Electric scooters, or E-scooters, are a popular means of transportation. Unfortunately, accidents frequently happen. Because of the lack of safety on these scooters, the resulting injuries are often severe.
If you have been injured in a crash involving an electric scooter, you should contact a Michigan electric scooter accidents lawyer for advice. A skilled attorney at Buckfire & Buckfire, P.C. is ready to discuss your case, answer your questions, and work to pursue a claim on your behalf.
- What are Common Causes of E-Scooter Crashes?
- Determining Negligence in Michigan
- Lawsuits and Settlements
Michigan Law and Electric Scooters
Michigan law currently classifies electric scooters as electric skateboards, due to their maximum speeds of 25 mph. As a result, riders must follow specific rules that pertain to them, such as:
- Riding on the righthand side of the street
- Riding only on roads with a maximum speed limit of 45 mph or less
- Requiring riders under age 19 to wear helmets
- Prohibiting riders under age 12 from riding on public streets
Despite these rules, accidents and injuries are common. In most cases, either a rider, pedestrian, or other motorist is to blame.
Common Causes of E- Scooter Crashes
Many situations can lead to E-scooter crashes. Inexperienced operators of scooters, reckless motorists, and inattentive pedestrians can all cause accidents.
Other possible reasons include:
- Road hazards, like potholes
- Broken sidewalks, including large cracks
- Drivers running stops and red lights
- Drunk drivers and those under the influence of drugs
- Distracted drivers, including those texting while driving
Like motor vehicle accidents, different causes may contribute to electric scooter accidents. In many cases, a driver will claim not to see the scooter before the crash because of poor lighting in the area and the operator wearing dark clothes.
Defective scooters may also cause equipment malfunctions that can lead to crashes. When a scooter suddenly stops or turns off, the driver may be thrown from it and suffer a serious traumatic injury. It is smart to wear a protective helmet to prevent a concussion or traumatic brain injury.
If individuals suffer injuries in these accidents due to the negligence of others, they should call an electric scooter accidents lawyer in Michigan for advice.
Determining Negligence in Michigan
Liability in electric scooter accidents is usually based on negligence. Negligence is a lack of reasonable care for the safety of others. Drivers owe a duty of care to the drivers, pedestrians, and E-scooter riders around them. When they fail to live up to this standard of care, they can be held liable for any injuries that result.
For instance, if a driver of a truck fails to obey a stop sign and hits a scooter, the driver likely is negligent in causing the accident. As a result, they can be pursued for a claim. However, if a scooter is faulty, things can become complicated. Any user agreement signed by a rider might leave them unable to pursue a manufacturer for a defect that caused their injuries.
A skilled Michigan lawyer can help to assess liability after an electric scooter accident and determine the validity of a claim.
Lawsuits and Settlements
Anyone injured in a scooter accident that resulted from someone else’s careless actions can file a lawsuit. Lawsuits demand compensation for the serious injuries caused in the crash. These include payouts for pain and suffering, fright and shock, and disability. Settlements also include compensation for any scars or serious disfigurements resulting from the accident.
If the crash was caused by a motor vehicle, like a car or truck, the injured person may also be entitled to no-fault insurance benefits. These include payment of medical expenses, lost wages, household services, and other valuable benefits. Our legal team will determine if you qualify for these payments and will assist you in filing the required paperwork.
Contact a Michigan Electric Scooter Accidents Attorney
The increasing presence of electric scooters has resulted in serious accidents throughout Michigan. If you were injured in a crash, contact our award-winning lawyers today to start your case. We will begin working on your case immediately.
We do not charge any legal fees unless you win a settlement.
Electronic Scooter Safety Resources
E-Scooter Safety Study
Consumer Reports Safety
Michigan Electric Scooter Statue
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