What Happens When Someone is Injured in a Bird Scooter Accident?
With the increasing popularity of electric scooter companies, such as Bird and Lime, setting up in urban areas, there has been a corresponding rise in electric scooter accidents. While they offer a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, the lack of clear regulations, inadequate infrastructure, and the presence of inexperienced riders have contributed to a surge in injuries.
Common Bird or Lime scooter accidents include collisions with motor vehicles, pedestrians, or fixed objects, as well as incidents caused by mechanical malfunctions or road hazards. These accidents can result in serious consequences, such as broken bones, head injuries, or even long-term disabilities. Understanding the risks and legal implications is essential for anyone affected by a Bird scooter accident.
A Bird Scooter accident attorney at Doehrman Buba Ring can offer guidance and assistance in filing a scooter accident claim. Call our office today for a free consultation.
What is a Bird or Lime Scooter?
Bird and Lime Scooters are types of electric scooters designed for short-term rentals, typically accessed through a mobile application. These scooters have gained popularity in urban areas as a convenient, eco-friendly transportation option for short trips. Users can locate, unlock, and pay for a Bird or Lime Scooter using the app, and once their ride is complete, they leave the scooter in a designated area or along the sidewalk for the next user.
Equipped with electric motors, Bird and Lime Scooters provide a smooth ride and can reach speeds of up to 15 mph, making them an efficient alternative to walking or driving in congested city environments. Although practical, the widespread use of these scooters has raised safety concerns and legal complexities, especially when accidents occur.
What Laws Does Indiana Have for Electric Scooters?
Indiana has specific regulations to ensure the safe use of e-scooters like Bird and Lime Scooters. Under Indiana law, electric scooters are generally categorized as “micro mobility devices” and are subject to similar rules as bicycles. Riders are required to adhere to traffic laws, including stopping at traffic lights and stop signs, yielding to pedestrians, and riding in the direction of traffic.
The state permits these scooters to be operated on streets, bike lanes, and shared-use paths, though some municipalities may have additional restrictions that regulate where scooters can be ridden. Riders are strongly encouraged to wear helmets, though helmet use is not mandated for adults. However, minors under the age of 18 may be required to wear a helmet, depending on local city ordinances.
Scooters are typically limited to a maximum speed of 15 mph, which aligns with the capabilities of many electric scooters. It is also unlawful to carry passengers or operate an electric scooter under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as these behaviors pose severe safety risks. Additionally, riders should avoid obstructing sidewalks or other pedestrian pathways when parking scooters after use.
Common Scooter Injuries
Electric scooter accidents can result in various injuries, ranging in severity from minor scrapes to serious, life-altering conditions. Some of the most common injuries include cuts, bruises, and abrasions, often caused by sudden falls or collisions with other vehicles or objects. Fractures, particularly wrists, arms, and collarbones, frequently occur when riders attempt to break a fall. Head injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are also a significant risk, especially for riders not wearing helmets.
Additionally, soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and damage to ligaments or tendons, are common due to the abrupt impacts associated with accidents. Depending on the circumstances, spinal cord injuries and internal injuries may also result, underscoring the importance of safety precautions and responsible riding behavior.
If you are hurt in a scooter accident, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not immediately think you need care, you may have serious injuries that can cause complications later.
How Are Scooter Accidents Different From Car Accidents?
Scooter accidents differ from car accidents in several key ways, particularly in terms of the vulnerability of the scooter rider, the nature of the vehicles involved, and potential liability issues. First and foremost, electric scooter riders are far more exposed than car drivers and passengers. Scooters lack protective features such as seatbelts, airbags, or even metal frames to absorb impacts, which means riders can sustain severe injuries even in low-speed collisions.
Another important distinction lies in the size and visibility of the vehicles. Scooters are significantly smaller than cars, making them harder for motorists to see, especially in high-traffic areas or at night. This increased invisibility can lead to accidents caused by cars failing to yield or check blind spots. Additionally, uneven pavements, potholes, or sudden obstacles pose far greater risks to scooters than they do to cars, often causing riders to lose balance and crash.
Legally, scooter accidents can involve more complex liability scenarios. For example, liability may fall on the scooter company if an accident results from poor scooter maintenance or mechanical failure. Alternatively, responsibility could rest with the scooter rider, a pedestrian, another driver, or even the city due to unsafe road conditions. Navigating these legal intricacies often requires the expertise of a personal injury attorney who can investigate the specifics of your case and help determine where liability lies.
Do Bird Scooters Have Insurance?
Bird Scooters, as a company, provide liability insurance that covers specific situations in the event of accidents. However, this coverage is generally limited to incidents that arise due to defects in the scooter itself or issues directly attributable to the company. For instance, if a malfunctioning brake or other mechanical failure causes an accident, Bird’s insurance may cover the resulting damages.
It is important to note that Bird’s insurance does not typically extend to the rider’s own negligence or disregard for traffic laws. This means that if a rider operates a scooter recklessly, such as speeding, riding under the influence, or failing to adhere to local regulations, they may be held personally responsible for any injuries or property damage caused. Riders often need to rely on their personal medical or liability insurance to cover such situations.
Who Can File a Claim After a Bird Scooter Accident?
After a Bird scooter accident, several parties may have the right to file a lawsuit depending on the circumstances of the incident. The injured rider can file a lawsuit if they believe the accident was caused by a defective scooter, poor maintenance, or negligence on the part of the scooter company or a motor vehicle driver.
Similarly, pedestrians injured by a rider’s negligence may also pursue legal action against the rider or other responsible parties. Motorists or cyclists involved in collisions with scooter riders may have grounds to file a lawsuit if the rider’s actions contributed to the accident.
Compensation Awarded in Electric Scooter Accident Claim
Compensation generally covers medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages associated with a scooter accident. However, the process can be legally complex, requiring thorough investigations and evidence collection, such as eyewitness accounts, police reports, and medical records.
Retaining a skilled personal injury attorney experienced in Bird Scooter accident cases is advisable to ensure your rights are protected and to increase the likelihood of a favorable resolution of your claim. An attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you seek compensation tailored to your unique situation.
Hire an Experienced Attorney for Personal Injury Claim After a Scooter Accident
Scooter injuries can cause pain, suffering, and financial loss just like any other physical damage sustained in accidents. Bird and Lime Scooters are popular for their convenience and ease of use, but riders should be aware of the potential risks involved.
At Doehrman Buba Ring, our team understands the complexities of electric scooter liability. We will negotiate with insurance companies and responsible parties to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
