Electric scooters, also known as e-scooters, have become increasingly popular over the past few years, particularly in urban areas like New York City. They are convenient and environmentally friendly forms of transportation. Riders simply download an app, scan the scooter, enter a payment method, and jump on. However, these scooters can also be involved in a variety of accidents. If you or someone you know were involved in an electric scooter accident, contact a Rockland County auto accident lawyer for assistance.
What Are Common Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents?
Unfortunately, electric scooter accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Operating any motor vehicle comes with risks, and some scooters can really pick up speed. Common causes of e-scooter accidents can include:
- Loss of control
- Potholes
- Uneven sidewalks or roadways
- Device malfunction
- Collision with other scooters
- Collision with pedestrians
- Collision with bikes
- Collision with cars
- Intoxicated operation
The plethora of above-mentioned accidents can cause serious injury to any party involved. If you get into an accident involving an electric scooter, you could sustain one or more of the following injuries.
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Concussion
- Brain injury
- Neck injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Road burn
- Cuts and lacerations
- Bruising
- Nerve damage
- Facial trauma
Who is Responsible?
The liable party for an electric scooter accident will depend on the specific circumstances of the situation. Liability may fall on the scooter company, a car driver, another e-scooter driver, or a pedestrian.
The company itself can be liable in some instances. Though many scooters warn riders that they should wear helmets, there are none provided. Additionally, there is no training required to operate the scooter. Not knowing what to expect when you ride can cause serious injuries for first-time users. Accidents can also be caused by malfunctioning of the device. Any of these situations can result in the electric scooter company facing liability.
Other e-scooter rides, cars, or even pedestrians can be responsible for accidents if they disobey the rules of the road. Especially in high-traffic areas such as NYC, drivers can become irate and frustrated, maneuvering erratically. If a car swerves into a bike lane or hits them in any capacity they can be found at fault for the accident.
Should I Hire an Attorney?
If you are involved in an electric scooter accident one of the first things you should do, after seeking medical attention, is to hire a trusted attorney. Depending on the specifics of the accident there can be many people who are potentially responsible for the accident. A skilled lawyer will be able to assess the details of the situation and collect relevant evidence to prove fault. You may be entitled to compensation, so working with your attorney can ensure that you are fully reimbursed for any medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, loss of wages, and more.
Your lawyer will be well-versed in various accident cases and personal injury claims, bringing invaluable experience to your case. Speak with a knowledgeable attorney today to begin discussing the details of your accident.
