Electric Scooter Accidents In California

Southern California residents are debating whether to welcome electric scooters to their cities in force. While some say that electric scooters are a great way to decrease traffic and reduce reliance on cars, others argue that scooters come with their own risks and inconveniences.

As electric scooters become more popular, the question of legality in the event of an accident involving these scooters becomes an increasingly common question. As more Southern California residents and visitors use electric scooters, accidents are more likely to happen. If you or a loved one is injured in an accident involving an electric scooter, it is best to work with an experienced accident attorney to ensure a favorable outcome.

Definition of an Electric Scooter in California

When you’re talking about electric scooters, it is important to clarify what counts as one under California law. California law CVC §407.5 defines electric scooters as any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, a floorboard designed to be stood upon when driving, and is powered by a motor. California law does not require electric scooters to be registered nor does it require a class driver license for operation.

California Law on Operation of Electric Scooters

If you are riding an electric scooter on the road, you need to obey the same traffic and safety laws as any other vehicle. However, there are also some scooter-specific restrictions in California, such as:

• You need to wear a U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmet at all times.
• You cannot ride your scooters on roads with a speed limit greater than 25 miles per hour, unless there is a bike lane, in which case you can only ride in that lane.
• As with other vehicles, you cannot operate a motorized scooter on sidewalks.
• You cannot be a passenger on scooters, just the driver.
• You cannot operate your electric scooter faster than 15 miles per hour on the road.

Damages You Can Recover In an Electric Scooter Accident

When you are injured in an accident that was caused by another party, you may be entitled to monetary damages. Whether you are riding an electric scooter, in a car or a pedestrian, you may recover for your bodily injuries, property damages and other accident related costs. There is no limitation in your recovery just because you were riding a scooter or an electric scooter was involved in the collision.

The exact type of damages that you may be able to recover depends on the specific facts of your case. Common damages, however, include:

• Past and future medical bills
• Loss of income
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of consortium
• Mental and emotional suffering
• Any other out of pocket accident related costs

Contact an Experienced Los Angeles Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved has been injured in an accident involving an electric scooter, you should discuss your legal options with an attorney as you may be entitled to compensation. The Los Angeles scooter accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Samer Habbas advocate for our clients’ full financial recovery through hard work and aggressive lawyering. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our attorneys, please call the Law Offices of Samer Habbas at 949-727-9300.