Electric scooters have recently been facing bans due to pedestrian congestion and increased accidents. These micro-mobility devices are often fun solutions to getting from place to place, but they also often lead to injuries.
If you were injured by someone on an electric scooter, a Los Angeles Bird scooter accident lawyerfrom Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys can explain your legal options.
Reasons for Electric Scooter Bans
Electric scooters are being banned in some cities for a variety of reasons. Some of the more common reasons for bans include:
- Increasing accidents and injuries.
- Sidewalk riding.
- Increased clutter when rented scooters are abandoned, often blocking ramps or sidewalks.
While some restrictions already exist, bans would seek to more heavily regulate or remove electric scooters completely. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence while they were on an electric scooter, a Los Angeles scooter accident lawyer from Omega Law Group can help hold them accountable.
What Laws Currently Regulate Electric Scooters?
In California, electric scooters are regulated similarly to bicycles but with a few key additional rules. These are:
Age and Licensing
California law requires motorized scooter operators to hold a valid driver’s license or instruction permit, and riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
However, it’s important to note that currently, electric scooters do not need to be licensed or registered. Additionally, e-scooter operators do not need to have insurance.
Sidewalk Use
Electric scooters are not allowed on sidewalks. Brief use to enter or leave a driveway is allowed, though.
Bike Lanes
Electric scooters must be used in designated bike lanes. In areas where there is no bike lane and speed limits are 25 MPH or less, electric scooters may be ridden in roadways.
Speeds
Per CVC § 22411, electric scooters must be ridden at 15 MPH or less. This is true even if the scooter has higher maximum speeds.
Passengers
Extra passengers are not allowed on electric scooters. Each scooter has a maximum capacity of a single individual.
Alcohol or Drug Use
Similar to driving a vehicle, alcohol or drug use while operating an electric scooter is strictly prohibited. Riding an electric scooter while intoxicated can result in a DUI.
If an electric scooter rider acted negligently and it resulted in your injury, a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer from Omega Law Group can help you pursue fair compensation.
What Happens If You Are Injured in an Electric Scooter Accident?
Electric scooter bans are becoming more widespread as accidents increase. While electric scooters are smaller and slower than cars, they can still cause a lot of damage, especially when an electric scooter strikes a pedestrian.
After such an accident, you may have injuries like:
- Broken bones.
- Soft tissue damage.
- Lacerations or road rash.
- Spinal cord injuries.
- Traumatic brain injuries.
- Internal organ damage.
These injuries can have long-lasting impacts on your life. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, such as an e-scooter rider who was speeding or riding on the sidewalk, you can seek fair compensation for your losses.
What Compensation Can You Recover After an Electric Scooter Accident?
A lawyer from Omega Law Group will seek compensation for your injuries and other losses, such as:
Medical Expenses
These include the immediate medical bills you have from your injuries, as well as the long-term medical expenses you are expected to face. They can include:
- ER visits.
- Diagnostic imaging.
- Surgery.
- Hospital stays.
- Doctor appointments.
- Medications.
- Physical therapy appointments.
Professional Losses
These can include lost wages, lost benefits, and diminished earning capacity.
Other Economic Losses
These can include:
- Repairing or replacing personal property damaged in the accident.
- Home or vehicle modifications needed because of your injuries.
- Housekeeping or childcare costs while recovering from your injuries.
- Mobility aids and other assistive devices.
Non-Economic Losses
You may also be able to seek compensation for the physical and emotional damage caused by the accident. These recoverable losses can include:
- Emotional distress.
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Reduced quality of life.
- Permanent disability.
- Scarring.
Your attorney will seek compensation for the full scope of your losses.
Is There a Deadline for Recovering Compensation After an Electric Scooter Accident?
Yes, under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, you generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit after an electric scooter accident. Failing to do so within the statute of limitations can result in you being barred from recovering compensation.
In addition to the statute of limitations, moving quickly on your case can also aid in the preservation of evidence. Omega Law Group will get started on your case as soon as possible.
Have you been involved
in an accident?
(310) 526-8383 Contact a Los Angeles Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer Today
Why are electric scooters getting banned? In addition to sidewalk congestion, the increase in accidents and injuries is getting more legal attention for electric scooters. When electric scooter operators fail to act responsibly, serious injuries can happen.
If you were injured in an electric scooter accident, contact the legal team at Omega Law Group. Our lawyers work on contingency, so there are no upfront costs when you hire us. Instead, our fees are taken as a percentage of the compensation we recover for you.
If we are unable to recover compensation, you’ll owe us nothing. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.
