Segways can often be seen in malls, beaches, and other outdoor spaces. While these transportation devices can be fun, they can also be dangerous. If you or your loved one has been injured on a Segway, you should reach out to a skilled Miami personal injury attorney who can assess the merits of your case. At the Law Offices of Robert Dixon, we understand the nuances of personal injury law and can apply our understanding to your case.
A Segway is a two-wheeled personal transport system that uses the weight of the rider to determine speed and direction. Segway riders lean forward to increase the speed and stand upright to slow down. A Segway’s top speed typically caps at 12.5 miles per hour, which may not seem very fast, but to put it into perspective, the average bicycle speed is around 9.6 miles per hour. As a result, Segway accidents can result in serious harm to a victim, including spinal cord injuries, broken bones, head injuries, facial injuries, and more.
According to a George Washington University study, Segways are extremely dangerous. The study examined the medical records of 41 people in Washington, D.C. who were admitted to emergency rooms at the university hospital from 2006 to 2008. The survey found that there was a steady increase in Segway injuries each year, and the overall percentage of serious injuries was even higher than for pedestrian accident injuries. Of the 41 documented injuries, 24 percent were for serious injuries that involved admission to the hospital.