Have you noticed how many electric scooter riders are now taking to the paths and byways in your area? These machines have become very fashionable, especially among younger people, and can often represent an affordable and practical way to get to work or school. Yet, an electric scooter can also represent a risk as a moving object in an often densely packed suburban area. So, if a scooter rider has injured you, what do you need to know about compensation, given that these machines are still relatively new?

Legal or Illegal

First of all, the law is not settled yet. Electric scooters are not legal for use on public roads or pathways in some states, and if caught, riders could face a significant fine. In other states, they may be legal but subject to certain rules, and certain jurisdictions have also introduced trial phases. In these particular locations, e-scooters may be available for rent, just as bicycles are elsewhere.

Who to Pursue

Your approach will depend on exactly where you are. If you are in a location where e-scooters are allowed, then your action may focus on the device's legal owner. If the rider in question had rented the scooter from one of the approved companies, the money that they paid would have included a premium to cover public liability. In this case, you will be able to claim against that policy for damages.

If the rider was using their own private machine, then they may be covered by their home and contents insurance policy. Of course, this would only apply if it was legal to ride the scooter in that jurisdiction.

Potential Consequences

As some of these scooters are ridden at relatively high speed in areas that are basically designed for pedestrians, it's easy to imagine the potential consequences. Your injuries may have been significant and have led to medical costs, loss of earnings, pain and suffering and other distress. You'll certainly want to get some compensation for all of this hardship, but it can often be difficult to unravel who should pay.

Expert Help

For this reason, always bring in a lawyer who specialises in personal injury and accident claims. They'll help you determine the relevant party, so you know whether to go after the individual, the owner of the electric scooter or perhaps a combination.

Moving Forward

Don't let uncertainty get in your way. While electric scooters may be new to your area, someone is still responsible for your injuries, and you need to do everything to find out how to respond.

For more information, contact a personal injury lawyer near you.