Electric Scooter Malfunctions

Electric scooters have become a popular choice for getting around Los Angeles. Their convenience and eco-friendly appeal make them an attractive transportation option for short trips through the bustling city. However, when an electric scooter malfunctions, the results can be catastrophic, causing severe injuries or even fatalities.

If you’ve been injured due to a malfunctioning scooter, you may have the right to pursue compensation. McGee, Lerer & Associates, a trusted Los Angeles law firm, is here to help you through this challenging process.

Contact McGee, Lerer & Associates at (310) 231-9717 for skilled legal help after a scooter injury. Get the compensation you deserve—call today!

Common Electric Scooter Malfunctions

Electric scooters are not without risks. Riders rely on these devices to function safely, but when malfunctions occur, the consequences can be devastating. Some of the most common scooter malfunctions that lead to accidents include:

• Brake failures: Defective or improperly maintained brakes can prevent scooters from stopping in time, leading to collisions or falls.
• Loose or detached handlebars: Faulty handlebars can make it impossible to control the scooter, resulting in loss of balance.
• Throttle issues: A stuck throttle can send the scooter speeding uncontrollably, while sudden acceleration or deceleration can cause riders to lose control.
• Baseboard fractures: Cracks or breakage in the scooter’s baseboard can send riders tumbling to the ground.
• Wheel lockups: Front or rear wheel malfunctions, especially during braking, can cause the scooter to come to an abrupt stop, leading to dangerous accidents.
• Electrical problems: Unexpected battery depletion or a software glitch can leave the scooter disabled mid-ride on busy streets.

High-profile recalls, such as those issued by Lime due to faulty baseboards and battery-related fire risks, highlight the serious dangers these malfunctions pose. When something goes wrong, it takes a seasoned electric scooter accident lawyer to hold the responsible parties accountable. Filing a report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) can also help document your experience and contribute to public safety.

Examples:

Determining Liability When a Scooter Malfunction Causes an Accident

Unfortunately, malfunctioning electric scooters can lead to serious accidents and injuries. Determining liability in an electric scooter malfunction injury can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. The attorneys at McGee, Lerer & Associates carefully investigate each case to identify the at-fault party.

The key parties who may be held liable in an electric scooter malfunction case include:

• Manufacturer: If a defect in the design or production of the scooter caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws.
• Scooter Rental Companies: Companies like Bird, Lime, or Lyft have a responsibility to maintain their fleets and ensure that scooters are safe for public use. Failure to inspect and repair defective scooters can make them liable for resulting accidents.
• Maintenance Contractors: Some companies outsource maintenance to third parties. If negligent maintenance contributed to the malfunction, those contractors could be liable.
• Third Parties: If road hazards or obstacles created by third parties contributed to the accident, they may bear responsibility.

Evidence such as maintenance records, eyewitness testimony, and expert evaluations can help establish liability. An experienced attorney from McGee, Lerer & Associates can help gather and present this evidence to support your case.

California's Scooter Regulations

To ensure rider safety, California has implemented specific regulations governing the use of electric scooters. These rules apply whether you’re using your own scooter or renting one from a company.

Key regulations include:

• Helmet Requirements: Riders under 18 are required to wear a helmet.
• Licensing: Riders must possess a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit.
• Speed Limits: Scooters are limited to speeds of 15 mph.
• Road Usage: Scooters should be ridden in bike lanes where available. If no bike lane exists, they can be ridden on roads with speed limits under 25 mph.
• Sidewalk Prohibition: Riding on sidewalks is prohibited except when parking the scooter.

Compliance with these regulations is essential not only for rider safety but also for determining liability in the event of an accident. For instance, a violation of these rules may be used by insurance companies to argue comparative negligence, potentially reducing compensation.

Understanding and following these regulations can strengthen your case if you’re injured due to a scooter malfunction. McGee, Lerer & Associates will ensure that your rights are protected, even if the opposing party tries to use technicalities to deny your claim.

How McGee, Lerer & Associates Can Help

At McGee, Lerer & Associates, we understand the complexities of electric scooter malfunction cases. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling personal injury claims in Los Angeles and will fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

Here’s how we can assist:

• Thorough Investigation: We will investigate the accident, identify responsible parties, and gather evidence to build a strong case.
• Expert Testimony: Our network of experts can analyze scooter malfunctions and provide crucial testimony.
• Navigating Insurance Claims: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. We know their tactics and will negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
• Maximizing Compensation: We will seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• No Upfront Fees: You don’t pay unless we win your case.

If you’ve been injured due to an electric scooter malfunction, it’s essential to act quickly. California has strict time limits for filing personal injury claims. Contact McGee, Lerer & Associates today to schedule a free consultation.

Our attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent manufacturers and companies accountable and helping you recover the compensation you need to move forward.

Call now at (310) 231-9717 for a free consultation! Let McGee, Lerer & Associates help you secure the compensation you deserve.