[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Dockless electric scooters such as Bird, Lime, and Razor have taken over city streets in California, much to many city's dismay. So much so that Beverly Hills and West Hollywood outright banned the devices. Several other cities have enacted restrictions until e-scooter regulations can be put into place. Much of the conversation about electric scooters has been about the clutter left after riders complete their journey. Not enough of the conversation has been about safety.
The risk of personal injury to riders and pedestrians is significant. Hospitals have been reporting scooter-related injuries almost immediately after the devices hit the streets. These injuries have ranged from scrapes and bruises to concussions and other serious head injuries. While riders are required by law to wear helmets, few do. And should a rider suffer injury, there may be minimal recourse in pursuing damages. Users of e-scooters are required to agree to terms severely restricting their ability to hold the e-scooter companies liable. Even if the scooter itself malfunctions, it may be difficult to obtain legal damages.
Injured pedestrians would have legal recourse. For example, if you are walking down the sidewalk and are struck by an electric scooter, the person on the scooter would be liable for your injuries. However, identifying the person who ran into you could be difficult, as scooters don't have easily identifiable markers or license plates. If you are injured by a dockless scooter, attempt to obtain as much contact information as possible. Scooter riders who are following all the rules of the road and are struck by a car would also have legal recourse, much the same as if the scooter operator was a bicyclist or pedestrian.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury related to a Bird, Razor, or Lime electric scooter, call the Law Offices of Scott Warmuth today at 888-517-9888. We can tell you if you have a potential personal injury legal case.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
