Injuries From E-Scooter Accidents: Who Is Liable?

E-scooters are a modern and eco-friendly way to get around in Texas cities, from Houston to Austin and Dallas. Teenagers and adults use them for short-distance travel instead of taking a bus or taxi. While e-scooters are generally safe, like most modes of transportation, they are prone to accidents.

Also, since e-scooter riders have no protection other than a helmet, they are prone to severe injuries. If you or a loved one gets involved in an e-scooter accident, you might wonder who is liable and what compensation you will likely receive.

Our personal injury lawyers at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law can help you prove the liability of the at-fault party or parties and get you maximum compensation. Our initial consultations are free, so call us now at (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000 to begin your journey to financial recovery.

Why Choose Our Personal Injury Lawyers at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law?

Our personal injury attorneys have dedicated their careers to representing injured victims and helping them get compensation. We can help you determine whether you can file an e-scooter injury claim, identify the party responsible, gather evidence to prove their liability, and help you get fair compensation. We are board-certified trial lawyers and experienced negotiators with 98% positive online ratings.

We will dedicate time and resources to your claim and create a personalized strategy based on your case’s facts. So, contact us if you need an ethical and reliable legal team committed to putting in the work and achieving successful outcomes. We will help you get justice.

We will listen to you to understand your needs and protect your rights and interests throughout the claims process.

Common E-Scooter Accident Injuries

E-scooter accidents can result in one or more of the following injuries:

• Head Injuries: These are the most frequent, often due to falls or collisions. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of a head injury.
• Fractures: Broken bones, especially in the arms and legs, are common when riders fall off the scooter.
• Contusions and Abrasions: Bruises and scrapes often occur from sliding on the pavement.
• Spinal Injuries: More severe accidents can result in spinal injuries, which can have long-term consequences.
• Internal Injuries: Though less common, some accidents can cause injuries to internal organs. Some internal injuries might have delayed symptoms, so ensure you get examined after an accident to rule out this injury.

Note that the more severe your injuries, the higher the compensation amount.

Steps to Take After an E-Scooter Accident

After an e-scooter accident, take the following steps to get treatment for your injuries and ensure you have evidence to prove the e-scooter accident liability does not lie with you:

• Report the Accident: File a police report and notify the e-scooter company through its app. The police report and the one filed with the e-scooter company are crucial proof when seeking compensation.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries are minor, get treatment so they are documented. You’ll need the medical record to connect your injuries to the accident.
• Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene and your injuries. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
• Consult a Lawyer: Texas personal injury laws can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved. Our lawyers can explain them and tell you what to expect from the claims process.

Doing the above helps protect your rights and increase your chances of a fair settlement.

Don’t accept blame or use words like “I’m sorry” when speaking with the other party involved in the accident, as it can place liability on you. 

Who Is Liable for Injuries in an E-Scooter Injury Claim?

There are several possible liable parties to an e-scooter injury claim. They include the following:

The Driver of a Motor Vehicle

If a driver’s negligence led to the accident, they might be liable. Negligence may mean the driver drove under the influence, was distracted, or ran a red light. To establish the driver’s negligence, you must show they owed you a duty of care, breached it, and the breach caused the accident. You must have also suffered damages, like lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

The E-Scooter Company

Well-known Texas e-scooter companies such as Bird, Lime, and Spin can be liable for compensation for an electric scooter accident. An e-scooter company will be liable if the accident happened because the scooter was defective or poorly maintained. Also, if there are unclear instructions or warnings about the safe operation of the e-scooter, the company will be liable. Furthermore, if the electric scooter company was negligent in deploying it, they will be held accountable for an accident.

Pedestrians or Third Parties

Suppose a pedestrian or cyclist steps into the front of a scooter and causes an accident; in this situation, the pedestrian or cyclist will be held liable. Cases like this are complex, as pedestrians might argue they have the right of way. So, contact us if you find yourself in such a situation. We can help you establish the pedestrian’s liability.

If someone else contributes to the e-scooter accident, they may share liability with any of the above possible liable parties. Texas modified comparative negligence law will apply, meaning you can still receive compensation if you have less than 51% fault, but your compensation will be reduced in accordance with your percentage of fault. So if you’re 30% at fault, you will only get 70% of the money awarded as compensation.

Let Us Help You Hold Liable Parties Accountable

Injuries can change your life, making it essential to hold the person who hurt you accountable. Doing this while recovering can seem like a lot, which is why you need us. Our Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law team will handle your claim while you focus on your recovery. We do not relent until we get a favorable outcome, so you can count on us to give your claim the attention it needs to succeed.

We understand you might be unable to pay our fees immediately, so we offer our services on a contingency fee basis. This means you only pay when we win. Call us now at (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000 for a free and confidential case evaluation.