Gift-giving is common around the holidays. People also give gifts to their loved ones to commemorate birthdays or special events like graduation. Gift-giving can be as exciting for the person who purchased the present as it is for the party receiving the gift.
Usually, the priority is purchasing something that will excite and amuse the recipient. People either purchase something a recipient has specifically asked for or something that is very popular. Unfortunately, in recent years, some of the most popular gifts have also been among the most dangerous. Those thinking about purchasing gifts that facilitate transportation, in particular, may need to educate themselves about recalls and defective products over the last few years because of the degree of risk involved before committing to a particular gift choice for a loved one.
E-bikes, e-scooters and hoverboards are dangerous
People ranging from adults with a youthful streak to those not yet old enough for a driver’s license are often interested in electric transportation devices. Micro-mobility products allow people to travel more quickly than they could on their own feet or on a basic small vehicle powered by the human body. These may include e-bikes and e-scooters.
These devices can reach much higher speeds than self-propelled scooters and bicycles. They allow even those with limited physical fitness to travel long distances, all without handling fuel. Hoverboards are a similar option with fewer transportation uses but more demand among young adults because of how entertaining they can be.
Unfortunately, any device with wiring and batteries comes with a certain degree of risk. In recent years, there have been multiple different recalls that occurred because of e-bikes, e-scooters and hoverboards. In 2022 alone, there were at least 19 reported deaths related to fires caused by e-bikes, e-scooters and hoverboards. Another 22 people required hospitalization due to burn injuries.
Issues with the wiring or the batteries on micro-mobility products can result in serious fires. There have been at least 208 separate instances in which these devices overheat to a dangerous point or burst into flames. Often, these incidents occur during charging, not active use. There are cases going back to 2017 involving serious fires, injuries and deaths.
Gift givers may need to look into recalls carefully, especially if buying used products. Ultimately, recognizing the possible risks created by defective products can take some of the risk out of giving gifts on special occasions.