Electric Scooter Accidents And Your Legal Options

A familiar sight on the streets of Miami, electrical scooters are popular due to their low cost, ease of use, and environmental benefits. These compact vehicles (especially those offered by rideshare services like Lime and Bird) have surged in popularity, but with the rise in scooter usage comes a rise in injuries.

Whether operated for fun or for a quick commute, e-scooters pose unique safety risks. If you’re involved in an electric scooter accident in Miami, it’s essential to understand the rules, the risks, and your legal options. Speak to a Miami personal injury lawyer to learn more.

Scooter Laws in Miami

In Florida, electric scooters are classified as motorized vehicles, and riders are expected to follow many of the same laws as bicyclists. Key regulations include:

• No license required. You don’t need a driver’s license to operate an electric scooter.
• Age restrictions. Riders must be at least 16 years old.
• Sidewalk restrictions. In Miami, riding scooters on sidewalks is prohibited in many areas, including Downtown and Brickell, to protect pedestrians.
• Helmet use. Helmets are recommended for all riders and required for those under 16.
• Road rules. Scooters should be used in bike lanes where available, or as far to the right on the roadway as is practical.

While these rules are meant to reduce risk, accidents still happen.

Miami’s heavy traffic, distracted drivers, and congested tourist zones make riding electric scooters more dangerous than many people expect. Drivers may fail to see scooters when turning or merging, leading to crashes. It is also possible that scooters weaving through crowds or operating on sidewalks can cause injuries to unsuspecting pedestrians. Additionally, rental scooters that aren’t properly maintained can experience sudden brake failures or handlebar malfunctions. Hazardous road conditions can increase the likelihood of accidents, too.

A report from a local hospital noted a dramatic increase in scooter-related ER visits since the arrival of rideshare scooter programs. Most injuries involve fractures, facial trauma, and head injuries. It’s important to note that many of these injuries could have been prevented with helmet use or safer riding environments.

Complex liability is possible in scooter accidents, sometimes involving the driver, the scooter company, or even the city. If you’re injured in a scooter accident in the state of FL, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, wage loss, property damage and more.

Protect Yourself and Your Rights

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, electric scooters offer convenience, but they come with real risks. If you’ve been hurt in a scooter collision, don’t try to navigate the legal aftermath alone. Connect with a Miami personal injury lawyer to learn about how to access the compensation you deserve. An experienced injury attorney can help determine liability, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies or file a lawsuit if needed.

Is the harm you are healing from a direct result of a scooter malfunction? Share the specifics of your electric scooter injury with the legal team at Spencer Morgan Law so a full and fair settlement can be accessed. Call 305-423-3800 today.