Electric scooters: increased accidents and regulatory changes
The increase in the use of electric scooters and their accident rate
While the increased use of electric scooters was already a reality before the start of the coronavirus pandemic, we can now see that this trend is no longer a passing fad, and their use in cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants has been replacing public transport and walking. According to a recently published study, an estimated 1,333,000 people have traveled by electric scooter during the pandemic, and this has led to a considerable increase in accidents related to this type of personal mobility vehicle. The consequences of these accidents are varied and, in many cases, difficult to resolve without the advice of lawyers specializing in such matters. Of the 3,334 traffic accidents with victims that occurred in Barcelona during the first half of 2021, 346 involved an electric scooter. We can see that there is a clear pattern of accidents in which, in many cases, and given that they belong to a vulnerable group, those injured are entitled to claim compensation as a result of the accident. Furthermore, of the 8 people who died in Barcelona during the first half of the year as a result of traffic accidents, 2 were riding electric scooters.
Regulatory changes and the need for legal advice
When we analyze the behavior and consequences of the increased use of this vehicle, we can see how the rise in accidents and its use has led to modifications in the Vehicle and Traffic Regulations. This modification, which came into effect on January 2, 2021, constitutes a first step in adapting our regulations to the use of this personal mobility vehicle. In the near future, specific regulations for the use of this means of transport will be expanded, regulating aspects such as the minimum age for driving, the necessary safety equipment, and whether or not mandatory civil liability insurance is required. At this point, it is worth mentioning that in the event of an accident involving an electric scooter, and without prior insurance coverage, we may find ourselves needing to hire lawyers specializing in negotiating the consequences of such accidents, as we could be liable for substantial compensation payments to cover the damages caused by the accident.
Walking on sidewalks is prohibited, leading to an increase in pedestrian accidents.
According to recent studies, it is estimated that over 1,500,000 citizens are considering using electric scooters as a regular means of transport. This use is not for sporting purposes, as the electric motor eliminates any physical exertion. They are used for commuting to work or school (29.8%) and for other daily journeys (58.4%). Therefore, we can see their use clearly increasing and constituting a new way of understanding mobility in large cities. It is not surprising that the latest accident report presented by the Deputy Mayor for Prevention and Security in the Barcelona City Council, Albert Batlle, highlights an 80% increase in accidents involving electric scooters during the first half of 2021. It is worth noting that all these increases have led to the prohibition of these vehicles from traveling on sidewalks or pedestrian areas, direct causes of pedestrian accidents, which is another reason why our clients request our services as lawyers specializing in compensation claims as a result of damages suffered from being hit by a vehicle.