Motorized scooters are quickly becoming a popular means of transportation. However, they also pose a serious risk of injury. Bird and Lime are the two most prominent companies in the motorized scooter industry. Failure to impose necessary safety requirements could lead to a serious accident. Riders and pedestrians could be at risk for traumatic brain injuries, lacerations, road rash, bruises, spinal cord trauma, broken or fractured bones, and other serious injuries.

Understanding the Risks of Motorized Scooters

In order to use a Bird or Lime scooter, riders simply have to download an app, provide their credit card information, and ride the scooter wherever they want to go. When they are finished, they simply leave the scooter for the next person. The lack of oversight and maintenance for the scooters puts riders at risk for an accident. Pedestrians and drivers are also at risk, because riders may leave the scooters lying on sidewalks or blocking driveways.

Motorized scooter accidents could be caused by:

  • Scooter equipment malfunctions
  • Riding on the sidewalk
  • Riding on the wrong side of the street
  • Rider inexperience
  • Failure to comply with safety protocols and traffic laws

Scooters have a high center of gravity and small wheels. They could become wobbly, or the front wheel could lock up while braking, sending the rider flying over the front. Bird and Lime continue to advertise their scooters as safe and efficient means of transportation without addressing the risks involved.

There are several steps you can take to increase your safety on a motorized scooter:

  • Inspect the scooter visually for wear and tear or tampering
  • Test the brakes as soon as you begin to ride to ensure they are fully functional
  • Avoid riding on the sidewalks
  • Always wear a helmet, even if you are an adult
  • Ride with the flow of traffic, and stay in a designated bike lane
  • Avoid riding in tandem on a single scooter

Pursing Compensation for a Scooter Accident

In many cases, the scooter company will make you sign a liability agreement that releases them from liability in case of an accident. However, there are other parties who may be responsible for your injuries, such as drivers, pedestrians, and private or public entities responsible for maintaining the road. If you have been injured, it is important to seek medical attention right away, and to request a copy of your medical records. You also need to get the contact information of any witnesses, and take pictures of the scene, if possible.

Depending on the case, you may be entitled to a settlement for pain and suffering, lost wages, emotional distress, medical bills, loss of enjoyment of life, and other damages. We will discuss your options and investigate the situation to determine who is liable. From start to finish, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys will help you file a claim and tenaciously uphold your right to a settlement.

If you have been injured in a Bird or Lime scooter accident, call The Kalka Law Group today at (404) 529-9371. We offer free consultations for your convenience.