NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - Segway LLC has recalled all 6,000 of its human transporters sold to date because of a falling hazard, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced Friday.
When the batteries on the devices begin to run low, according to an announcement from Segway and the CPSC, there may not be enough power to keep the machine upright. Falls could happen if the rider speeds up abruptly, encounters an obstacle or continues to ride after receiving a low-battery alert.
The CPSC said Segway has received three reports of injuries that, according to the announcement, may be due to this problem. In one incident, the user sustained a head injury requiring stitches.
Segway said owners should call the company at 877-889-9020 for information about receiving a software upgrade to correct the problem. Segway is also contacting owners directly.
| Related story
|
|
|
|
|
All Segways shipped as of today will have the upgraded software, according to an announcement released by the company. They will be labeled to reflect the upgrade.
On a Segway Human Transporter, the rider stands on a platform between two wheels, one on each side. The machine is powered by an electric motor. The rider steers by leaning forward or back or, to turn, by turning handlebars. Gyroscopes and computers are used to maintain balance. They can travel at a top speed of 12.5 miles per hour. They cost about $5,000.
|
