SANTA CRUZ, Calif. — OneWheel riders are being urged to halt the use of their electric skateboards following numerous reports of injuries and four reported deaths. The U.S. Consumer Product Commission recalled 300,000 electric skateboards manufactured by Santa Cruz-based company, Future Motion, due to safety concerns. According to the commission’s report, the skateboards may cease to balance the rider if the board’s limits are exceeded, posing a potential crash hazard leading to serious injury or death. Reported injuries include traumatic brain injury, concussion, paralysis, and fractures, with at least three of the victims not wearing a helmet.
Local residents have expressed concern over the injuries and deaths linked to the electric skateboards. The owner of Covewater Surf Shop, which sold the OneWheel boards, believes the incidents may be attributed to rider error, emphasizing that the number of reported mishaps is minimal compared to the high volume of boards sold. While acknowledging the potential financial impact of the recall on his business, the shop owner remains confident in the community’s support for the product and the lifestyle it represents.
Users of the OneWheel models under recall, including the OneWheel GT, OneWheel Pint X, OneWheel Pint, and the OneWheel+ XR, are advised to download updates for the OneWheel app that include a buzz alert function. This feature is designed to provide riders with a buzzing sensation when the board approaches its limits. The commission had previously issued a warning to users about a possible ejection hazard associated with the electric skateboards.
In conclusion, the safety concerns surrounding the OneWheel electric skateboards have prompted a significant recall by the U.S. Consumer Product Commission. The reports of injuries and deaths, along with the potential impact on local vendors, have raised questions about the safety and regulation of motorized skateboards. Users are advised to take precautionary measures, including downloading updates for the OneWheel app, to reduce the risk of accidents associated with the product.