Denver, CO personal injury attorney George McLaughlin talks about what makes OneWheel electric skateboards so dangerous. There exist two fundamental issues with the Onewheel that render them dangerous, leading to injuries. The company, acknowledging the primary concern, especially with the Onewheel GT electric skateboard, identifies a problem with the foot pad. When riders utilize these devices with one foot in front and one foot in the back, the front foot pad, specifically, can fail to halt the product’s operation or disengage after the rider dismounts while the board is in motion. This malfunction results in the skateboard unexpectedly continuing to operate, posing a risk of injury to bystanders.

An illustrative incident involves a client’s four-year-old stepdaughter who suffered a broken foot when the skateboard shot out from under her stepfather as he dismounted. This incident, recorded on a Ring camera, prompted a recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on August 11, 2022, in collaboration with the company.

The second issue arises during Onewheel operation when the battery reaches full charge. The design incorporates a “push back” mechanism intended to alert riders to the charging status. However, in numerous instances, the push back, especially at speeds of 15-18 miles per hour, causes riders to lose balance and fall. Despite experienced riders encountering this problem, the company resisted recalling the products for an extended period. On November 16, 2022, a CPSC commissioner issued a press release titled “Future Motion Refuses to Recall Deadly Onewheel Skateboard,” publicly denouncing the company’s reluctance and urging users to immediately cease using all Onewheel electric skateboards due to the serious risk of injury and death.

Eventually, on September 29, 2023, the company initiated a recall covering all Onewheel skateboards, involving 300,000 units sold. The CPSC’s recall notice, titled “Future Motion Recalls Onewheel Self-Balancing Electric Skateboards Due to Crash Hazard – Four Deaths Reported,” outlined the hazard of the skateboards ceasing to balance the rider if the board’s limits were exceeded, posing a crash hazard leading to serious injury or death. The provided remedy was either a refund or repair. While the company remains in operation, users are strongly advised to discontinue the use of these recalled skateboards and return them to the company for a refund or repair. Individuals who have suffered injuries due to these issues are encouraged to consider pursuing a legal claim.