Chicago Scooter Accident Attorney
Electronic scooters have arrived in Chicago. This electric scooter or “e-scooter” has been a strong source of debate in the other cities they operate in — and for good reason. Many people have sustained electric scooter accident injuries either while riding an e-scooter or being hit by someone riding one. Due to the rapid spread and newness of e-scooters, many cities have yet to implement safety guidelines. The lack of regulations puts e-scooter riders, pedestrians, and motorists in danger.
If you or your loved one has suffered injuries while riding an electric scooter or due to the negligence of someone else riding an e-scooter, you can seek monetary damages through an insurance claim or a lawsuit. With the help of a trustworthy accident attorney, you can obtain fair compensation and hold the negligent party responsible for what happened to you. Contact us today to speak with an experienced Chicago scooter accident lawyer.
What is an Electric Scooter?
This means of transport operates on electric machinery, which makes it a heavier type of vehicle than a traditional manual scooter. Both locals and tourists can rent one of these electric-powered vehicles and drive them everywhere, from sidewalks to city streets. Riders are not required to carry a license, insurance, or registration to operate an e-scooter. They are, however, encouraged to wear protective gear. E-scooter companies Lime and Bird remind riders to wear helmets to avoid accidents while using an electric scooter.
Despite the rise in e-scooter accidents resulting in injuries, no national regulations have been implemented to manage the use of these vehicles. Instead, cities are enforcing limits to keep these electric scooters at bay. Chicago, for instance, has put forward the following restrictions concerning the scooter rental program:
- The maximum speed while driving the scooter is 15 miles per hour.
- Riders can only operate the e-scooters in specific areas, which include a huge section of West, Southwest, and Northwest sides of Chicago.
- The maximum number of scooters that can operate in these areas is 3,500.
- The program will run from June 15, 2019, to October 15, 2019.
Common Accidents Involving Electric Scooters
While operating an e-scooter is a simple and cost-effective way of getting through a city, riders do not always have safety and caution at the top of their minds. Preventable electric scooter accidents can occur when users do any of the following:
- Disobey Traffic Laws – Electric scooter users need to follow traffic laws just like motorists, bikers and pedestrians. They are likely to crash into someone or something if they fail to adhere to the rules of the road.
- Use Mobile Phones while riding– The concept of distracted driving applies to e-scooters. Texting (or using a smartphone GPS app) while riding the electric-powered vehicle is dangerous. Riders will have a hard time keeping their eyes on the road.
- Park the Vehicle Incorrectly – Due to the lack of regulation or education of these e-scooters, riders often park the scooters in unsafe areas. Scooters can also pose a serious hazard to pedestrians and motorists when riders abandon their vehicles in the middle of the sidewalk or in a roadway.
Sometimes, e-scooter riders get into an accident due to circumstances that are beyond their control. This may be due to any of the following reasons:
- Road Hazards – Not all cities can accommodate electric scooters. Road problems, such as potholes, litter, and ice, can cause riders to crash.
- Machinery Malfunctions – Sometimes, the components of the scooter is the main culprit. Brakes can fail. The battery can die in the middle of the ride. All these events can seriously injure the e-scooter user.
Real-Life Cases of Electric Scooter Accidents
Sadly, these electric-powered vehicles have caused significant damage and casualties in many cities in the U.S. An investigation conducted by Consumer Reports revealed that e-scooters were responsible for at least 1,500 injuries and deaths in 2018. Many of these unwanted electric scooter accidents resulted in lifelong consequences for the victims.
A rider from Minnesota sustained injury from an e-scooter crash. He was unconscious for about two weeks and had to have a portion of his skull removed. Additionally, he will likely have to go through years of therapy to achieve complete recovery.
A Lime user, and resident of San Diego, California, was another e-scooter accident casualty. When his vehicle hit a bump, he crashed headfirst into the cement walkway. He was seriously injured.
Legal Options for E-Scooter Accident Victims
Whether you’re an e-scooter rider, a pedestrian, or a motorist, the injuries caused by this electric-powered vehicle can be severe. If you suspect that someone is liable for what happened, you could seek monetary damages. If you plan to do so, it’s wise to approach a reputable Lime and Bird e-scooter accident attorney for assistance. Your electric scooter personal injury lawyer in Chicago can help you claim various forms of compensation, such as:
- Past and Future Medical Bills
- Past and Future Lost Wages
- Past and Future Pain and Suffering
- Past and Future Disability or Loss of a Normal Life
- Disfigurement
Speak To An E-Scooter Accident Attorney In Chicago Today
If you’re looking for a reliable electric scooter accident attorney in Chicago, choose Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC. We have skilled e-scooter injury lawyers who are ready to protect your rights and help you obtain just compensation. When you ask us to assist you in your case, we utilize modern technology to get the maximum value for your claim.
Arrange a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable accident attorneys by dialing (312) 586-1700.