Lime & Bird Electric Scooter Accident Attorneys

man next to an electric scooter in Los AngelesFrom the Santa Monica Pier, to the streets of San Francisco, Los Angeles, and beyond, motorized scooters have become a common sight in California since companies such as Bird Rides Inc., LimeBike and Spin began operating scooter share programs in the state. Pitched as convenient, ecologically sustainable modes of transportation, electric scooters pose an increased injury risk to riders, pedestrians, and motorists. Determining who is responsible in a motorized scooter accident can be complicated, however, which makes having proper legal representation essential.

J&Y Law is prepared to handle personal injury claims arising from electric scooter accidents in Northern and Southern California. Well-versed in the relevant provisions of the California Vehicle Code (the Code) regarding motorized scooters, we are highly regarded for being dedicated advocates of injury victims. We believe that no one should needlessly suffer because of another’s negligence and will fight for your right to just compensation.

What is an electric scooter?

A motorized scooter is a two-wheeled device powered by an electric motor that has handlebars, a floorboard to stand on, and can travel up to 15 miles per hour. It is worth noting that the Code imposes certain requirements on riders — all must wear a helmet and have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit. In addition, riders cannot operate a scooter with a passenger, travel on sidewalks, carry packages that prevent them from keeping one hand on the handlebars at all times, leave a scooter laying on the sidewalk, or otherwise impede pedestrian traffic.

How do scooter share programs work?

Similar to rideshare services, scooter share programs are managed through a smartphone app. Basically, the rider opens the app to locate nearby available scooters, selects one, scans a code on the scooter to unlock it, rides to a destination, and locks the scooter up, leaving it available for the next rider.

Types of Electric Scooter Accidents

Motorized scooters can become involved in all types of accidents, such as single scooter crashes caused by a mechanical function or road hazards — potholes, debris or fallen branches. Pedestrians can also be struck by a motorized scooter rider or sustain an injury trying to avoid being hit by a scooter. Similarly, scooter riders can crash after trying to avoid another scooter rider, a pedestrian, bicyclist, motor vehicle, or another obstacle. Much like motorcyclists, lectric scooter riders are also at risk of being injured in dooring accidents, left turn accidents, and other collisions with motor vehicle drivers.

Who is liable in a motorized scooter accident?

Determining liability in a motorized scooter accident and recovering compensation if you are injured can be daunting. It is important to note that motorized scooter operators are not required to carry liability insurance. If a scooter rider hits a passenger, for example, the rider may be legally responsible for any injuries; however, holding the rider accountable may hinge on whether or not he or she has homeowner’s or renters insurance.

If the scooter malfunctions and the rider is injured, on the other hand, the scooter share company and the manufacturer may be held liable. The challenge here lies in proving that company was aware of the defect and failed to take corrective action. Moreover, motorized scooters are primarily manufactured by Chinese-based companies and obtaining damages from these entities presents unique challenges.

When a scooter operator is injured in a collision with a motor vehicle, a claim can be pursued against the driver, provided that we can show he or she was at fault. This requires proving the following elements of negligence:

  • The other driver had a duty to operate his or her vehicle in a safe manner
  • The other driver breached that duty
  • The actions of the other driver caused the accident
  • The accident directly caused your injuries and monetary losses

Finally, we may be able to pursue a municipal liability claim against the responsible government agency if the accident was caused by poorly maintained roads, curbs, sidewalks, or defective traffic signals. In any event, the complexities involved in motorized scooter accidents make it crucial to have J&Y Law by your side.

Call Us Today If You Were Injured While Riding A Bird, Lime, Or Any Other Electric Scooter

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving an electric scooter anywhere in California, we can help. Our legal team has extensive experience pursuing personal injury claims and a proven track record of achieving successful outcomes for our clients. We will take the time to understand all the facts surrounding your electric scooter accident and determine whether you have a viable injury claim.

Our reliable, tenacious attorneys will fight for your right to meaningful compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. J&Y Law handles all personal injury claims on a contingency basis, which means you will not pay any attorneys’ fees until we recover money for you. Call our office today or complete the convenient online contact form to set up a free consultation.