Rider Information Skateboarding
Table of Contents
- Onewheel Electric Skateboard Recall Information
- Primary Hazards of Electric Skateboards
- How to Reduce the Risk of Electric Skateboard Injuries
- What Parents Can Do after a Skateboard Crash Injury
- Legal Options for Skateboard Recall Injuries
In 2023, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Future Motion, Inc. announced a recall of more than 300,000 electric skateboards due to fatal crash hazards. This recall, which affects Onewheel electric skateboards, is a matter of great concern for parents. With reports of injuries and deaths associated with these skateboards, it is crucial for parents to be aware of the risks and take action to hold negligent manufacturers accountable.
Onewheel Electric Skateboard Recall Information
The CPSC and Future Motion Inc. issued a voluntary recall of all Onewheel models on October 3, 2023. This recall was prompted by a crash hazard that could lead to serious injury or death. The recall applies to all Onewheel electric skateboards sold online and through independent retailers between January 2014 and September 2023. The affected products include:
Onewheel
Onewheel+
Onewheel+ XR
Onewheel Pint
Onewheel Pint X
Onewheel GT models
These skateboards were sold both in stores and online. The CPSC has received numerous reports of incidents involving Onewheel electric skateboards, including four reported deaths between 2019 and 2021. According to the CPSC, at least three of the deaths involved head trauma. Additionally, there have been reports of injuries such as traumatic brain injury, concussions, paralysis, fractures, and ligament damage.
The CPSC has determined that Onewheel electric skateboards can lose balance if the rider exceeds the board's weight limit, rides too fast, or rides on steep inclines or declines. In response to this issue, Future Motion is developing a firmware update that will introduce a new safety alert feature called "haptic buzz." This feature will provide riders with a tactile and audible alert when they approach the board's limits. The firmware update is expected to be released in the near future.
In the meantime, the CPSC advises all Onewheel owners to stop using their skateboards immediately. If you own a recalled Onewheel skateboard, you should contact Future Motion for a refund or replacement.
Primary Hazards of Electric Skateboards
While not all electric skateboards are as dangerous as the Onewheel models subject to the recall, there are some general hazards associated with riding these boards that parents should be aware of. Skateboard crashes can result in various injuries, some of which can be severe or even life-threatening. Here are some potential dangers:
1.Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are a significant concern in skateboard crashes, ranging from concussions to more severe TBIs. Wearing a helmet is crucial to reduce the risk of these injuries.
2.Fractures and Dislocations: Skateboarders can sustain fractures in various parts of the body, such as the wrist, arm, ankle, or leg. Dislocations of joints are also possible.
3.Sprains and Strains: Skateboarders may suffer from sprains (ligament injuries) and strains (muscle injuries), resulting in pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
4.Road Rash: Falling on rough pavement can cause road rash, a painful skin injury. It can range from minor scrapes to deep wounds requiring medical attention.
5.Abrasions and Contusions: Minor injuries like cuts, bruises, and scrapes are common in skateboard crashes but can still be painful and require attention.
6.Internal Injuries: In some cases, skateboard crashes can lead to internal injuries, such as organ damage, which may not be immediately apparent but can be serious.
7.Sprained or Fractured Ankles: Landing awkwardly on the skateboard can result in ankle injuries, including sprains and fractures.
8.Concussions: Even with a helmet, a blow to the head can cause a concussion. These injuries should be taken seriously, as they can have long-term effects on cognitive function.
9.Lacerations: Falling on sharp objects or colliding with obstacles can result in cuts that may require stitches or medical attention.
10.Emotional and Psychological Impact: Skateboard crashes can be emotionally and psychologically distressing, leading to anxiety, fear, or post-traumatic stress.
To reduce the risk of these injuries, skateboarders should always wear appropriate safety gear, skate within their skill level, be aware of their surroundings, choose safe skateboarding areas, learn how to fall safely, and practice responsible skateboarding.
How to Reduce the Risk of Electric Skateboard Injuries
To minimize the dangers of skateboard crashes, it is important for skateboarders to take safety precautions:
1.Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards.
2.Skate within your skill level and practice proper skateboarding techniques.
3.Be aware of your surroundings, including traffic and obstacles on the road.
4.Choose skateboarding areas that are safe and suitable for your skill level.
5.Learn how to fall safely, if possible, to reduce the risk of injury.
While skateboarding can be a fun and exhilarating activity, it is not without risks. By following these safety measures and practicing responsible skateboarding, the likelihood and severity of injuries in the event of a crash can be significantly reduced.
What Parents Can Do after a Skateboard Crash Injury
If a child is injured by a recalled skateboard or any other skateboard, parents should take the following steps to ensure the child's safety and protect their legal rights:
1.Seek Immediate Medical Attention: The child's health and well-being should be the top priority. If the child is injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even seemingly minor injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out any hidden or latent issues.
2.Preserve Evidence: Keep the skateboard and any related parts or components that may have caused the injury. This evidence may be crucial if legal action becomes necessary.
3.Report the Incident: Contact the manufacturer or distributor of the skateboard to report the injury. This helps them keep track of incidents and can potentially lead to product improvements or recalls.
4.Document the Injury: Take photographs of the child's injuries, as well as the skateboard and any parts that may have contributed to the accident. If possible, document the scene of the incident as well.
5.Keep Medical Records: Retain all medical records, bills, and documentation related to the child's injury. This includes hospital records, doctor's notes, and any prescribed treatments or medications.
6.Check for Recalls: Stay informed about any skateboard recalls or safety alerts related to the skateboard in question. This information can usually be found on the manufacturer's website, the CPSC website, or through other relevant consumer protection agencies.
7.Consult with an Attorney: Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in product liability cases. They can provide guidance on your legal rights and potential avenues for compensation. Product liability laws may hold the manufacturer or distributor responsible for injuries caused by defective products.
Legal Options for Skateboard Recall Injuries
Parents have legal options for pursuing justice and compensation if their child is injured by a recalled skateboard or any other defective product. These options may include:
1.Product Liability Claims: If the skateboard manufacturer is found to be negligent in producing a dangerous product, a product liability claim can be pursued. There are generally three types of product liability claims: design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to provide adequate warnings or instructions.
2.Class Action Lawsuit: If multiple individuals have been injured by the same recalled skateboard, there may be a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer. Consulting with an attorney can help you determine if you can be a part of such legal action.
In children's product liability claims, various types of damages may be available to compensate for injuries or harm caused by a defective or dangerous product. These damages can include:
- Medical Expenses
- Pain and Suffering
- Lost Quality of Life
- Permanent Disability or Disfigurement
- Lost Future Earnings
- Punitive Damages
To pursue damages related to a skateboard recall or other product-related injury, it is advisable to consult with an experienced product liability lawyer who can evaluate your case and help you understand your legal rights and options.