Tracy Electric Scooter Injury Attorney

Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer in Tracy, California

Electric scooter accidents have become increasingly common in California as these popular transportation devices proliferate throughout urban areas, creating new legal challenges for victims who suffer injuries due to defective scooters, negligent drivers, or dangerous road conditions. The rise of e-scooter sharing programs has led to a surge in accidents involving both riders and pedestrians, with injuries ranging from minor scrapes to catastrophic head trauma and spinal cord damage.

At Setareh Law, we understand the unique legal complexities surrounding electric scooter accidents and have experience representing victims injured in these incidents throughout California. Our team of Tracy electric scooter accident lawyers knows how to navigate the evolving laws governing e-scooter use and identify all potential sources of liability to secure maximum compensation for our clients’ injuries and losses.

Understanding Electric Scooter Accident Liability

Electric scooter accident liability can involve multiple parties depending on the circumstances of the incident. Potential defendants may include negligent drivers who strike scooter riders, e-scooter companies whose defective or poorly maintained devices cause accidents, property owners who fail to maintain safe conditions, and government entities responsible for dangerous road conditions.

California law treats electric scooters similarly to bicycles in many respects, with riders having the right to use bike lanes and roadways while following specific safety requirements. However, the unique characteristics of e-scooters and their rapid proliferation have created gaps in existing laws that complicate liability determinations.

Common Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents

Driver negligence represents a leading cause of serious e-scooter accidents, particularly when motorists fail to see scooter riders or don’t provide adequate space when passing. Left-turn accidents, where drivers turn into the path of oncoming scooter riders, are particularly dangerous due to the limited protection e-scooter riders have.

Mechanical failures in electric scooters can cause sudden accidents, including brake failures, battery malfunctions, and steering problems. These defects may create liability for scooter manufacturers or rental companies that fail to properly maintain their fleets.

Common Electric Scooter Injuries

Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of e-scooter accidents, particularly because many riders don’t wear helmets despite California’s helmet requirements for riders under 18. Traumatic brain injuries can result in permanent disabilities and require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Facial injuries and dental damage are common when riders are thrown forward from their scooters during accidents. Fractures to arms, wrists, and legs frequently occur when riders attempt to break their falls or are struck by vehicles. Road rash and abrasions are also common when riders slide across pavement after falling.

Liability and Insurance Issues

Determining liability in electric scooter accidents requires analyzing multiple factors, including rider behavior, vehicle operator negligence, scooter mechanical condition, and road or property conditions. E-scooter rental companies may face liability for accidents caused by defective or poorly maintained scooters.

Insurance coverage for e-scooter accidents can be complex, as traditional auto insurance policies may not cover these devices. Some rental companies provide limited insurance coverage, but these policies often have low limits and significant exclusions.

Investigation and Evidence

Prompt investigation is crucial in e-scooter accident cases because evidence can disappear quickly. This includes downloading data from the scooter’s electronic systems, which may record speed, braking, and other operational information leading up to the accident.

Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras can provide crucial evidence about how accidents occurred. GPS and usage data from scooter apps can provide information about the device’s location, speed, and operational status before accidents.

California E-Scooter Laws

California law requires e-scooter riders under 18 to wear helmets and prohibits riding on sidewalks in most areas. Speed limits, licensing requirements, and operational restrictions vary by municipality, creating a complex regulatory environment that affects liability determinations.

California’s statute of limitations provides two years from the date of the accident to file e-scooter injury lawsuits. However, claims against government entities for dangerous road conditions may have shorter deadlines requiring prompt action.

Contact Setareh Law for Expert E-Scooter Accident Representation

How Can Setareh Law Help With Your Claim?

If you have been injured in an electric scooter accident, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer for legal representation that understands the unique challenges these cases present and can identify all potential sources of compensation for your injuries.

Setareh Law has recovered over $250 million for injured individuals throughout California, with 60 years of combined experience handling complex personal injury cases involving emerging transportation technologies. We understand e-scooter accident dynamics, California traffic laws, and the insurance issues these cases present. We handle all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no lawyers’ fees unless we secure compensation for your injuries. Contact one of our electric scooter accident attorneys at (310) 659-1826 or through our contact form to discuss your electric scooter accident case and learn how we can help you seek the compensation you deserve.