E-scooters, short for electric scooters, can be a quick, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to navigate the busy streets of New York City. Although e-scooters have become an increasingly popular means of transportation for New Yorkers and tourists alike, this popularity comes with a new set of legal challenges and safety concerns, including a rise in e-scooter accidents.
Determining liability in e-scooter accidents can be complex due to the novelty of e-scooters and the unique traffic laws surrounding their use. It's essential for New Yorkers to understand state traffic laws and how they apply to different means of transportation, from e-scooter operators to pedestrians to bicyclists.
Keep reading to learn more about liability in e-scooter accidents in the state of New York.
Determining Fault in an E-Scooter Accidents in NYC
When an e-scooter accident occurs, there are various factors to consider when determining liability. Generally, the responsibilities of the rider, the cause of the accident, and New York law all play critical roles.
E-Scooter Rider Liability
E-scooter riders in NYC have certain obligations under the law. They must adhere to traffic rules, only ride in designated areas where allowed, and not operate e-scooters under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If it's determined that the rider was negligent in fulfilling these responsibilities, the e-scooter operator could be held liable for the accident. If they follow the rules of the road and suffer injuries from a vehicle impact, the vehicle can be held responsible. On some occasions, The e-scooter company may also be held liable for accidents caused by e-scooters if the accident was caused by a product defect, malfunctioning machinery, or related issues, the company may be held liable for the e-scooter accident.
Local Laws and Regulations
In NYC, there are specific e-scooter laws in place to prioritize both the riders’ safety and the safety of the commuters around them.For example, riders are prohibited from operating e-scooters on sidewalks and must be 16 years of age or older. Violations of these regulations will apply when determining liability after an e-scooter accident.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents
The most common causes of E-Scooter accidents are the failure of vehicle drivers to observe the scooter. This happens very often when a vehicle is changing lanes or turning, especially when crossing a marked bike lane. Drivers operating commercial vehicles where the driver is seated high off the ground, may fail to look around or on the sides of the vehicle before moving from their lane. E-Scooter riders should anticipate that a turning vehicle may not have exercised due caution before making the turn.
Staying Safe on E-Scooters in NYC
While e-scooters can offer many benefits to busy New York commuters, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some safety tips when operating e-scooters in the crowded streets of New York City:
- Always wear a helmet and other protective gear
- Follow all traffic rules and e-scooter regulations
- Stay vigilant of your surroundings, especially pedestrians and traffic
- Regularly inspect your e-scooter to ensure it's in good working condition
While determining liability in an e-scooter accident in NYC can be complicated, taking the time to understand the traffic laws for e-scooter use can help New Yorkers avoid accidents and keep themselves and others safe from harm.
Importance of Hiring Experienced Representation
E-scooter accidents can happen in a blink of an eye, often leaving victims injured and confused about what steps to take next. If you or a loved one was injured in a New York e-scooter accident, it’s crucial to secure experienced representation from an e-scooter accident attorney as soon as possible, as they can use their in-depth understanding of personal injury law to fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.
A qualified personal injury lawyer can provide invaluable assistance to New Yorkers injured in rideshare accidents, including:
- Guide your steps throughout the legal process –Navigating personal injury law can be complex. A qualified attorney can explain the process, answer your questions, and ensure you understand your rights and obligations.
- Investigate the accident –Your lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation of the e-scooter accident, such as fortifying your case with all relevant evidence and interviewing witnesses to strengthen your claims.
- Negotiate effectively with insurance companies and involved parties –Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An experienced attorney knows how to negotiate effectively to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- Represent your best interests in court – If your case goes to trial, a skilled attorney can advocate on your behalf while keeping your best interests in mind to make your case as strong as possible.
- Pursue maximum compensation for your suffering –Your attorney can help calculate all of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, to ensure you seek the maximum compensation available. This is especially crucial in any personal injury cases, as many large and powerful entities attempt to bait plaintiffs with lowball settlements. Your lawyer can help prevent that from happening and ensure you receive the full amount you deserve.
Aggressive Representation for New York’s Injured
At Koenigsberg & Associates, we’ve provided strong representation to New York’s injured, fighting to obtain the maximum compensation they rightfully deserve. With over 25 years of experience, you can trust our firm to hold offending parties accountable for the negligence that caused your suffering. Our skilled personal injury lawyers have successfully handled thousands of cases, making us well-equipped to protect your rights and fight on your behalf. Don’t wait to demand the justice you deserve.
Don’t wait to demand compensation after a New York accident. Call (718) 690-3132 to request a consultation with an experienced NYC attorney.