Nowadays, the need to arrive at our destination efficiently has led to new transportation options. The e-scooters have won territory, and many people have started using them in large and crowded cities such as The Bronx.
Driving is easy and cheap, so people can use it to get to work or anywhere in the city. It's good for the environment, too. In 2020, laws were enacted that discussed e-scooters and e-bikes.
As the demand for e-scooters starts rising, so do electric scooter accidents. When analyzing these light vehicles, we see that they can cause devastating harm when it comes to accidents. Due to the lack of protection, the result may be fatal if the user crashes into a larger car at a considerably high speed.
If you were hurt while using this transportation option, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your damages. You will need an e-scooter accident lawyer.
When insurance companies encounter an accident involving an e-scooter, they tend to lag the process or blame you as the leading cause of the accident. They aim to get you to accept the lowball compensation they want to offer.
Common Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents
For this type of vehicle, there are four categories that we can discuss:
Obstacles:
An e-scooter is a "device with handlebars, a floorboard or a seat, and an electric motor that the electric motor and human power can power."
They are small vehicles with small wheels, making them sensitive to road conditions such as potholes or uneven surfaces. Any obstacles that may get stuck on the reels can cause the rider to fall from it.
Pedestrians:
Electric scooter accidents in The Bronx can involve pedestrians. By law, these light vehicles cannot be used on sidewalks. They must use bicycle lanes and share the street with larger vehicles such as cars and trucks.
Many electric scooter accidents involving pedestrians occur at intersections when people tend to cross streets, and they may not see the e-scooter rider as a menace.
If a scooter rider hits a pedestrian, that could cause injuries ranging from minimum to severe. Due to this, vehicles can easily reach up to 30 miles per hour or even more depending on their electric motor.
Other Motor Vehicles:
Of course, there are accidents involving cars, trucks, etc. Many drivers are not used to seeing electric scooters on their way. Light vehicles tend to ride up to 30 miles per hour, the speed limit approved by the law.
Some drivers do not respect other street users and tend to pass them quickly by their side. The lack of courtesy and patience may lead to severe accidents.
We are talking about a crash between a 10 to 20-ton weight against a vehicle less than 50 kg. The consequences of an accident are catastrophic for the electric scooter rider.
Defective Scooters:
Faulty brakes, overheating batteries, and loose handlebars are just some defects that can cause an electric scooter accident in The Bronx. If a defect in the vehicle design contributed to the accident, the manufacturer may be held responsible.
Understanding Electric Scooter Laws in The Bronx
It is crucial to be aware of the local regulations and laws surrounding electric scooter use to ensure rider safety and legal compliance with this popular mode of transportation. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Speed Limits: Electric scooters in The Bronx are subject to specific speed limits. The maximum speed limit for electric scooters is 15 miles per hour, and these vehicles can be operated on highways with a posted speed limit of 30 MPH or less. Adhere to this speed limit to avoid accidents and potential legal consequences. Exceeding the speed limit puts you at risk and endangers pedestrians and other road users.
- Helmet Laws: Like many other places, the Bronx prioritizes safety for scooter riders. Wearing a helmet is mandatory for users below 17 years old. Although recommended, it is not compulsory for riders 18 years old or above. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in case of accidents and should always be worn while operating an electric scooter.
- Restricted Areas: Electric scooters offer convenience but cannot operate everywhere in The Bronx. Public sidewalks are typically off-limits for electric scooter use. Instead, riders are encouraged to use designated bike lanes or ride on the road with traffic flow. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific areas where electric scooters can operate legally to avoid legal issues.
- Prohibited Activities: Engaging in reckless behavior, such as racing, stunt riding, or carrying more passengers than the scooter is designed for, is strictly prohibited. Operating an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also against the law. These activities not only endanger the rider but also pose a threat to others on the road.
- Age Restrictions: In The Bronx, the legal age to operate an electric scooter is typically 16 years old or older. Younger individuals should not use electric scooters on public roads, even with a valid driver's license.
The Importance of Hiring an Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer
After being involved in an electric scooter accident in The Bronx, seeking legal representation can be a critical decision that ensures your rights and interests are protected. Here are some of the essential benefits of hiring an experienced electric scooter accident lawyer:
Protecting Your Rights:
Following an electric scooter accident, you may face challenges navigating the legal process and dealing with insurance companies. A skilled electric scooter accident lawyer in The Bronx will be well-versed in New York personal injury laws and can advocate for your rights throughout the entire legal process.
They will work diligently to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and any other damages you may have suffered.
Gathering Essential Evidence:
Establishing liability and proving negligence are vital aspects of a personal injury case. An electric scooter accident lawyer will know how to investigate and gather crucial evidence to support your claim thoroughly.
This may include collecting witness statements, obtaining surveillance footage, analyzing accident reports, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts, which are crucial in building a solid case on your behalf.
Dealing with Insurance Companies:
Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and challenging. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts to protect their company's interests.
By having a skilled electric scooter accident lawyer, you can avoid the pitfalls of dealing with insurance companies on your own. Your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance company and negotiate a fair settlement that accurately reflects the full extent of your damages.
Calculating Fair Compensation:
Determining the appropriate compensation in an electric scooter accident case can be tricky, as it involves assessing various factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential future damages.
An experienced lawyer will have the knowledge and expertise to accurately evaluate the value of your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Litigation Experience:
Insurance companies may sometimes be unwilling to offer a fair settlement. In such situations, having a lawyer with solid litigation experience is crucial.
Your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court if necessary and will skillfully represent your interests in front of a judge and jury.
Steps to Take After an Electric Scooter Accident
Experiencing an electric scooter accident can be distressing. We know that. We have seen many cases of our previous clients in which the situation would have been more accessible for them to recover compensation if they had known the following steps after an accident.
Take close attention to it:
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety should be the top priority. If you or anyone involved in the accident is injured, call for medical assistance immediately.
Even if you feel fine initially, getting a medical evaluation is essential, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Adrenaline can mask pain, and internal injuries or concussions might manifest later.
Seeking medical attention ensures that all injuries are properly documented and treated promptly.
Step 2: Document the Scene
If you are physically able, try to document the accident scene. Take photos or videos of the electric scooter, any other vehicles involved, the surrounding area, road conditions, and any visible injuries. These visual records can be valuable evidence for your case.
Additionally, the contact information of witnesses who saw the accident must be gathered. Witness statements can play a crucial role in establishing liability.
Step 3: Report the Incident
Contact the local law enforcement authorities to report the electric scooter accident. An official police report will be filed, which can be essential when dealing with insurance companies and pursuing a personal injury claim.
Provide the police with an accurate account of the accident, but avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements about the cause of the accident.
Step 4: Exchange Information
Exchange contact and insurance information with other parties involved in the accident, such as drivers or pedestrians. Obtain all parties' names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details.
Be sure to be cooperative and polite during these interactions, but refrain from discussing the details of the accident beyond basic information.
Step 5: Preserve Evidence
Preserve any physical evidence of the accident, such as damaged personal belongings, clothing, or the electric scooter. Do not repair or dispose of these items, as they may be crucial evidence in determining liability and damages.
Step 6: Consult with an Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer
Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer in The Bronx as soon as possible. An attorney will guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work to secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
They will handle communication with insurance companies, gather evidence, and negotiate on your behalf to reach a favorable settlement. Remember that this professional must have experience dealing with electric scooter accidents in The Bronx.
If you get too nervous when these situations happen, you can always count on us to assist you at the accident scene. The Ward Law Group is ready to send our lawyers where you require them, and they will take the steps for you.
Determining Liability in Electric Scooter Accidents
Determining who is responsible for electric scooter accidents and injuries can be complicated.
We must understand that New York is a no-fault state, meaning that their insurance company will compensate any individual injured in an automobile accident.
However, this does not apply to e-scooter riders since this is a nonregistered vehicle, and riders do not need a license to operate them, just as an e-bicycle. Therefore, the injured victim must present a claim against the party that caused their injury.
Compensation for Electric Scooter Accident Victims
A victim can be compensated for economic and non-economic damages depending on the injuries sustained. It's important to know the cost of injuries and if any long-term effects need attention.
An electric scooter accident attorney in The Bronx will help you determine how compensation would be the fairest for you and will fight with the insurance company to get it.
Our lawyers can take the case to trial if they deny coverage to you as a victim.
Contact Your Electric Scooter Accident Attorney in The Bronx
The Ward Law Group is proud to serve the Hispanic community in New York State. The Bronx needs experts to help injured citizens in traffic accidents and protect their rights.
With over 12 years of experience, The Ward Law Group has been successful in negotiating settlements for our clients. We support injured victims and will work hard to get fair compensation for you and your family.
Contact us now at 855-DOLOR-55 for a free consultation of your case.