If you’re in the know, you’re probably familiar with e-scooters. While these motorized scooters can provide a fun way to get from A to B, accidents, and injuries are always a risk. E-scooters, or electric scooters, are kick scooters with a motor. They’ve risen in popularity in recent years, as several companies, like Bird and Lyft, have made them available for easy rental in major cities. All you have to do is rent one on an app and you’re off. Because they are inexpensive to rent, extremely convenient, and widely available, e-scooters are in high demand. They make commuting much easier — especially if you’re used to walking — and you can pick up and leave the scooters on any street corner but at the same time, e-scooter is dangerous. With the ease and advantages of using e-scooters, they’re here to stay. Unfortunately, so are e-scooter accidents.
The Dangers of E-Scooters
Like any type of vehicle, e-scooters present their own dangers. Some of the most significant risks of accidents and injuries riders face have to do with the following:
- Lack of Protection: Riders don’t usually wear protection when using these open vehicles, so they have a higher chance of suffering injuries in a crash
- Visibility: It’s harder for drivers to see e-scooters, contributing to the frequency of e-scooter accidents
- Stability: It is very easy to lose your balance on an e-scooter when a driver comes out of nowhere or the roads are dangerous
- Roadways: Uneven or unsafe roads can easily cause e-scooter riders to lose their balance and fall
These dangers, combined with other common risks, threaten riders’ safety.
Liability for E-Scooter Accident
Determining who is liable in an e-scooter accident is critical for potential compensation. Generally, in an e-scooter accident, liable parties can include negligent drivers or the city.
Negligent drivers can cause accidents due to their unsafe and irresponsible driving behaviors, including:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Aggressive driving
- Speeding
- Fatigued driving
Along with negligent drivers, the city itself may be liable for your injuries if, for example, your accident was caused by unsafe or damaged roads.
Establishing liability can be one of the most challenging parts of an e-scooter accident case. However, a scooter accident lawyer has the knowledge and skills to prove the at-fault party’s liability and work toward a favorable outcome.
What to Do if You’re Involved in an E-Scooter Accident
Any accident can be scary and traumatizing, especially if you’re on a scooter. Taking the following steps can protect your rights to future compensation when it comes time to file a claim.
Call 911
First and foremost, call 911. Ask for law enforcement assistance, and if you’ve sustained injuries, also ask for emergency medical services.
Police play a critical role in crashes. They can assist you at the scene and gather important information from all parties involved, as well as witnesses. Once officers have sufficient details, they can use the information gathered to create a police report. These accident reports are often crucial in collision claims.
Get Medical Attention
If you’ve suffered injuries in your e-scooter accident, let emergency medical technicians examine you and render aid. Some injuries can be serious and require immediate attention to avoid complications.
It’s worth noting that even if you believe you didn’t sustain any major injuries, it’s still important to see a doctor at an emergency room, urgent care, or your primary care office.
Allowing a medical professional to examine you thoroughly may uncover injuries you didn’t realize you suffered, like internal bleeding. This can help get you on the path to recovery much quicker and avoid the worsening of your condition.
Also, keep in mind that medical records are important pieces of evidence in scooter accident cases.
Exchange Information
If your accident involved another driver, exchange information with them if you’re able, including:
- Name and contact information
- Driver’s license details
- Insurance information
The other driver must provide you with these details, especially if you were injured. Many states have laws regarding drivers’ duties after collisions, including the exchange of information. Therefore, if the other party is being difficult and refusing to cooperate, they can face legal trouble.
Begin Gathering Evidence
If you’re able to, start collecting evidence at the scene of the accident. Evidence you’re able to get at the scene includes:
- Photos
- Videos
- Witness contact details
As more documentation and evidence becomes available, you or your attorney can obtain copies, including:
- Surveillance footage
- Traffic camera footage
- Police reports
- Medical records
Evidence can substantially help strengthen your case, giving you a better chance of obtaining the monetary recovery you deserve.
Contact an E-Scooter Accident Lawyer
E-scooter claims can be difficult to navigate on your own. Therefore, consulting with a personal injury lawyer at Joel Bieber early on can provide the answers and guidance you need while giving you peace of mind.
During your initial consultation, you can discuss your accident in detail with your attorney, show them any evidence you may have, and bring up your questions and concerns. Based on the information provided, the scooter accident lawyer can give you qualified advice and a better idea of the next steps to take for your claim.
Allow The Joel Bieber Firm to Help Make It Right
Traditional car accident claims can be challenging enough, but when a collision involves an e-scooter, your confusion, and stress can be overwhelming. The personal injury lawyers at The Joel Bieber Firm understand this and want to do everything possible to help you.
When you suffer injuries and losses after an e-scooter accident, don’t go at it alone. We have the tools and experience needed to handle your claim from beginning to end while protecting your rights and fighting for compensation.
Schedule your consultation with a electric scooter accident lawyer today.
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