In cities where traffic is brutal, and you’ve got places to be, a rental vehicle like a bicycle, scooter, or moped might be the easiest way to get around. For Revel, a moped rental service, you only need $5, a valid driver’s license, and the company’s phone app to get around town.
The appeal of electric rental services has grown over the years. But just as there are many pros to the service, there are also many cons. Be aware of both so you can make informed decisions and stay safe.
Benefits of e-rental vehicles
Rental services like Revel provide commuters with an alternative form of transportation. Not everyone can afford a car or even the price of a taxi. Rental vehicles can be more cost-effective for getting around town without having to worry about parking, either.
As these services also run electrically, they can help cut down on the use of fossil fuels as an environmentally friendly choice for transportation.
The convenience of these rental services is also a benefit. All you need is the app on your phone, and you can easily take a bike or scooter out for a ride. You have more control over your schedule.
Cons of e-rental vehicles
In just a handful of months since Revel first launched in New York City in 2019, the company has faced seven personal injury lawsuits. These lawsuits have been filed by drivers of their mopeds as well as other individuals who were injured due to Revel renters.
Many of these rental companies do not supply training for using their vehicles, nor do they offer safety equipment such as helmets or padding. Extreme weather such as rain and snow can cause even more trouble for these products and those driving them.
As more cities across New York move toward adopting more and more of these app-based riding services, the more we will need to be careful on the road. Don’t let the excitement of trying out a moped or scooter stop you from being safe and responsible too.