In Los Angeles, it’s hard to walk down a busy street without seeing rows of e-scooters and e-bikes. Companies like Bird, Lime, Lyft, and Spin have made these micro-mobility options popular for quick trips across the city. For some, they’re convenient and eco-friendly alternatives to driving.
But with convenience comes risk. Accidents involving e-scooters and e-bikes are on the rise in LA. From collisions with cars to falls caused by poor road conditions, these accidents often lead to serious injuries. Victims are left with medical bills, lost income, and questions about who should be held responsible.
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident in Los Angeles, here’s what you need to know about your rights and the legal steps you should take.
Why E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents Are Different
Unlike traditional car accidents, e-scooter and e-bike accidents involve unique legal and safety challenges:
- Shared Liability: Riders, motorists, scooter companies, and even the city may share fault.
- Regulatory Gaps: Laws governing e-scooters and e-bikes in California are still evolving.
- Severe Injuries: Riders are exposed and lack the protection of a car, making head injuries, fractures, and spinal cord damage more common.
- Insurance Complications: Many scooter rental agreements include liability waivers, which complicate claims against the company.
Common Causes of E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents in Los Angeles
- Negligent Drivers - Cars failing to yield, opening doors into riders, or speeding in bike lanes.
- Defective Equipment - Malfunctioning brakes, batteries, or tires on rented scooters and bikes.
- Poor Road Conditions - Potholes, uneven pavement, and a lack of bike lanes.
- Rider Error - Inexperience, reckless riding, or riding under the influence.
- Crowded Areas - Sidewalks, crosswalks, and high-traffic intersections increase risk.
Legal Steps to Take After an E-Scooter or E-Bike Accident
1. Get Medical Help Immediately
Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, e-scooter and e-bike accidents often cause delayed symptoms like concussions or internal injuries. Medical records also serve as vital evidence for your claim.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
In Los Angeles, always report accidents involving injuries or significant property damage. The police report can help document fault and establish key facts.
3. Document the Scene
- Take photos of your injuries, damaged scooter/bike, and surrounding area.
- Capture road conditions, signage, and traffic signals.
- Note the make and model of the scooter or bike if it was a rental.
4. Gather Witnesses
Collect names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. Independent witnesses can strengthen your claim.
5. Preserve the Scooter or Bike
If possible, keep the device in its post-accident condition. If it’s a rental, report the incident through the app and request that the vehicle not be altered until inspected.
6. Avoid Signing Anything Without Legal Advice
Scooter companies often include waivers or settlement agreements in their apps. Do not sign or agree to anything before consulting with a lawyer.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
An experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer like Esther Estrada La Abogada can identify liable parties, preserve electronic data from scooter companies, and help you navigate insurance and liability disputes.
Who May Be Liable in an E-Scooter or E-Bike Accident?
Determining liability is one of the most complex parts of these cases. Potentially responsible parties may include:
- Motorists who hit riders or drive negligently
- Scooter/E-Bike Companies, if defective equipment caused the crash
- City or Government Entities for unsafe road conditions (requires special legal steps)
- Other Riders or Pedestrians in cases of collisions on sidewalks or crosswalks
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of e-scooter and e-bike accidents may be entitled to damages for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages in fatal cases
Frequently Asked Questions About E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents
Do rental agreements prevent me from suing the scooter company?
Not always. Waivers may not protect companies from liability if the accident was caused by gross negligence or defective equipment.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
California law does not require helmets for riders over 18, but not wearing one may impact the amount of compensation you receive.
Can I sue the city if a pothole caused my crash?
Yes, but claims against government entities require a special filing within six months of the accident.
What if I was partly at fault?
California follows comparative negligence rules. Even if you share responsibility, you may still recover compensation, reduced by your percentage of fault.
Do I need a lawyer for these cases?
Yes. Between scooter companies, insurers, and city governments, liability disputes are complex. Having a lawyer ensures your rights are protected.
Quick Legal Terms Explained
Comparative Negligence: California rule allowing compensation even if you are partly at fault.
Liability Waiver: A contract that limits a company’s responsibility for injuries, though not always enforceable.
Duty of Care: The legal obligation of drivers, companies, and cities to act reasonably to prevent harm.
Personal Injury Claim: Legal action to recover damages after an accident caused by someone else’s negligence.
Quick Tip
After an e-scooter or e-bike accident, save your ride history and app screenshots from the scooter or e-bike company. This data can help prove when and where you were riding, and may be critical to your case.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you or a loved one was injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident in Los Angeles, don’t wait. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case can be.
Contact Esther The Lawyer for a free consultation and get the support you deserve.
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📧 Email: info@estradalawgroup.com
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