NYC Scooter Service Shuts Down After 2 Rider Deaths In As Many Weeks

The electric moped sharing service, Revel, halted operations in New York City on Tuesday after learning of its second rider death in the past 10 days.

In a statement released via Twitter, Revel said the shutdown was with the intention of "reviewing and strengthening our rider accountability and safety measures and communicating with city officials, and we look forward to serving you again in the near future."

Mayor Bill de Blasio added that, while it's important to explore transportation alternatives to automobiles in the city, "safety on our streets is paramount."

City officials spoke with Revel executives Tuesday, explaining that the scooter company's safety record is "unacceptable," the mayor added.

Revel's suspension of service came 8 hours after a Brooklyn man died after crashing a Revel scooter in Queens. The NYPD reported that 32-year-old Jeremy Malave struck a light pole in a median on Woodhaven Boulevard and died of head injuries.

On July 18, 26-year-old CBS reporter Nina Kapur was killed in a moped crash in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Kapur and the driver were thrown from the vehicle after it swerved "for an unknown reason."

She was pronounced dead at the hospital. The driver suffered minor injuries.

Revel said at the time that it was investigating the incident and fully cooperating with the NYPD.

Revel mopeds are available in several major cities around the country. Anyone over 21 with a valid driver's license can use the app and unlock one for $1.

The vehicles can drive at up to 30 miles per hour.

Photo: Getty Images


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content