At Meyers & Burnett Personal Injury Attorneys, we have seen firsthand the increasing number of accidents involving electric scooters (e-scooters) across California. Once considered a novel and convenient way to navigate busy city streets, e-scooters have now become a common fixture in urban areas, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. However, with their rise in popularity comes an alarming increase in accidents and injuries, leaving many victims unsure of their legal rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an electric scooter accident, it is essential to understand who may be responsible and what steps you can take to seek compensation. Below, we break down the legal landscape of e-scooter accidents in California, including common causes, liability issues, and how our legal team at Meyers & Burnett can help protect your rights.
The Rise of E-Scooters in California
California has embraced the micromobility revolution, with companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin placing thousands of e-scooters on city streets. Riders can rent these scooters with a mobile app, making them an attractive alternative to traditional transportation. However, the rapid expansion of e-scooters has outpaced safety regulations, leading to:
A significant increase in emergency room visits related to e-scooter accidents
Higher collision rates between e-scooter riders and pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicles
Legal confusion regarding who is responsible for damages when an accident occurs
According to a University of California San Francisco study, the number of e-scooter-related injuries in the U.S. nearly tripled between 2014 and 2018, with California cities accounting for a large portion of these incidents. Head injuries, fractures, and soft tissue damage were among the most common injuries reported.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents
At Meyers & Burnett, we have handled numerous personal injury cases involving e-scooters. Many of these accidents occur due to a combination of rider behavior, infrastructure issues, and negligence by third parties. The most frequent causes include:
Hazardous Road Conditions – Potholes, uneven sidewalks, and road debris create dangerous obstacles for e-scooter riders. Since most scooters have small wheels and lack suspension, even minor surface imperfections can cause a crash.
Collisions with Vehicles – Many e-scooter accidents involve motor vehicles. Drivers often fail to yield to riders or do not see them in their blind spots, leading to serious injuries in crosswalks or bike lanes.
Pedestrian Accidents – Riders sometimes use sidewalks illegally or lose control, causing accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists, and other scooter users.
Defective or Malfunctioning Scooters – E-scooter companies have been sued for brake failures, battery fires, and sudden accelerations that put riders at risk. If a defective scooter caused your accident, you may have a product liability case.
Riding Under the Influence – Some e-scooter riders operate while intoxicated, leading to impaired judgment, loss of control, and avoidable collisions.
Understanding California’s E-Scooter Laws
California has implemented strict regulations to improve e-scooter safety. However, many riders are unaware of these laws, which can impact accident claims.
Where Can You Ride? – E-scooters are not allowed on sidewalks and must be ridden in bike lanes or on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less.
Helmet Laws – Riders under 18 are required to wear a helmet. While adults are not legally obligated to wear one, doing so reduces head injury risk.
Speed Limit – The maximum speed for e-scooters is 15 mph. Exceeding this limit may impact liability in an accident.
License Requirement – Riders must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit to operate an e-scooter legally.
Failing to follow these regulations does not automatically disqualify you from pursuing an injury claim, but it can affect how fault is determined in a personal injury case.
Who Is Liable for an E-Scooter Accident?
Determining liability in e-scooter accidents can be complicated, as multiple parties may be responsible for injuries.
Scooter Companies (Bird, Lime, Spin, etc.) – If a defective or poorly maintained scooter causes an accident, the company may be held liable for negligence or product liability.
Negligent Drivers – If a car, truck, or motorcycle driver fails to yield or drives recklessly, they may be held responsible for your injuries.
Cities & Municipalities – If unsafe road conditions contribute to an accident, the city or county may be liable for failing to maintain public streets.
Pedestrians & Cyclists – In cases where a pedestrian suddenly steps into a rider’s path or a cyclist causes a collision, liability may fall on them.
What to Do After an E-Scooter Accident
If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident, taking the right steps can protect your legal claim:
Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. A police report will serve as valuable evidence for your claim.
Document the Scene – Take photos of your injuries, the scooter, road conditions, and any other vehicles or hazards involved.
Get Witness Information – Eyewitness testimony can be crucial in proving how the accident occurred.
Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries from e-scooter accidents may not be immediately apparent. Seeing a doctor strengthens your case and ensures proper treatment.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – Before speaking with insurance companies, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Potential Compensation for E-Scooter Injuries
If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical Expenses – Emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care
Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed at work due to injuries
Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life
Property Damage – Repairs or replacement of personal belongings damaged in the accident
Punitive Damages – In cases involving extreme negligence, additional compensation may be awarded to punish the responsible party
How Meyers & Burnett Can Help
At Meyers & Burnett Personal Injury Attorneys, we understand the complexities of e-scooter accident claims and are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Our team will:
Conduct a thorough investigation to determine fault
Gather evidence and witness statements to support your claim
Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement
Take your case to trial if necessary to secure justice for you
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in an electric scooter accident in California, do not wait to seek legal guidance. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on the road to recovery. www.mjmeyerslaw.com
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