Personal mobility devices such as Segways and “hoverboards” were all the rage in 2015 and 2016. They may not be as popular as they once were years ago, but some people still swear by their personal mobility devices. All this, despite issues that plagued the contraptions over the years such as batteries that exploded into flames.
However, a manufacturer’s recent recall of its hoverboard devices serves as a reminder that these devices can still be unsafe to use despite advances in safety.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that manufacturer Future Motion is recalling all models of its Onewheel electric skateboards. The regulator explained that the electric skateboards could malfunction and violently eject riders from balancing on the board, causing fall accidents.
CPSC said Future Motion received dozens of accident reports related to its devices. Many of the injuries sustained by users led to concussions, fractures, paralysis, and even traumatic brain injury. At least four related incidents between 2019 and 2021 led to deaths.
The federal regulator advised all owners to immediately stop using the devices. The recall affects 300,000 electric skateboards sold from 2014 through September this year.
Future Motion will also roll out a new safety alert feature for newer models in the coming weeks, but older models can’t receive the update. Those who own older models that can’t receive the safety update can instead turn in their devices for a prorated refund.
Taking legal action for electric skateboard injuries
Manufacturers can be held liable for the injuries their defective products have caused. Whether they’re defective cars, toys, appliances – or in this case – electric skateboards, you can file a product liability lawsuit for damages.
Apart from seeking compensation for the injuries you’ve suffered from a defective product, you may be able to also recover punitive damages from the manufacturer. These can punish the manufacturer for their negligence and deter any future carelessness.
Nevertheless, product liability lawsuits are complicated processes. It’s also intimidating to go up against a large manufacturer, which could employ its vast resources to defend itself. If you plan to file a lawsuit, consider your legal options carefully.
