For college students, navigating campus often requires creative transportation. One popular option is onewheel skateboards and electric unicycles. These self-balancing skateboards can be fun and convenient, but accidents happen and can leave riders or bystanders injured.
The Rise of Onewheel Skateboards on Campus
Depending on the model, onewheel skateboard can reach speeds between 16 and 25mph. They have a single, large tire at the center, and riders use their balance and body movements to control the board through pressure-sensitive pads. Features like battery life, lighting, and customization of your ride profile is all controlled by a smartphone app. Given the speed and unique control of these devices, it is very important that riders are confident before using a onewheel skateboard before bringing it onto a busy college campus.
Campus Hazards and Liability
There can be many hidden dangers when riding through a college campus that can harm you or loved ones when using onewheels. Some of these can include:
- Uneven sidewalks or pavements: can cause riders to loose balance
- Tree roots: may push up through walkways, creating tripping hazards
- Loose gravel: increases risk of slipping or skidding
- Potholes: can lead to sudden falls or injuries
- Dim or flickering lights: reduce visibility at night
- Wet leaves, ice, and snow: create slippery conditions in colder months
If the campus fails to maintain safe walkways, it could be liable for injuries under premise liability law. In some cases, the college campus may be responsible for maintaining safe conditions and could be liable for injuries.
Student Liability
Even if you do not own a onewheel, many of your classmates might. These students can be careless riders, disregard signage. They even can ignore signs of faulty breaks, drive aggressively in a crowd, and preform reckless stunts. If you are involved in a onewheel skateboard accident with another student, it is important to exchange contact information and document the incident, like a bicycle or scooter accident. If they are still learning how to use these devices safely, there are great risks of accidents.
How Fielding Law Can Help
Whether your accident was caused by poor campus maintenance or the negligent riding of a student, Fielding Law is here to support you every step of the way. We are committed to helping you heal physically and emotionally, because we know first-hand how life-altering these types of onewheel skateboard college campus accidents can be. Reach out whenever you are ready at 833.88 SHARK for your free consultation today.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.