
E-bikes and e-scooters have surged in popularity, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel. However, their rise has also led to an increase in accidents, particularly involving pedestrians. Understanding the risks, liability concerns, and insurance requirements can help you stay safe whether you are a rider or a bystander.
The Growing Risk of E-Bikes and E-Scooters
Collisions involving e-bikes and e-scooters have become a significant safety issue in urban areas. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), e-bike and e-scooter-related injuries increased by 127% from 2017 to 2021. These incidents often result in serious injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and even fatalities.
The majority of injuries resulted from riders falling, accounting for 79.1%, while 16.1% were due to collisions. Additionally, 4.8% of cases involved pedestrians being struck by an e-scooter. The most affected age group was between 25 and 40 years old, comprising 55.5% of injured individuals, with 81.1% of those injuries caused by falls. (NLM)
E-Bikes and E-Scooters vs. Pedestrians
Pedestrians face increasing dangers from e-bikes and e-scooters, especially when:
- Riders speed through sidewalks, violating local laws.
- Scooters are left scattered on sidewalks, creating trip hazards.
- Reckless or inexperienced riders fail to control their vehicles properly.
Are Rental E-Bikes and E-Scooters a Liability for Pedestrians?
E-scooter and e-bike rental companies have faced lawsuits over injuries caused by their vehicles. The primary concerns include:
- Poor Parking Practices: Riders often leave scooters in the middle of sidewalks, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians.
- Malfunctioning Equipment: Defective brakes, worn-out tires, and software issues have led to serious accidents.
- Lack of Rider Accountability: Many rental companies do not require training or enforce helmet laws, increasing the risk of injuries.
A notable case in Los Angeles (2021) involved a pedestrian who tripped over a poorly parked rental scooter, suffering a broken hip. The victim sued the rental company for failing to regulate parking enforcement.
What Does the Rental Agreement Cover?
Before renting an e-bike or e-scooter, users must agree to terms and conditions that often:
- Waive Liability: Riders assume responsibility for any accidents or injuries.
- Limit the Company’s Accountability: Most agreements protect rental companies from lawsuits, even in cases of faulty equipment.
- Require Safe Riding Practices: Many agreements state that users must follow local traffic laws, though enforcement is minimal.
Reading the fine print is crucial, as most users are unaware they might be personally liable for damages if they cause an accident.
Do You Need Additional Insurance for E-Bikes and E-Scooters?
Most personal auto or homeowners insurance does not cover accidents involving e-bikes or e-scooters. Riders may need:
- Personal Liability Insurance: Covers damages if you injure someone or damage property.
- Medical Payments Coverage: Helps pay for medical bills if you are injured while riding.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if another rider or driver causes an accident and lacks adequate coverage.
Some cities now require riders to have insurance before using e-bikes or e-scooters, particularly for rental services.
How Fielding Law Can Help
If you were injured by an e-bike or e-scooter, you might have legal options to seek compensation. Fielding Law has experience handling pedestrian injury claims and can help determine liability, whether it is the rider, rental company, or manufacturer at fault.
Our team will investigate your case, gather evidence, and work to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK today for a consultation.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.