Future Motion Inc., creator of the Onewheel electric skateboard, recently conceded to a pressured recall by federal regulators, amidst the weight of 135 filed lawsuits attributing to product-related injuries and fatalities. Ten months prior, despite warnings from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission urging consumers to cease use of the boards due to increasing incidents of serious injuries, Future Motion remained obstinate in its decision to recall.
This dynamic took an about-face last week when under a combined announcement made with the Commission, Future Motion initiated the recall, acknowledging injuries sustained by numerous riders and four deaths that took place between 2019 and 2021. Further details can be found in this report.
Of the dispute-related litigations, approximately 35 face Future Motion in federal courts, with a substantial portion exceeding 100 in California state courts. The recall, announced on September 29, leaves Future Motion wrestling with legal consequences while lessons are drawn from this incident about the urgent need for safety and accountability in the design and production of personal mobility devices.