Trusted Onewheel Accident Attorneys in Salt Lake City, Utah

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The OneWheel, a self-balancing electric skateboard, has gained popularity as a fun and innovative mode of transportation. Its unique design and versatility make it a common sight in Salt Lake City, whether on sidewalks, bike lanes, or urban trails. However, the OneWheel’s design and technology come with inherent risks, and riders often experience serious injuries due to accidents or product defects.

OneWheel accidents in Salt Lake City can occur on busy streets, trails like the Jordan River Parkway, or private driveways. Issues such as sudden “nosedives,” loss of balance, or mechanical malfunctions can result in devastating injuries for riders and those nearby. At Swenson & Shelley, our Salt Lake County personal injury lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents can take. Our experienced Utah law firm is here to provide compassionate, results-driven representation to help you recover compensation for your injuries, starting with a free consultation.

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OneWheel skateboard

Who Can Be Held Liable for OneWheel Accidents in Salt Lake City, Utah?

Due to the device’s unique design, potential defects, and the environments it is used, OneWheel accidents often result in serious injuries. Determining liability is a crucial step in seeking compensation.

Depending on the circumstances, multiple parties may share responsibility for a OneWheel accident, including:

  • Manufacturers

Manufacturers of OneWheel devices have a duty to design and produce safe products for consumers.

Examples of Manufacturer Liability:

  • Defective Design: Sudden nosedives or instability during use, common issues in OneWheel devices, can lead to crashes.
  • Manufacturing Defects: Faulty motors, batteries, or sensors that malfunction and cause accidents.
  • Inadequate Warnings or Instructions: Failing to provide clear guidance on safe use or potential risks.

If a defect or lack of proper warnings contributed to the accident, the manufacturer can be held accountable under product liability laws.

  • Retailers

Retailers selling OneWheel devices also bear responsibility for ensuring that the products they provide are safe and reliable.

Examples of Retailer Negligence:

  • Selling defective or recalled OneWheel devices.
  • Failing to inform buyers about potential risks or known safety issues.

If a retailer knowingly sold a faulty product or failed to address safety concerns, they may share liability for injuries caused by the device.

  • Other Third Parties

Other individuals or entities may also contribute to OneWheel accidents through negligence.

Examples of Third-Party Liability:

  • Drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians who act recklessly or fail to yield, causing a collision.
  • Rental companies provide poorly maintained OneWheel devices.

Third-party negligence can significantly contribute to accidents, making them partially or fully liable for damages.

Are OneWheel Product Defects Common?

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a significant safety issue with Onewheel self-balancing electric skateboards. These devices can suddenly stop balancing riders when their operational limits are exceeded, leading to a high likelihood of severe crashes.

In response to these dangers, federal regulators have issued a recall of all Onewheel models following reports of at least four fatalities and numerous serious injuries over the past several years.

The recall encompasses approximately 300,000 skateboards manufactured by Future Motion, a California-based company. According to reports, Onewheel accidents have resulted in devastating outcomes, including fatalities, paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, fractures, and ligament damage.

The CPSC has urged owners of affected Onewheel models, sold online and through independent retailers between January 2014 and September 2023, to stop using the devices immediately.

The recall includes the following models:

  • Onewheel
  • Onewheel+
  • Onewheel+ XR
  • Onewheel Pint
  • Onewheel Pint X
  • Onewheel GT

Given the severity of the risks involved, users are strongly advised to take the recall seriously to prevent further injuries or loss of life.

What Injuries Are Common in OneWheel Accidents?

OneWheel accidents can result in serious, life-altering injuries, including:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

OneWheel accidents frequently lead to head injuries, particularly when riders are not wearing helmets. Falls from the device or collisions with vehicles, objects, or other riders can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive impairments or permanent disability. Head trauma is one of the most critical injuries associated with OneWheel accidents due to its potential to cause life-altering consequences and the need for extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

  • Broken Bones and Fractures

The sudden impact from a OneWheel accident often causes riders to instinctively use their arms to break their fall, resulting in broken wrists, arms, or collarbones. Legs and ankles are also common fracture sites, particularly in cases where the rider loses control due to a nosedive or abrupt stop. Broken bones can be debilitating, requiring surgery, physical therapy, and significant recovery time. These injuries often affect mobility and overall quality of life, especially for those who rely on physical fitness for work or recreation.

  • Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe consequences of a OneWheel accident. High-impact crashes, particularly those involving sudden falls onto hard surfaces, can result in herniated discs, nerve damage, or even paralysis. These injuries can lead to a lifetime of medical challenges, including chronic pain, loss of mobility, or the need for assistive devices. Victims often face ongoing expenses for treatment and rehabilitation, making compensation vital for their recovery and quality of life.

  • Facial Injuries

Falls from a OneWheel can result in severe facial injuries, as riders often fall forward onto their face or collide with obstacles during a crash. These injuries may include fractures to the nose, jaw, or cheekbones, along with lacerations and bruising. Dental injuries, such as broken or lost teeth, are also common. Facial injuries can be particularly distressing due to their visible nature, often requiring reconstructive surgery, dental repairs, or long-term cosmetic treatments to restore functionality and appearance.

  • Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries

When riders slide on pavement or rough surfaces after falling from a OneWheel, they often suffer road rash and other soft tissue injuries. Road rash can range from mild abrasions to deep wounds requiring medical attention and potential skin grafts. Soft tissue injuries, such as torn ligaments, sprained joints, and muscle damage, are also prevalent. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and prolonged recovery periods, making comprehensive medical care and rehabilitation essential.

If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a OneWheel accident, Swenson & Shelley can help.

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Contact Our Leading OneWheel Accident and Injury Lawyers in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you or someone close to you has been hurt in a OneWheel accident in Salt Lake City, it’s crucial to take action quickly. At Swenson & Shelley, we are here to manage the complexities of your case so you can prioritize your recovery. Contact us today by calling 801-447-5464 or completing our online contact form to arrange a free consultation. During this no-obligation session, we’ll evaluate your situation and provide clear guidance on whether you can move forward with legal action.

Accident Victims Deserve The Relentless Pursuit of Justice™ that our firm can bring. Let us help you seek justice and the compensation you deserve.

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