@goodblake-eskate said in Almost destroyed my elbow and my neighbor's car, wtf?:
@Wrex I can definitely see the benefits of a leash and how simply it could be implemented. However I think the potential negatives might out weigh the positives. Any accidental activation of this kill switch while riding at speed would have much greater consequences than a runaway board at presumably lesser speed. The chances of someone getting hurt from the board shutting off while riding at speed are almost 100% and basically it is just a matter of how badly. Where as the chances of a runaway board running away and hitting some one or something of value are much smaller.
I know some will argue to make it so there is no possible chance for it activated while riding, but I don't see how this is possible. Using a physical leash seems to be the most full proof as far simplicity of technology and ensuring it only activates when the pin is pulled presumably by one jumping off their board etc. However they would have to make it long enough for one to have it attached and still be able to shift their weight, change stance, etc while riding and not engage. However by having a little slack it provides potential for it get hung on any number of things while riding such as a bush, stick rock, pant leg, a pedestrian, the dog trying to bite you as you ride by, or if you are @slydogstroh you may catch it on someone's bumper as you fly by. Sure you could make it coiled but the potential of it getting hung is still there just less. Then using a digital / electric leash = technology = potential issues. Not sure I need to say more about that.
Sorry for the long post but these are my thoughts
Don't be sorry. They're good thoughts and valid and I think it's good to talk it over. I was thinking about the potential for issues with a coiled leash or any that has enough length to to get caught on stuff, as well.
Maybe forget the power disconnect part of the idea and just have a leash that is retractable, like those badge leashes a lot of us have for our work (Not sure what else to call those). Something like that, but stronger filament. No power disconnect. Just a leash so that if the board does get away, the worst that might happen is you ruin a belt loop or get a firm jerk on your wrist (should you cuff it there or something). The board would likely shut off by the time you recover it anyway, but would be enough to keep it from darting out into traffic, causing a car wreck or hitting a pedestrian near by and hurting them.
i just think there has got to be some solution that can be beneficial.