Shared mobility options like electric scooters and bikes (e-scooters and e-bikes) have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, with this growing popularity comes a rise in injuries sustained by riders. The legal landscape surrounding these injuries is still evolving, making it crucial to understand your rights if you’re involved in an accident. Shaumyan and Derbarseghian, LLP, is here to help you navigate the complexities of shared mobility injuries.
Who’s Liable in a Shared Mobility Accident?
Determining liability in a shared mobility accident can be complex, depending on the specific circumstances:
- Rider Fault: If the accident is solely your fault (e.g., reckless riding, violating traffic laws), you might be responsible for your own injuries and any damage caused to others.
- Third-Party Fault: If a car or another vehicle causes the accident, the driver of that vehicle could be liable for your injuries.
- Shared Mobility Company Fault: In some cases, the shared mobility company might be held liable if the accident resulted from a malfunctioning vehicle or inadequate safety warnings.
Understanding Your Shared Mobility Agreement
The user agreements you sign when renting e-scooters or e-bikes often contain clauses limiting the company’s liability. It’s important to understand these clauses before renting, so you know what protections (or limitations) they offer.
Additional Considerations
- Helmet Laws: Some jurisdictions have helmet laws for e-scooter and e-bike riders. Not wearing a helmet where required could impact your ability to recover damages in an accident.
- Insurance Coverage: While some shared mobility companies offer limited insurance coverage for riders, it’s often not comprehensive. Consider if your personal insurance policy extends to e-scooter or e-bike use.
Protecting Yourself as a Shared Mobility User
Here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of injury and protect your legal rights:
- Always wear a helmet (where required by law and even if not).
- Obey traffic laws and ride responsibly.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions while riding.
- Familiarize yourself with the shared mobility company’s user agreement.
- Consider additional insurance coverage if your personal policy doesn’t cover e-scooter or e-bike use.
Shaumyan and Derbarseghian, LLP: Your Advocate After a Shared Mobility Accident
Shared mobility injuries can be serious. If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, Shaumyan and Derbarseghian, LLP, can help. We will investigate the cause of the accident, identify potentially liable parties, and fight to recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Contact us today for a free consultation and discuss your legal options.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an attorney for specific legal guidance.
Helpful Links
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – E-scooters
Consumer Reports – E-bike Safety
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) – Micro-Mobility Safety
Find Your State’s Helmet Laws: Use the Governors Highway Safety Association website to find specific helmet laws in your state. (There’s a searchable database by state)
