Vehicle Safety and Defects: Are Segways Dangerous?

Segway Inc. has been struggling lately to expand their brand after first hitting the market in 2003.

However, aside from its steep price, there are also some questions about the safety of the personal transporter.

These safety questions became more glaring after the owner of Segway Inc., 62-year-old James Heselden,   was killed in a Segway accident in late September.

According to reports, Heselden was killed when he fell off a 30-foot cliff while riding his segway.

So the question remains, are Segways safe?

Well, the first key to understanding the Segway is to understand how it works.

Segways run through a design system that combines stabilization technology and propulsion mechanisms with an intelligent network of control systems..This allows the personal transporter to expertly adjust to the terrain while keeping the rider balanced in the platform.

However, as with any new and complicated technologies, a few major glitches have been discovered that could harm its riders.

Some of the safety concerns related to the Segway include:

• Software glitches
• Sudden acceleration
• Unintentional sudden stop
• Difficulty in controls.

In fact, two product recalls of Segway transporters due to two of the above defects have already been done.

The first one happened in 2003, shortly after the personal transporter was launched in the market. The recall was made due to complaints that the Segway suddenly stops once the transporter runs out of battery. This caused people to suddenly fall off from the personal transporter.

The second recall was made in 2006, where a software glitch caused the personal transporter to move in high speeds after the rider tried to move backwards. Again, this defect caused a lot of Segway fall accidents.

Due to these safety issues, Segway Inc. released some safety tips that can help you avoid these crashes.

This includes:

• Taking the 15-25 minute training given by the retailer to familiarize yourself with the transporter in a controlled environment.
• If you have mobility issues then it is recommended that you do not ride a Segway.
• You have to be 16 and above to ride a Segway; riders below 18 needs to be monitored by a parent or guardian.
• Be aware of the speed limiter
• Discontinue riding once you get a low battery alert
• Avoid aggressive riding

If you have been injured in a Segway accident, consult with an aggressive los angeles personal injury attorney to know your legal options.


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