these convenient and eco-friendly modes of transportation. While these electric transportation options might be convenient, it’s important to understand and follow relevant safety measures to prevent accidents. And if you are in an accident, make sure you know your legal options.
Getting to Know Electric Scooters and Mopeds
Electric scooters (e-scooters) and mopeds are small, motorized vehicles intended for short trips in urban areas. They run on eclectic motors and typically have a top speed ranging from 15 to 30 miles per hour. This makes them super convenient for navigating city streets and crowded streets more efficiently.
“The bike- and scooter-share system gives people another mobility option to connect them to jobs, education, health care, shopping, and all the other places they need to go,” said Jesse Peers of Reconnect Rochester, a nonprofit focused on solving local transportation challenges.
Current Scooter Trends in New York
The launch of the Veo scooter and e-bike rental program in Rochester is a significant step towards enhancing local transportation options. These programs allow users to rent scooters and e-bikes through a smartphone app. They’re great because they promote convenience, lower traffic congestion, and reduce environmental impact.
One early adopter of the program, Cinnamon McCullum, commented that, while micromobility (which refers to the use of lighter-weight forms of vehicles, especially electric ones and including those available to rent or share) could be a toy for some people or a choice for others, it also improves the daily quality of life for others like herself.
Electric Scooter Safety Tips
Riding an electric scooter can be convenient and fun. That said, it’s still important to prioritize e-bike and moped safety. This means always wearing a helmet when riding to safeguard against head injuries. New York’s bike helmet law was recently updated, and many of the same considerations apply to electric bikes.
This includes following traffic laws just like if you were driving a regular car. Stop at red lights, yield to pedestrians, and use designated lanes. Before getting on your electric bike, check its damage or maintenance issues. Make sure things like brakes, lights, and tires are working correctly.
If you plan to drive at night, use lights and reflective gear. That way, you stay visible to other drivers and pedestrians. Always be aware of your surroundings and think about the actions of other drivers and pedestrians. This means you should avoid any distractions, like your phone, while driving.
What to Do if you’re in an Electric Scooter Accident
Accidents can happen even if you take all the right precautions. If you’re in an electric scooter accident, seek medical attention ASAP. Get checked by a healthcare professional, even if your injuries seem small. Your health and safety are top priorities; injuries can often be missed if not addressed immediately.
It’s also critical to report the accident to the local authorities and the rental company (if applicable). Take photos of the scene, the damage to the scooter, and any injuries. You also need to exchange contact and insurance details with anyone else involved. Get contact info from any witnesses, too.
Consulting with an attorney is also important if you’re in an accident. Contact a Rochester personal injury lawyer who’s worked on electric scooter cases. They can provide guidance on your legal options, like pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Stay Safe On Your Rides Through Rochester
Electric scooters and mopeds are a convenient, eco-friendly way to get around New York’s busy streets. But safety should always come first. By following these suggestions and knowing what steps to take if an accident happens, riders can stay informed, safe, and enjoy the ride responsibly! If you have more questions about staying safe on the road throughout Western New York, we’re here to help. If you’ve been injured in an accident due to another’s negligence, contact our team today.
