Indiana University Student Injured with Severe Head Trauma While Riding
Electric Scooter

Police say a 20-year-old Indiana University student remained hospitalized
after a recent accident driving an electric scooter. Several witnesses
report seeing the scooter traveling south on Fee Lane when the driver
suddenly lost control and crashed near the intersection of Law Lane. An
emergency situation quickly escalated after the scooter driver struck
his head on the road causing severe head trauma, with suspicion of a concussion
or other traumatic brain injury (TBI) likely. TBI is a major cause of
death and disability for 1.7 million people living in the United States.
Police say the scooter driver was not wearing a helmet. Although electric-scootering
can be an enjoyable pastime when safe driving practices are followed,
it is also inherently dangerous, especially for operators who are not
wearing the appropriate gear, such as a helmet.

Electric scooters consist of a footboard mounted on two wheels and a long
steering handle, propelled by a battery-operated motor on the footboard
but feet can also be used to create movement. The vehicles are typically
ridden for recreation but becoming more available as a realistic transportation
option on campuses as well as where bike and scooter sharing programs
are available.

Crash and Injury Factors for Electric Scooter Drivers

There are many factors left to identify between scooter driver related
injuries and their risk factors but what we do know is that electric scooters
are becoming a popular means of transportation, especially in downtown
Indy. Scooter-related injuries and related crashes are also trending,
especially those involving youth versus adults. Many risk factors and
causes of scooter crashes, several of which are avoidable, include:

  • Improper (tricks) or rash driving
  • Distracted or impaired driving
  • Poor judgment of the operator and disregard for traffic safely laws
  • Overcrowding the scooter, or packing the transportation device beyond the
    recommended weight

For anyone using an electric scooter we would encourage them to learn and
follow riding rules to keep themselves safe, as well as everyone around
them. These are easy things like wearing protective gear and bright colors,
staying alert and avoiding electronic device distractions. In addition,
here is a set of electric scooter safety guidelines sparked by Indianapolis
officials.

  1. Always wear a helmet.
  2. Travel with one user per device.
  3. Follow all traffic laws and don’t ignore road closures just because
    a scooter may be able to maneuver through small spaces.
  4. Never use while controlling an animal or while carrying large packages.
  5. Don’t block entrances or exits of businesses or parking garages.
  6. Avoid using a phone because distracted riding and driving puts everyone at risk.
  7. Never ride on sidewalks or trails.
  8. Park upright, near bike racks or docking stations.
  9. When parking, leave at least 4 feet of unobstructed passageway.
  10. Assume others may not see you so look ahead for hazards or situations to
    avoid that may cause you to fall or crash like wild animals, trash, rocks,
    potholes, and grates or train tracks.

There is a weakened awareness of motor vehicle drivers to watch out for
electric scooters as well. If you are a car or truck driver be sure to
share intersections, crossways and roads with these riders just as you
would a pedestrian or bicyclists. Drivers should expect to share the space
and travel alongside these devices more often in the future.

Electric Scooter Accident Injury Help

If you have suffered injuries as a result of a motorized scooter or shared
mobility device accident, the attorneys at Wagner Reese can assist you
in pursuing the compensation you deserve to cover a loss of wages and
medical bills while injured. There is no risk, as we never collect any
kind of fee unless your case is settled or won.

Connect with us by
submitting our online form, and our attorneys will review your information and respond promptly.
If you wish to speak with us directly, please call (888) 204-8440.