Penn State Faces Negligence Lawsuit Over E-Scooter Crash That Injured 6-Year-Old Boy

A negligence lawsuit filed against Penn State University and freshman defensive tackle De'Andre Cook following a February e-scooter crash that left a 6-year-old boy seriously injured has raised significant questions about e-scooter safety and policy enforcement at educational institutions. The lawsuit, filed on November 12 by Shane Richard, the child's father, alleges that Cook failed to yield at a pedestrian crosswalk on North Burrowes Road, resulting in a collision with the young boy. The crash caused significant injuries to the child, including two pelvic fractures, a broken foot, and head injuries requiring four staples.

According to the legal complaint, the incident took place around 6:10 p.m. on February 18, 2024. Shane Richard and his son were crossing North Burrowes Road in a designated pedestrian crosswalk when Cook, described as 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 282 pounds, struck the 55-pound child while riding an electric scooter at high speed. The lawsuit not only targets Cook for his alleged negligence in operating the e-scooter but also implicates Penn State University for what the plaintiffs claim is a violation of its own policies. The family asserts that Penn State contributed to the incident by providing athletes access to banned scooters, despite a campus-wide prohibition on motorized scooters that do not meet Pennsylvania Vehicle Code requirements.

Rich Godshall, the attorney representing the child from Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers, emphasized the severity of the injuries. "This young boy endured severe physical trauma and faces a lengthy recovery due to decisions that prioritized convenience over safety," Godshall stated. The case brings to light the ongoing debate surrounding e-scooter use on college campuses and in urban areas. As these devices gain popularity for their convenience and eco-friendliness, incidents like this underscore the potential risks they pose to pedestrians and riders alike. The lawsuit may prompt other universities to reassess their policies regarding e-scooters and similar motorized devices on campus grounds.

Furthermore, the legal action raises questions about the responsibility of educational institutions in enforcing safety regulations and the potential consequences of granting exceptions to certain groups, such as student-athletes. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how universities manage transportation policies and ensure the safety of all individuals on campus. Penn State University has declined to comment on the pending litigation, adhering to its policy on such matters. Cook, who has already paid a fine for traffic violations related to the crash, has not publicly addressed the lawsuit.

As the legal proceedings unfold, this case may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions on e-scooter regulations, campus safety measures, and the balance between convenient transportation options and public safety. It also highlights the potential legal and financial risks that individuals and institutions may face when accidents occur involving these increasingly popular modes of transportation. The lawsuit seeks damages from both Cook and Penn State University, potentially setting a precedent for how similar incidents might be handled in the future. As e-scooters and other micromobility options continue to proliferate on college campuses and in cities across the country, the resolution of this case could influence policy decisions and safety measures well beyond the confines of Penn State's campus.