In a horrible accident on the evening of January 25, 2022, a 55-year-old man riding an electric scooter was struck and killed by a sanitation truck. The victim, whose name has not been disclosed, was traveling south on Rockaway Avenue at around 7:50 p.m. in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn.
According to police, the sanitation truck had just made a right-hand turn from Ditmas Avenue onto Rockaway when it hit him. The sanitation truck driver remained at the scene. The man was transported to Brookdale University Hospital but, sadly, succumbed to his injuries. Our hearts are with the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.
This incident is currently being investigated by police. Although an exact cause has not yet been determined, it is important to consider the safety hazards that may be at play.
Electric scooters (e-scooters) have become an increasingly popular form of transportation in New York City, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when commuters are inclined to avoid crowded subways and buses. The city legalized all e-scooters in 2020, allowing anyone 16 and older to ride. Legally, e-scooters must not be driven in excess of 15 mph and generally can only be ridden in bike lanes and roads with speed limits of 30 mph or less. Riders younger than 18 years old are required by law to wear a helmet.
The overall safety of vehicles like e-bikes and e-scooters (also known as micromobility devices) has been brought to question in recent years. In 2021 alone, more than 15 people were killed while riding e-mobility vehicles. These safety concerns are furthered by recent increases in overall city traffic deaths, which have reached their highest level in nearly a decade.
With the increasing number of micromobility riders on city streets, it is crucial that everyone has the ability to share the roads safely. Protected bike lanes are incredibly important for ensuring the safety of cyclists and other micromobility riders. Additional protected bike lanes will likely also keep e-scooters and e-bikes off of sidewalks, lowering the risk for accidents involving pedestrians.
Drivers must also recognize their responsibility to safely share the roads with cyclists and e-mobility vehicles. All motorists have a legal duty to take reasonable care to see all hazards surrounding them, including e-scooters and e-bikes. Additionally, e-scooter and e-bike riders must take note of their surroundings and obey traffic laws when riding on roadways.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured as a result of negligent driving or other traffic hazards, it is important you understand your legal rights. The auto accident lawyers at Block O’Toole & Murphy have a proven track record in helping clients recover the compensation they legally deserve, including a $3,000,000 settlement for a woman who suffered injuries that required surgery when she was struck by a garbage truck that was illegally operating in a bike lane.
To discuss your case with one of our skilled attorneys today, call 212-736-5300 or fill out our online contact form.