The popularity of the new scooter services like Lime and Bird is surely on the rise. Many people use these devices both recreationally and for convenience. But, the new service has created some problems when scooter riders and pedestrians are involved in a collision together and an injury is sustained.
In Denver, a city ordinance mandates that electric scooter be ridden in bike lanes or on roads where the speed limit is 30 mph or less. This mandate is not always followed, and sometimes, scooter riders use the devices on sidewalks where pedestrians are walking as well. This could hold the scooter rider liable for injuries if an accident occurs.
However, there are other factors that could prove other parties liable in an electric scooter accident.
Proving Negligence
The first part of pursuing damages is making sure there is some sort of official record that the injury occurred. Those injured by an electric scooter should notify law enforcement and seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Even if someone does not believe they sustained an injury, some types of injuries are not apparent until later on.
In some instances, the scooter company itself may be held liable to compensate an individual who was injured by an electric scooter. This would be the case, for example, if the scooter’s brakes malfunctioned and the rider was unable to stop before colliding with a pedestrian.
It will be the responsibility of the injured claimant and their personal injury attorney to prove the collision involved the electric scooter rider and that the accident caused some sort of injury. The ultimate issue comes down to proving negligence.
Potential Damages
The same typical damages for any other personal injury claim will apply for injuries suffered from an electric scooter incident. Compensation can be pursued for damages including medical bills, lost wages when the injury prohibits working, and general damages for long-term problems.
Proving a personal injury case involving an electric scooter can be challenging and difficult to navigate on your own. Our attorneys have over 40 years of experience fighting on behalf of injured victims across Colorado. Let us put our experience to work for you so that you can focus on healing and moving forward.
Contact Springer & Steinberg at (303) 861-2800 to schedule your free consultation.