Pasadena Electric Scooter Accident Attorneys

Serving E-Scooter Accident Clients Throughout Pasadena & Los Angeles County

Bird, Lime, Jump, and Spin electric scooters have made their way into the Pasadena area, which has resulted in numerous accident and personal injury cases involving this controversial mode of transportation. Although some say that electric scooters offer consumers an innovative and environmentally friendly way to travel around the city, many of the people operating them are reckless and do not realize the many dangers and injury risks that come with these motorized vehicles.

Netflix and Buzzfeed have even created a show called, "Follow This," where episode 3, "Scooter Wars," highlights our attorney Catherine Lerer talking about the dangers of electric scooters.

Watch the video here.

In addition to reckless operators, the appearance of Bird, Lime, Jump, and Spin electric scooters in Pasadena has also disrupted city streets and sidewalks. When people leave their scooters unattended or abandon them in public spaces, pedestrians end up suffering serious injuries.

The following things increase the potential of accidents and injuries involving electric scooters:

• Riders who are too young to operate the scooter
• Failing to use proper safety gear
• Scooters being used in crowded public spaces and sidewalks
• Riders leaving their scooters on sidewalks and streets
• Tandem scooter riding

If you have been involved in an accident with an electric scooter, you should immediately speak to our team of personal injury lawyers to discuss what legal options are available for you.

What Makes Electric Scooters So Dangerous?

The following things can contribute to an electric scooter accident:

• Road hazards: Potholes, gravel, roadway debris, and uneven surfaces can all cause a scooter operator to lose control of the vehicle.
• Panic stop: when a scooter operator is forced to suddenly hit the brakes, it can cause the front wheel to lock. This often results in the rider being flung from the scooter.
• Lack of visibility: Because electric scooters are much smaller than other vehicles, it is much harder for drivers to see them when making turns or changing lanes.
• Reckless behavior: High-risk behavior, like not wearing a helmet or other types of safety gear, puts scooter riders at a higher risk of sustaining a serious injury. Other examples of reckless behavior includes riding with more than one rider at a time, going against traffic, and operating a scooter while intoxicated.

Under California Vehicle Code Section 21235, all motorized scooter operators must:

• Wear a helmet
• Have a valid driver’s license or instruction permit
• Operate the scooter without any passengers

In addition to these requirements, scooter operators can’t abandon their scooters on sidewalks or areas that will impede pedestrian traffic. Riders are also not permitted to use a scooter on any sidewalks, unless entering an adjacent property.

California Vehicle Code Section 21223 states that a motorized scooter must have a front light and reflectors if it will be used at night.

Common Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents

Electric scooter accidents can occur for various reasons, including:

• Negligent Motorists: Drivers failing to yield to or notice scooter riders.
• Scooter Defects: Malfunctioning brakes, unstable wheels, or faulty components.
• Dangerous Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, or poorly maintained roads.
• Reckless Riding: Speeding, unsafe maneuvers, or operating under the influence.
• Pedestrian Interactions: Accidents involving crowded sidewalks or inattentive pedestrians.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Scooter Accident?

Liability for an electric scooter accident will depend on which party was at fault. In general, the following parties can all be sued for an electric scooter accident if they are found to be at fault:

• Electric scooter riders
• Pedestrians
• Car or truck drivers
• Businesses
• Cities
• Electric scooter companies

Pedestrian & Electric Scooter Accidents

Pedestrians often face risks from electric scooters, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic such as Old Pasadena and other bustling parts of the city. Common scenarios include:

• Collisions on Sidewalks: Riders improperly using pedestrian pathways.
• Trip-and-Fall Accidents: Pedestrians encountering parked scooters left carelessly in walkways.
• Shared Responsibility: Situations where both the pedestrian and the scooter rider may share fault.

If you are a pedestrian injured by an electric scooter, our team can help determine liability and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Injuries Commonly Associated with Electric Scooter Accidents

Electric scooter accidents can cause severe injuries, including:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Cuts, lacerations, and road rash
• Internal organ damage

Prompt medical attention and legal representation are essential to protecting your health and your rights.

Compensation for Electric Scooter Accident Victims

Victims of electric scooter accidents in Pasadena may be entitled to compensation, including:

• Medical expenses, both current and future
• Lost income and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Rehabilitation costs
• Property damage

Our Pasadena personal injury attorneys are dedicated to maximizing the compensation you receive to support your recovery.

Speak to Our Team of Pasadena Electric Shooter Accident Lawyers Today

At McGee, Lerer & Associates, we are dedicated to helping accident victims recover the maximum amount of compensation they are entitled to under the law. We understand that injuries caused by an electric scooter accident can impact you and your family for the rest of your life, which is why we are here to guide you through the legal process. Our Pasadena electric scooter accident lawyers can review the details of your case and determine a strong legal strategy that will ensure your rights and interests are fully protected.

Our Approach:

• Comprehensive Investigation: Gathering evidence, consulting with experts, and reconstructing the accident scene.
• Client-Centered Representation: Open communication and a focus on your needs throughout the legal process.
• Proven Results: A history of achieving favorable outcomes for personal injury victims.

Contact out Pasadena personal injury attorneys to request your free initial consultation.

California Electric Scooter Accident FAQs

1. What steps should I take after an electric scooter accident?

Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.

Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the report.

Collect evidence, such as photos and witness contact information.

Avoid discussing fault or signing insurance documents without consulting an attorney.

2. Can pedestrians injured by scooters file a claim?

Yes, pedestrians injured by scooters can file a claim against the rider, the scooter company, or other liable parties, depending on the circumstances of the accident.

3. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

California’s comparative negligence rule allows you to recover compensation even if you are partially at fault. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

4. Are scooter companies responsible for accidents?

Scooter companies may be held liable for accidents caused by defective equipment or inadequate maintenance of their fleet.

5. How long do I have to file an electric scooter accident claim?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is typically two years from the date of the accident. Acting promptly is crucial to preserving evidence and protecting your rights.