Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents
There are several factors that can contribute to e-scooter accidents in Florida, including:
- Lack of Infrastructure – Because e-scooters are so new many cities lack the proper guidelines for where riders should ride. Cities that don’t have dedicated bike/scooter lanes force riders to share the road with cars or use sidewalks, leading to collisions and accidents.
- Inexperience – E-scooter rentals have become very popular but this means that many users are first-time riders who may not be familiar with the operation of e-scooters and struggle to use them safely. This increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Reckless Riding – As with any type of vehicle, e-scooter uses must drive responsibly. Speeding, weaving through traffic, and ignoring traffic signals are all common behaviors among e-scooter riders that can result in accidents.
- Poor Maintenance – It is up to e-scooter rental companies to make sure that they are regularly checking all of their scooters to make sure they are functioning properly. Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, and other maintenance issues can lead to accidents. When this is the case the e-scooter company could be liable for injuries sustained on one of their scooters.
- Distracted Driving – E-scooters are even harder to see than bicyclists on the road. If an e-scooter driver is sharing the road with cars they need to use an abundance of caution. Distracted driving can lead to a driver not seeing an e-scooter rider and turning in front of them, sideswiping them, or hitting them directly.
Types of Injuries in E-Scooter Accidents
Because there is little protection on an e-scooter, accidents can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to very severe, and even fatal in some cases. Common injuries a person could sustain if they are hit or have a collision while on an e-scooter include:
- Fractures and sprains
- Head injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Spinal injuries
- Crush injuries
- Internal bleeding
What Happens If You Are Involved in An E-Scooter Accident?
If you have been involved in an e-scooter accident in Florida, it’s important to understand your legal rights and responsibilities. Because most e-scooter users are actually renting the devices from a company, these cases can be complex. There are a number of things that must be considered, and as such it is typically best to speak with a personal injury attorney who has experience with e-scooter cases for how best to proceed. Some of the items that will be looked at in an e-scooter case include:
1. Liability – One of the main factors in an e-scooter case will be to determine who is liable. It may be the rider, a motorist, the e-scooter company, or even the city if poor infrastructure contributed to the accident.
2. Insurance – As of right now in 2024, Florida law does not require e-scooter riders to carry insurance. However, some e-scooter companies offer insurance coverage, and the rider’s health or auto insurance may also cover injuries.
3. Reporting the Accident – If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident in Florida, it’s critical that you report the accident to local authorities and seek medical attention immediately. Documentation will be essential for any legal claims.
4. Legal Representation – As mentioned previously, e-scooter injury claims can be quite complex. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer experienced in e-scooter accidents can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for injuries and damages.
Speak With An E-Scooter Injury Lawyer Near You in Florida
While e-scooters offer a convenient transportation option, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to stay safe. If you have been injured in an accident involving an e-scooter, reach out to the personal injury lawyers at the Cloud Law Firm. Contact our office online or call 855-408-5100 to speak with one of our experienced attorneys today to set up a free case consultation.
Have You Sustained E-Scooter Injuries in an Accident in Florida?
