If you or a loved one has been injured in an e-scooter accident, determining who is liable is critical for seeking compensation. Contact us today.
E-scooters have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation in St. Louis, offering a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional vehicles. Companies like Lime, Bird, and Spin provide electric scooters for rent throughout the city, allowing users to ride on bike lanes, sidewalks, and streets. However, with their growing popularity, e-scooter accidents have also risen, leading to serious injuries and complex liability questions.
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident, contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal rights.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents
Several factors contribute to e-scooter crashes in St. Louis, including rider errors, pedestrian collisions, motor vehicle involvement, and road hazards.
Reckless or Inexperienced Scooter Riders
- Many riders lack experience operating an e-scooter, leading to sudden braking, sharp turns, or losing control.
- Riding under the influence (DUI) is a growing issue, with impaired riders posing risks to themselves and others.
- Scooter riders often fail to follow traffic rules, such as stopping at red lights or yielding to pedestrians (Missouri Department of Transportation).
Collisions With Motor Vehicles
- Drivers may fail to see an e-scooter rider, especially in blind spots or intersections.
- Distracted driving (texting or using GPS) is a leading cause of scooter-related car accidents.
- Right-turn collisions occur when drivers don’t check for scooter riders before turning at intersections.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Collisions
- Many e-scooter riders use sidewalks, leading to crashes with pedestrians.
- Riders traveling too fast in crowded areas can injure unsuspecting pedestrians or cyclists.
Defective or Malfunctioning Scooters
- Brake failures, battery malfunctions, and sudden acceleration issues can cause accidents.
- Rental companies are responsible for maintaining their scooters and could be liable for mechanical failures (Consumer Product Safety Commission).
Road Hazards and Poor Infrastructure
- Potholes, uneven pavement, and lack of bike lanes can cause scooter riders to lose control.
- Poorly maintained sidewalks and streets increase the risk of accidents, potentially making the city or property owners liable.
Who Can Be Held Liable in an E-Scooter Accident?
Determining liability depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. Several parties may be at fault, including:
The Scooter Rider
- If the rider was reckless, intoxicated, or violating traffic laws, they may be held responsible for any injuries they cause to pedestrians or cyclists.
A Negligent Motorist
- If a car, truck, or motorcycle driver causes an accident due to speeding, distracted driving, or failure to yield, the driver may be liable for the victim’s injuries.
- Missouri follows a comparative fault system, meaning liability can be shared between parties (Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 537.765).
The Scooter Rental Company (Lime, Bird, Spin, etc.)
- If the accident was caused by a faulty scooter, the rental company may be held liable under product liability laws.
- E-scooter rental agreements often include liability waivers, but these do not necessarily absolve the company from responsibility in cases of negligence or defective equipment.
The City of St. Louis or Property Owners
- If an accident was caused by poorly maintained roads, hazardous conditions, or construction obstructions, the city or private property owners may be liable under premises liability laws.
- Filing a claim against a government entity has strict deadlines and legal requirements.
Pedestrians or Cyclists
- If a pedestrian or cyclist suddenly steps before a moving scooter or causes an obstruction, they may be partially responsible for an accident.
What to Do After an E-Scooter Accident
If you’re involved in an e-scooter accident in St. Louis, follow these steps to protect your legal rights:
- Call 911 & Seek Medical Attention – Even minor injuries can worsen over time.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, scooter, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Collect Contact Information – Get names and numbers of witnesses, the other party involved, and insurance details if applicable.
- File a Police Report – A police report can support your injury claim.
- Do Not Sign Waivers – Avoid signing statements from the scooter company or insurance representatives without consulting a lawyer.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – A lawyer can evaluate your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for maximum compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of e-scooter accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation costs
- Property damage (e.g., if your bike or personal property was damaged)
Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm L.L.C Today
E-scooter accidents in St. Louis are becoming more common, and determining liability can be complex. Victims can seek justice and financial recovery if the crash involved a negligent driver, defective scooter, or dangerous road conditions.
If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident, contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal rights.