Glitch in Lime scooters causes them to unexpectedly brake

AUSTIN, Texas — A bug detected in the firmware of the Lime scooter fleet has been found to, under rare circumstances, cause sudden excessive braking during use, according to a safety update from Lime scooter. 

After extensive analysis from the Lime team, and additional experts, they diagnosed the issue in a laboratory experiment and determined in a few rare cases, usually riding downhill at top speed while hitting a pothole or other obstacle, excessive brake force on the front wheel can occur, resulting in a scooter stopping unexpectedly.

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"A final update is now being dispatched to every Lime scooter in the market and will be complete shortly," A representative from Lime said. "We are also proactively working with consumer protection agencies around the world to ensure we meet their rigorous safety expectations."

This issue has affected less than 0.0045% of all Lime rides, some riders have been injured, though most have been bumps and bruises, according to the Lime statement.

Data shows scooters are a safe form of transportation, comparable to or safer than bicycles. Lime wants riders to ask the following questions, and to take similar precautions to those you would take when riding a bike:  

1. Before starting your Lime trip, walk around the scooter and do a visual inspection of the hardware. Is the vehicle body in good condition? If not, don’t use that vehicle; report it to our customer service team and then select another vehicle.
   
   
2. Once you start your Lime trip, give the brake a tight squeeze. If the brake does not engage properly and immediately stop the vehicle, dismount, end the trip and notify Lime customer service.
   
   
3. Use extra caution in the next few days while we issue the final firmware update -- especially when riding downhill.  Always stay in full control of your scooter and don’t go full speed while riding downhill.
   
   
4. Comply with any scooter audible or visual warnings to slow or adjust your speed.
   
   
5. Ride defensively: wear a helmet and reflective or bright clothing, respect the right of way and be cautious of other cars, trucks and pedestrians, don’t ever ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and always ride in bike lanes when available.
   
   
6. Ride smart: follow the rules of the road, keep both hands on the handle bars, don’t use your mobile device while riding and avoid wearing headphones.