New York Revel E-Scooter Accident Lawyer

Electronic scooters have increased in popularity in recent years, with more and more app-based transportation devices popping up around New York. Many commuters, students, and tourists embrace scooters because they are a convenient, eco-friendly way to get across the city. Along with other companies, including Bird and Lime, Revel is one of the most popular scooter rental companies in the area.

Unfortunately, a rise in the popularity of electronic scooters has led to a noticeable surge in these accidents. Riders often collide with vehicles or pedestrians, and the consequences are often disastrous. While new safety laws are attempting to regulate this industry, accidents are likely to continue increasing. Working with a personal injury lawyer is often necessary to receive the compensation you deserve.

What Are Revel Electric Scooters? 

Electronic scooters are motorized devices that do not need a dock to charge. Instead, rental companies pick the scooters up and charge them when they are not used. Scooters are found on many New York streets and are rented using a mobile app. Some people use them daily to commute to work while others only use them for recreation.

Based in New York City, Revel was started in 2018. There are more than 1,000 Revel scooters available in New York to rent. The company recently expanded its services to Washington, D.C., and there are plans to open offices in other cities.

How Dangerous Are Electric Scooters? 

According to a report by the National Association of City Transportation Officials, there were more than 86 million electronic scooter rides in 2019. As more people seek alternatives to train and bus travel, the usage of these devices is likely to continue rising, posing an increased safety risk to both riders and pedestrians.

According to a recent study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, scooters resulted in more than 50,000 emergency room visits and more than 25 deaths between 2017 and 2019. Many of these accidents involved Revel rental units. More than five moped riders were killed in Revel crashes in 2020, bringing the company’s fatality rate to 1.38 deaths per million trips in New York City. Electronic scooters pose a danger not only to users but also to pedestrians. There was at least one pedestrian killed in a Revel-related crash in 2020.

What Are Common Causes for Scooter Accidents?

While many crashes are due to driver inexperience, many other factors contribute to scooter collisions. Most scooters can travel at speeds between 15 and 30 miles per hour. While this may seem slow compared to a car, it can cause serious damage if the driver loses control. Here are common causes of electronic scooter crashes:

• Road hazards: The scooter driver hits a pothole, rock, metal part, curb, or wood debris.
• Swerving actions: The driver must quickly swerve to avoid a vehicle or motorist, causing motorists to lose balance.
• Door collisions: The rider collides with the open door of a parked vehicle.

Many accidents are also caused by scooter malfunctions, including flat tires, handlebar problems, or brake issues. Revel is likely partially liable for the crash if a scooter malfunction led to an accident.

What Are the Most Common Types of Scooter Accident Injuries? 

Revel scooter collisions can result in injuries ranging from minor to severe. Injuries are often more severe than in vehicle-only crashes because riders usually come into direct contact with other objects. Some common injuries include:

• Cuts and scrapes
• Lacerations
• Broken bones
• Fractures
• Head or facial trauma
• Brain injuries
• Internal trauma

A recent study by the University of British Columbia found that the head, the lower extremities, and the upper extremities are especially vulnerable to injury in crashes. The study also found that falls are the most common mechanism of injury and low helmet use rates contribute to the severity of injuries.

What Should I Do After a Scooter Accident Injury?

After a scooter accident, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. You should visit a hospital or emergency care center even if you do not think your injuries warrant attention. The adrenaline of an accident often dulls pain, and you may not notice an injury until the doctor’s exam. Also, medical documentation is essential if you plan to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit.

Whether you are the scooter rider or a pedestrian injured in a crash, you should contact a personal injury lawyer. An attorney can help you determine if you have a valid case and who is liable for the accident. If you are a pedestrian hit by a Revel scooter, the driver may be responsible. If you are a driver injured by the negligence of another vehicle, the driver of the car is likely responsible. Revel might share responsibility if a unit malfunction contributed to the crash.

A personal injury lawyer can help you gather evidence in any of these instances. Photos, medical documents, and witness testimony can help support your claim.

Who Is Liable When an Electric Scooter Crashes?

Most vehicle rental companies, including Revel, require drivers to waive their rights to a class-action lawsuit when signing a user agreement. However, some courts do not recognize these agreements. Despite these contracts, several cases have been filed against Revel in New York. These lawsuits claim that Revel is liable for their injuries because of device malfunction or other forms of negligence. Thus, it is likely possible to sue Revel for negligence if you believe it is at least partially responsible for your accident.

However, most lawsuits regarding electronic scooters occur between riders, other motorists, and pedestrians responsible for the accident. Negotiations are the first step to receiving compensation before filing a lawsuit. An e-scooter car accident lawyer can assess your case and advise how to move forward.

Work With Hill and Moin

Were you injured in a Revel electric scooter accident in New York? You should work with a personal injury lawyer to ensure you understand your rights and receive fair compensation. Hill and Moin LLP has over four decades of experience in personal injury law. Contact us today to set up a no-obligation appointment with one of our attorneys.