E-scooters, e-bikes, and other micromobility devices have become a common sight on city streets and sidewalks across the country. They provide an affordable and convenient mode of transportation, particularly for short trips. However, their rise has also led to an increase in accidents and injuries. When these incidents occur, determining liability can be complex. At Aronberg & Aronberg, Injury Law Firm, we help injured individuals understand their rights and pursue compensation from the responsible parties.
Micromobility refers to lightweight vehicles such as e-scooters, e-bikes, and electric skateboards, typically designed for short-distance travel. While these vehicles are efficient and environmentally friendly, their riders are vulnerable in collisions. Unlike car occupants, they have no external protection, meaning that even minor impacts can cause serious injuries such as fractures, concussions, or internal trauma.
Accidents involving micromobility devices often occur because of negligent drivers, poor road maintenance, or mechanical malfunctions. Determining who is at fault requires a careful review of the circumstances surrounding the crash.
One of the most common causes of e-scooter accidents is driver negligence. Motorists who fail to check blind spots, speed through intersections, or open doors into bike lanes put riders at significant risk. When a vehicle driver’s careless or reckless behavior causes an accident, they can be held liable for the injuries that result.
In such cases, victims may file a personal injury claim against the driver’s insurance policy to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. However, insurance companies often attempt to minimize compensation by arguing that the scooter rider contributed to the accident. Having experienced legal representation is essential to counter these claims and establish liability.
In some situations, the scooter or micromobility company itself may be at fault. Shared e-scooter companies have a duty to maintain their equipment in safe working condition. If a malfunction such as faulty brakes, battery failure, or steering issues causes an accident, the company may bear responsibility for failing to perform adequate maintenance or quality control.
Defective scooters can also give rise to product liability claims against the manufacturer. In these cases, proving that the defect directly caused the injury is key. Aronberg & Aronberg’s attorneys carefully investigate such claims, often working with engineers or safety experts to establish the cause of the malfunction.
Public entities may also share responsibility if unsafe road conditions contribute to an accident. Potholes, uneven pavement, or poorly designed bike lanes can all lead to serious crashes for e-scooter riders. Cities are generally required to maintain public roadways and walkways in a reasonably safe condition. If they fail to repair known hazards or neglect proper signage, they can be held liable for resulting injuries.
Claims against municipalities are subject to specific procedures and time limits that differ from standard personal injury claims. For this reason, consulting an attorney immediately after the accident is critical.
Even if a rider is partially at fault, they may still be entitled to compensation. Under Florida’s comparative negligence law, damages are reduced by the rider’s percentage of fault rather than eliminated entirely. For example, if a rider is found 20 percent responsible for an accident and total damages are valued at $100,000, they could still recover $80,000. Understanding how comparative negligence applies to each case is a vital part of achieving fair compensation.
E-scooter and micromobility accidents raise unique legal questions that often involve multiple parties, including drivers, manufacturers, municipalities, and riders themselves. Identifying who is liable requires careful investigation and experienced legal analysis.
At Aronberg & Aronberg, Injury Law Firm, we have decades of experience representing clients in complex personal injury cases, including emerging areas of transportation law. If you or someone you know has been injured in a micromobility accident, our team is ready to evaluate your case and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
