In the last few years, there has been an increase in the number of electric bikes and scooters. Also known as e-bikes and e-scooters, these small, self-propelled vehicles are cheap in comparison to larger vehicles. They are also accessible to tweens and teens. Some people use them for commuting to work or school, but many people simply ride these devices recreationally.
While they may be fun and affordable, e-bikes and e-scooters can also be relatively dangerous. Crashes while riding an e-scooter or e-bike can lead to severe injuries. They can also be dangerous even when not in use. Consumers need to be aware of the possibility of these devices causing fires because of their internal batteries and charging systems.
Charging can lead to safety hazards
There have been multiple recalls of e-bikes, e-scooters and even hoverboards over the last decade. All of these devices have internal lithium-ion batteries that can become fire hazards. Factors ranging from improper charging stations to faulty design and manufacturing mistakes can contribute to the risk of a fire occurring.
Small defects that consumers fail to notice can increase the risk of a fire during charging. Even devices that technically meet safety standards can be unsafe if there are issues with a particular production batch due to the mistakes of a worker at a factory.
Consumer safety organizations warn that e-bike and e-scooter charging should occur outside of the home whenever possible. It is also beneficial to monitor the charging vehicles and disconnect them promptly once the batteries are full.
What rights do consumers have?
In scenarios where e-bikes, e-scooters or hoverboards cause fires that damage property or injure people, consumers may have grounds to take legal action. Inadequate safety instructions, defective design or faulty manufacturing can all provide justification for consumers to hold businesses accountable for dangerous products. Those affected by e-bikes or e-scooters that caused fires can potentially seek compensation for their economic losses.
Evaluating a situation that could lead to a product liability lawsuit can help those harmed by unsafe products take appropriate action. Filing a lawsuit may be a reasonable response to an e-bike or an e-scooter catching fire while charging.