Electric Scooter Liability: What You Need to Know

No doubt that electric scooters are convenient, but they pose serious risks for drivers making scooter liability a serious concern.
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Electric scooters have become increasingly popular. However, there has also been an increase in risk, lawsuits, and liability. Many states are still figuring out laws around these convenient modes of transportation. Keep reading to understand electric scooter liability and risks.

Electric Scooter Liability and Risks

When scooters first arrived on the scene in 2017, many cities were caught off guard and didn’t have laws for them. There have already been 30 scooter-related deaths. Therefore, states have tried to come up with scooter-specific laws. 

Currently, no state has passed a law making it mandatory for scooter riders to wear helmets while riding. Additionally, only three states have banned scooters from being ridden on sidewalks. This lack of regulation has contributed to increased scooter injuries and accidents.

There are many dangers associated with scooters:

  • Scooter companies do not always provide safety equipment.
  • Drivers may find it challenging to see scooters.
  • Scooter companies may deny liability. 

Before renting or buying an electric scooter, do your research. Be sure to read scooter reviews to see what other users have said about the safety of different models. Further, take into consideration scooter prices. A more expensive model is likely to have better safety features than a cheaper one.

Most rental agreements specify that you assume all scooter liability if you get in an accident. Additionally, your home or auto insurance may not cover you in an accident. Home policies don’t usually cover electric vehicles. Further, auto policies probably don’t cover electric scooters. 

You can buy scooter insurance to get covered. Scooter insurance is relatively inexpensive and can provide peace of mind in an accident. In fact, some cities in Texas require scooter insurance.

Evidence to Gather

If you’ve been in an accident, there are a few critical pieces of evidence you’ll need to gather. This will help you have the best chance of winning your case. First, the most crucial part of the evidence is the scooter. Take pictures of the scooter from different angles. Be sure to get shots of any damage, no matter how minor it may seem. It’s also important to take pictures of the accident scene, including any skid marks or debris.

Additional evidence you should use to establish your claim includes:

  • Photos or videos of the accident site
  • Medical documents, including reports, bills, or receipts
  • Statements from eyewitness
  • Expert witness testimony
  • Revisiting the scene of the accident

Electric Scooter Liability Waivers

Most scooter companies make riders sign a liability waiver before they can ride. These waivers usually state that the rider agrees to provide and wear their safety equipment. If the rider gets in an accident without protective gear, they are at fault. The scooter company is not liable because the rider didn’t follow the agreement. 

However, there are situations where the scooter company is held liable. If there was a malfunction in the scooter that caused the accident, you might have a case.

Whether renting or buying an electric scooter, read the fine print of the waiver and understand the agreement.

Contact a personal injury lawyer in Texas if you were in a scooter accident. They’ll be able to help you determine if you have a case against the scooter company. Further, they will ensure you understand scooter liability and who is responsible.

Overall Liability

When submitting an accident claim, it will usually include liability and negligence.

Unless the rider owns the scooter, the scooter company might be liable for an accident. This is because they are responsible for maintaining their equipment. 

Be sure to understand scooter liability to guarantee you have the best chance of winning your scooter accident case. Contact a personal injury lawyer in Texas if you were in a scooter accident.

State legislation is also working on solidifying laws of illegal use. These laws include activities such as riding after doing drugs or drinking alcohol. However, these lawsuit claims are a little complicated. Be sure to learn about the rules implemented in your state.

Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer in Texas?

Navigating scooter accidents can be tricky. Not all states have specific laws relating to electric scooters. Therefore, a personal injury lawyer in Texas will be able to see if you have a solid claim. Additionally, they can assist you with a lawsuit if necessary.

When you are ready to hire a personal injury lawyer in Texas, contact Dooley Noted Law. We will work tirelessly on your case and get you the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been in a scooter accident, contact us today for a free consultation.

The contents of this post, and the posting and viewing of the information on this post, should not be construed as, and should not be relied upon for, legal advice in any particular circumstance or fact situation. An attorney should be contacted for advice on specific legal issues.

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