Electric Scooter Accident Attorney
As electric scooters continue to rise in popularity, they have become a common sight in cities like New Port Richey. Offering an eco-friendly and convenient mode of transportation, they have swiftly gained traction among the public. However, along with the surge in their use, there has been a corresponding increase in accidents. Many of these incidents result in serious injuries, leaving victims to grapple with both physical and emotional trauma. Navigating the aftermath of such an accident can be a daunting task, especially when trying to hold responsible parties accountable. Having a knowledgeable electric scooter accident lawyer on your side can be an invaluable asset during these trying times.
Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers is dedicated to helping accident victims in New Port Richey and surrounding areas seek justice for their injuries. Our experienced team of electric scooter accident attorneys understands the complex laws and regulations surrounding these types of accidents. We are committed to fighting for your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Are the E-Scooter Laws in Florida?
Now that motor scooters are a popular form of transportation, Florida has specific motor scooter laws in place.
- You need to be at least 16 years of age to operate an electric or motor scooter in the state of Florida.
- You must have a valid driver’s license or motorcycle license to rent and/or operate a scooter.
- You do not need to carry scooter insurance in Florida.
- You must share the road with other vehicles and obey state traffic laws.
- You need to obey all road signs, including traffic lights and stop signs.
- You cannot carry a passenger if you’re operating a motorized scooter.
- You are not legally obligated to wear a helmet if you’re over the age of 16 and your speed never exceeds 30 mph.
- You cannot operate a scooter on sidewalks, bicycle paths, state highways, or interstates.
- You can never ride abreast with passenger vehicles or ride between lanes.
- You must stay to the right-hand side of the road unless you’re avoiding a road hazard or making a left turn.
- You need to use arm motions to signal stops and turns unless your vehicle is equipped with signals and brake lights.
- It’s against the law to operate an e-scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Common Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents
There are various factors that can contribute to an electric scooter accident. Some of the most common causes include:
Defective equipment: Electric scooters can suffer from mechanical failures due to a lack of maintenance or defects in their design. This can lead to accidents, causing serious injuries.
Distracted riding: Operating an electric scooter requires full attention and concentration. When riders are distracted by their phones, headphones, or other distractions, they are more likely to lose control and cause an accident.
Road hazards: Uneven pavements, potholes, debris, and other road hazards can be especially dangerous for electric scooters due to their small size and lack of protective features.
Reckless riding: Many accidents occur due to reckless behavior such as speeding, running red lights or stop signs, or weaving through traffic.
Inexperienced riders: Electric scooters can be relatively easy to operate but still require some level of skill and experience. Inexperienced riders may not know how to handle the scooter properly, leading to accidents.
An electric scooter car accident lawyer can help determine the cause of your accident and hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
Types of Electric Scooter Accident Injuries
E-scooter use carries significant risks, and rider injuries can be severe. According to JAMA Surgery, less than 5% of scooter riders wear helmets, leading to double the rate of head injuries compared to bicyclists. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified common serious injuries sustained during e-scooter accidents, including:
- Traumatic brain injury, including concussions
- Lacerations and abrasions
- Nerve, tendon, and ligament injuries
- Bone fractures on both upper and lower limbs
- Severe bleeding
- Sustained organ damage
Unfortunately, some of these injuries can have long-term or even permanent effects on the victim’s life. They may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. This can result in high medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial burdens. Our electric scooter accident attorneys are here to help you pursue compensation for these damages.
What to Do After a New Port Richey Motor Scooter Accident?
Ensure Your Safety:
Scooter riders should, if possible, immediately move to a safe location away from moving traffic.
Call the Authorities:
Dial 911 and report the accident. Ensure a police report is filed, as it serves as a crucial piece of evidence in your case.
Seek Medical Help:
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get a professional medical evaluation. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately.
Document the Scene:
If you can, take photos or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your scooter. This will be helpful when filing your claim.
Exchange Information:
Collect and exchange information with the other party involved in the accident, including names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details.
Witnesses:
If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information. Their account of the incident could support your claim.
Consult a Lawyer:
Before signing any documents or making statements to insurance representatives, consult with an experienced scooter accident attorney. An attorney can help protect your rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation.
Be Cautious When Speaking to Your Insurance Company
It’s essential for electric scooter accident victims to be careful when speaking to the insurance company after an e-scooter accident. While you may have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage under your own insurance policy, insurance companies are still businesses and will likely try to minimize their liability. Be cautious of any attempts by the insurance company to settle quickly or offer a low settlement amount. Always consult with a lawyer before accepting any offers or making statements to insurance representatives.
Seeking Compensation
If you have been injured in an electric scooter accident due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This can include economic damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Our experienced electric scooter accident attorneys can help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve.
Comparative Negligence Law
In Florida, the comparative negligence law applies to personal injury cases, including electric scooter accidents. This means that if you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced accordingly. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault and the total damages amounted to $10,000, your compensation would be reduced by 20%, resulting in a total of $8,000. If you are found to be over 50% responsible, you are not eligible for compensation at all. This is why it is crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side who can help determine fault and negotiate on your behalf.
What Compensation Is Available To Injured Riders?
Injured riders may be entitled to receive various types of compensation following an electric scooter accident. These can include:
Medical Expenses: Costs associated with medical care, including hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical needs.
Lost Wages: This covers earnings lost while recovering from the accident and potential future earnings if the injuries result in permanent disability.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life stemming from the accident.
Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for the damaged scooter or any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Loss of Consortium: If the injuries significantly impact the victim’s relationship with their spouse, compensation may be awarded.
Punitive Damages: In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded as a form of punishment and deterrent.
To determine what your personal injury case is worth, consult with an experienced electric scooter accident attorney. They can evaluate the specifics of your case and help you seek the maximum compensation available.
Stay Safe while Riding an Electric Scooter
To avoid accidents, follow these safety tips while riding an electric scooter:
Always wear a helmet
Obey traffic laws and signs
Avoid distractions such as using your phone
Use hand signals when turning or stopping
Be aware of road hazards
Avoid reckless behavior such as speeding or weaving through traffic.
Most electric scooter accidents can be prevented by following these safety measures. Remember to always prioritize your safety and that of others while enjoying the convenience of electric scooters.
Contact Our New Port Richey Electric Scooter Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an electric scooter accident, our attorneys at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers are here to help. We have a proven track record of success in handling personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents and electric scooter accidents. Our team will work tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.
