Electric scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in cities across the country, and Fresno is no exception. In 2023 alone, Americans took an estimated 65 million trips on shared e-scooters. While convenient and fun, scooter use comes with a unique set of risks. Scooter riders are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries due to their lack of protection and the inherent instability of these vehicles.
If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident in Fresno because of someone else’s negligence, the experienced attorneys at Berg Injury Lawyers are here to defend your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Scooter Accidents in Fresno
Scooter accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, often involving a complex interplay of factors related to the rider, the environment, and other road users. Understanding these causes is crucial in promoting safety and determining liability.
- Reckless Drivers: Since e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on sidewalks and must share the road with cars and other large vehicles, scooter riders are particularly vulnerable to reckless drivers who fail to yield the right of way, make sudden turns, or drive too close to scooters. Drivers are supposed to be aware of their surroundings and share the road responsibly, but unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen.
- Road Hazards: Fresno’s roads can present challenges for scooter riders, with potholes, cracks, and uneven pavement posing significant risks to scooters’ stability. These hazards can cause riders to lose control of their scooters, leading to falls and injuries.
- Scooter Malfunction: Malfunctioning brakes, faulty accelerators, or other equipment defects can contribute to scooter accidents. Regular maintenance and safety checks are crucial responsibilities of scooter rental companies.
- Negligent Scooter Riders: While often the victims of crashes, scooter riders can also contribute to accidents through their own negligence and injure other people. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, or disregarding traffic laws can endanger both the rider and others on the road, especially pedestrians.
Injuries Common in Scooter Accidents
Scooter accidents, due to the rider’s physical vulnerability, often result in a range of moderate to severe injuries. Understanding the potential consequences of a scooter crash or vehicle collision underscores the importance of safety precautions and responsible road sharing.
- Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries: When riders fall or are thrown from their scooters, they may suffer road rash, a type of friction burn causing painful abrasions and lacerations to the skin, which often leads to infection. Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, are also common.
- Fractures or Broken Bones: Falls from scooters can result in fractures to various parts of the body, including the arms, wrists, legs, and collarbone. These injuries can be painful, require surgery or immobilization, and necessitate lengthy rehabilitation.
- Head or Brain Injuries: Head injuries are common in scooter accidents, especially when riders are not wearing helmets. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries, potentially leading to long-term cognitive and motor impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: In severe scooter accidents, riders may suffer spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries are life-altering and require extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a scooter accident, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, may not be visible, and early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and promote optimal healing.
Who Is Liable in a Scooter Accident?
Determining liability in a scooter accident can be complex, as it often involves multiple parties and a careful assessment of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Identifying the responsible party is crucial in pursuing a successful scooter accident claim.
Liability can fall on various parties, depending on the specific circumstances:
- Drivers: Drivers who fail to yield, drive recklessly, or are otherwise negligent can be held liable for injuries to scooter riders.
- Scooter Riders: Riders who operate scooters under the influence, violate traffic laws, or ride recklessly can be held responsible for injuries they cause to others.
- The City or Municipality: If hazardous road conditions, such as potholes or inadequate signage, contribute to the accident, the city of Fresno may potentially be held liable for failing to maintain safe roadways.
- Scooter Companies and Rental Platforms: Scooter rental companies have a responsibility to provide safe and well-maintained equipment. If a malfunctioning scooter contributes to an accident, the company may be held liable.
Holding all negligent parties accountable requires a thorough investigation, which includes gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, GPS data, medical records, and expert testimony. An experienced Fresno scooter accident lawyer can help you prove liability and build a strong case to get you compensation.
Compensation Available for Scooter Accident Victims
Scooter accidents can lead to significant expenses and hardships for victims. Fortunately, injured riders may be entitled to various forms of compensation to help them recover and rebuild their lives after their injuries.
Compensation can cover a wide range of medical costs, including:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization
- Surgery
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Prescription medications
- Medical equipment and assistive devices
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can also seek compensation for:
- Lost wages during your recovery period
- Reduced earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous job or earn the same level of income in the future
Compensation can also address non-economic damages, such as:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Securing fair compensation requires thorough documentation of your injuries, expenses, and losses—both current and future. An experienced Fresno scooter accident lawyer can help you navigate this process and advocate for your rights.
Why Choose Berg Injury Lawyers for a Scooter Accident Case?
Navigating the aftermath of a scooter accident can be overwhelming. Having an experienced and dedicated legal team on your side can make all the difference in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Here’s why Berg Injury Lawyers is the right choice for your Fresno scooter accident case:
- Experience With Scooter Accident Claims: We have a proven track record of successfully handling scooter accident claims, including those involving complex liability issues, catastrophic injuries, and disputes with insurance companies.
- Client-First Approach and Local Expertise in Fresno: We prioritize our clients’ needs and well-being, providing personalized attention and compassionate support throughout the legal process. Our deep understanding of Fresno’s laws and regulations also gives us a distinct advantage in local cases.
- Proven Success in Maximizing Compensation: We are committed to fighting for the maximum compensation our clients deserve. Our skilled negotiators and litigators will work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement or pursue your case in court if necessary.
Contact Our Fresno Scooter Accident Lawyers Today
With Berg Injury Lawyers, you can rest assured that you have a dedicated team fighting for your rights and best interests. If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident in Fresno, contact us today for a free consultation.
