Electric scooters (e-scooters) are no longer new on Atlanta streets. Bird scooters have been in the state capital since 2018, and Lime scooters re-entered the city in mid-2021 after leaving the market in early 2020. Unfortunately, while the e-vehicles are relatively safe, riders still find themselves in an e-scooter accident.
This accident could be due to the negligence of the scooter operators, defective parts, or the carelessness of other road users. In our time representing victims of e-scooter crashes, we realized that most people don’t know what to do after a collision involving an electric vehicle. This article aims to correct that as we discuss things to know about an e-scooter accident in Atlanta.
If you find yourself a victim of an accident involving a scooter, contact our Atlanta bird scooter injury lawyer for help. We offer excellent legal assistance to injury victims and help them get the maximum compensation.
Safety Guidelines Electronic Scooter Riders Should Know
E-scooter companies like Bird and Lime provide their riders with convenient and cost-effective transportation. However, there are clear guidelines that riders must follow. Here are some of them:
- You must be at least 18-years-old to ride the scooters
- You must possess a valid driver’s license
- You must always wear a helmet
- You must keep at least one hand on the scooter handle always
- You must ride on the street along with traffic
- You must follow all traffic rules and signals like other vehicles on the roadway
- You must not exceed the scooter’s weight limit
- You must not allow another person to join you on the scooter (no double riders)
What Everyone Needs to Know About an E-Scooter Accident
Below, we cover some of the essential information you need to know about accidents involving electric scooters.
Whose Insurance Covers E-Scooter Accidents?
Generally, Bird and Lime e-scooter companies are self-insured against any liability. However, when an accident happens, the companies may not be responsible, depending on the facts and circumstances of the collision. For instance, if a passenger vehicle struck you, the driver’s auto insurance liability policy would cover the injuries.
If you lost control of the scooter because of a damaged road, the city government might be the one to compensate you. Similarly, if you were injured due to a sidewalk hazard, the party liable for the maintenance like the homeowner or property owner would be responsible. So, it’s crucial to look at the circumstances of the accident and determine the appropriate fault party. Our Atlanta injury lawyers can help determine who to file the compensation claim against.
Can You File a Lawsuit After an E-Scooter Accident?
Generally, most auto accident victims prefer to file an insurance claim after an accident. However, they are instances when a lawsuit is a preferable option. But can you file a lawsuit following an e-scooter accident? The simple answer is yes.
You have the right to file a lawsuit after an electric scooter accident. Most times, victims file a lawsuit in one of the following situations:
- When they fail to settle with the insurance company
- When there’s evidence of gross negligence, and they want punitive damages
- When the insurance company deny their claim
- To ensure the Statute of Limitations does not elapse
- When there are catastrophic injuries
Filing a lawsuit is easier when you work with a legal team. Our attorneys at The Weinstein Firm have the relevant trial experience to help you win a case and get a financial settlement.
If Defective Parts Caused the Accident, What Should You Do?
It’s not uncommon for defective parts to cause an e-scooter accident. When it does, you can get compensation from the manufacturer of the electronic vehicle. However, to ensure you do not jeopardize your case, do the following:
- Report the accident
- Preserve the defective product by keeping it in a safe place. You can also take pictures that highlight defects.
- Seek medical treatment if you sustained injuries
- Get legal assistance
What Compensation Can You Recieve After an E-Scooter Accident?
A victim in an electronic scooter accident might be able to get the following compensation:
- Medical costs
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of consortium
- Punitive damages
Get Help From Premium Atlanta E-Scooter Accident Lawyers!
Beginning an injury claim process is always easier when you work with a team of lawyers. At The Weinstein Firm, we understand how painful accident injuries can be and will dedicate our resources to getting you the compensation you deserve. In addition, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay legal fees until we win. Contact us today for a free case review.
