Los Angeles Electric Scooter Accident Attorneys

We've Recovered Millions for Our Clients

Bird, Lime, Jump, and Spin electric scooters have made their way into the Los Angeles area, which has resulted in numerous accident and injury cases involving this controversial mode of transportation. Although some say that electric scooters offer consumers an innovative and environmentally friendly way to travel around the city, many of the people operating them are reckless and do not realize the many dangers and injury risks that come with these motorized vehicles.

In addition to reckless operators, the appearance of Bird, Lime, Jump, and Spin electric scooters in Los Angeles has also disrupted city streets and sidewalks. When people leave their scooters unattended or abandon them in public spaces, pedestrians end up suffering serious injuries.

Netflix and Buzzfeed have even created a show called, "Follow This," where episode 3, "Scooter Wars," highlights our attorney Catherine Lerer talking about the dangers of electric scooters.

Click here to watch the video!

The following things increase the potential of accidents and injuries involving electric scooters:

• Riders who are too young to operate the scooter
• Failing to use proper safety gear
• Scooters being used in crowded public spaces and sidewalks
• Riders leaving their scooters on sidewalks and streets
• Tandem scooter riding

If you have been involved in an accident with an electric scooter, you should immediately speak to our team of electric scooter accident lawyers to discuss what legal options are available for you.

What Makes Electric Scooters So Dangerous?

The following things can contribute to an electric scooter accident:

• Road hazards: Potholes, gravel, roadway debris, and uneven surfaces can all cause a scooter operator to lose control of the vehicle.
• Panic stop: when a scooter operator is forced to suddenly hit the brakes, it can cause the front wheel to lock. This often results in the rider being flung from the scooter.
• Lack of visibility: Because electric scooters are much smaller than other vehicles, it is much harder for drivers to see them when making turns or changing lanes.
• Reckless behavior: High-risk behavior, like not wearing a helmet or other types of safety gear, puts scooter riders at a higher risk of sustaining a serious injury. Other examples of reckless behavior includes riding with more than one rider at a time, going against traffic, and operating a scooter while intoxicated.

Under California Vehicle Code Section 21235, all motorized scooter operators must:

• Wear a helmet
• Have a valid driver’s license or instruction permit
• Operate the scooter without any passengers

In addition to these requirements, scooter operators can’t abandon their scooters on sidewalks or areas that will impede pedestrian traffic. Riders are also not permitted to use a scooter on any sidewalks, unless entering an adjacent property. Last, California Vehicle Code Section 21223 states that a motorized scooter must have a front light and reflectors if it will be used at night.