North Carolina Injury Lawyer Blog
Electric scooters have become a popular alternative to many common forms of transportation. They are often a more affordable option and provide greater flexibility in terms of navigating crowded roadways, parking, and fighting morning or evening commutes. For all their benefits, however, there are many risks involved with using an e-scooter as a form of conveyance. For starters, scooters are not as visible as regular passenger vehicles, making them difficult for other motorists to see. A knowledgeable Charlotte motor vehicle accident lawyer can help you determine if you are entitled to compensation following a scooter injury accident.
Recently, North Carolina residents have experienced an uptick in scooter-related injuries. According to an article from Charlotte Observer, there have been 35 injuries reported involving electric scooters throughout Charlotte and Raleigh between January 2018 and May 2019. With 82 total crashes reported in the broader region, e-scooter accidents represented 42% of total accidents. So far, scooter accidents have not resulted in fatalities, but there have been at least eight deaths in the US associated with using a rentable e-scooter between 2017 and now, according to Consumer Reports.
Part of the uptick in accidents may be attributable to an increasing number of companies offering scooter rentals. This makes scooters available to people who may not have the experience or skill necessary to operate the devices safely. Although scooters are far different from passenger vehicles, operators should still use caution when riding them through congested areas and should pay attention to traffic laws. Even if a scooter rider has the right of way, a passing truck or car may not see the scooter or may assume that the scooter will stay on the sidewalk. It is also important to note that scooter riders need a motorcycle license to operate the machines on public roadways and must wear a helmet at all times.
If you were involved in a scooter accident, you may be entitled to compensation from the person who caused the crash. A scooter accident can happen in a variety of ways. It may be an untrained scooter rider who collides with a passing pedestrian or a vehicle that crashes into a scooter in a crosswalk. the first step to recovering compensation is to show that the person who caused your injuries acted negligently at the time of the accident. This means using the same ordinary care and skill that a reasonable and prudent person would use when encountering the same situation.
You will also need to show that the person’s lack of due care was the direct cause of your injuries. If you satisfy these elements, you will be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages related to the accident, including past and future medical bills as well as lost wages.
Motor vehicle accidents are often a stressful and startling experience for the victim. You probably have many questions about what you will need to prove and whether you are entitled to compensation. Maurer Law provides a free consultation to help you learn about your options and whether we may be able to assist you. To schedule your free consultation, call us as soon as possible at 1-888-258-1087 or contact us online.