Electric scooters, commonly known as E-scooters, can be a fun way to travel short distances around Tampa. Unfortunately, accidents involving these vehicles are common, especially when other drivers violate traffic rules and become distracted.
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in a Tampa E-scooter accident, a knowledgeable Tampa scooter accident lawyer can help. Your lawyer can review your accident’s circumstances and file a claim with your insurance company or the at-fault party’s insurer. They can then pursue the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Always take E-scooter accidents and injuries seriously. They are just as valid as any other type of motor vehicle collision, and you deserve full compensation under the law for your injuries.
How Do E-scooter Accidents Result from Others’ Negligence?
E-scooter accidents in Tampa often result from the negligence of others, leading to significant injuries and even fatalities. As E-scooters become increasingly popular for their convenience and eco-friendliness, the risks associated with their use rise, especially when other road users are not careful.
- One major cause of E-scooter accidents is distracted driving. Many motorists fail to notice E-scooters due to distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio. When drivers are not fully attentive, they may not see an E-scooter until it’s too late, leading to collisions. Additionally, drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way or who speed are particularly dangerous to E-scooter riders, who have less protection than car occupants.
- Poor road conditions also play a significant role in E-scooter accidents. Tampa’s infrastructure was not designed with E-scooters in mind. Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris can cause riders to lose control and fall. When the city fails to address these hazards in a timely manner, it can amount to negligence on the part of municipal authorities.
- Another aspect of negligence involves pedestrians and cyclists. In some cases, pedestrians stepping into bike lanes or abruptly crossing streets without checking for oncoming E-scooters can cause serious accidents. Cyclists who do not follow traffic laws or ride erratically can also threaten E-scooter riders. These interactions often result from a lack of awareness or respect for shared road spaces.
- Moreover, negligence by E-scooter companies may contribute to some accidents. If the E-scooters are not properly maintained, mechanical failures can occur. For instance, brakes may malfunction, or tires may become worn out, making the scooters unsafe to ride. Companies that fail to perform regular maintenance or ignore reports of malfunctioning scooters can be held liable for accidents resulting from their negligence.
If you suffered injuries, your scooter accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances and explore your available legal options.
Common Injuries in Tampa E-scooter Accidents
E-scooter accidents in Tampa often result in serious injuries, particularly when they occur due to others’ negligence. These accidents can significantly affect riders, leading to common injuries requiring medical attention and recovery time.
- One of the most frequent injuries in E-scooter accidents is fractures. Riders often fall on the ground or are thrown from their scooters when struck by a car (or if they hit an obstacle). The impact can cause broken bones, with common fractures occurring in the arms, wrists, and collarbones. These injuries may require immobilization, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery to heal properly.
- Head injuries are also prevalent in E-scooter accidents. When a rider is thrown off the scooter, they may hit their head on the ground or another object. This can lead to concussions, skull fractures, or even traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). TBIs can have long-lasting effects on cognitive and physical functions, making them particularly serious.
- Road rash is another common injury resulting from the rider skidding across the pavement after a fall. This type of injury can range from minor scrapes to severe abrasions that require medical treatment. Occasionally, road rash can lead to infections if not properly cared for.
- Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and bruises, are also common in E-scooter accidents. These injuries can affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons, causing pain and limiting mobility. Although they may not seem as severe as fractures or head injuries, soft tissue injuries can still require significant recovery time and physical therapy.
- Injuries to the face and teeth can occur if the rider lands face-first during a fall. This can result in broken teeth, facial fractures, and lacerations, requiring dental work and possibly reconstructive surgery.
If you suffered any of these injuries in a Tampa E-scooter accident, seeking medical treatment should be your top priority. An experienced E-scooter accident attorney can handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on getting better and making a full recovery.
Filing an E-scooter Accident Claim in Florida
Filing an insurance claim in Florida following an E-scooter accident due to someone else’s negligence involves several key steps. By following these steps, you are more likely to recover the full compensation you deserve for your accident-related injuries and losses:
- First, it’s essential to seek ongoing medical attention immediately after the accident – and to follow through with all treatment recommendations from your healthcare providers. Medical records are vital evidence in your insurance claim, documenting the extent of your injuries and the treatment required.
- Next, gather and retain as much evidence as possible. Photograph your E-scooter (if you owned it) and any visible injuries. Retain contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident firsthand. Their statements can provide an objective account of what happened, supporting your claim for compensation.
- You can obtain a copy of the police report or your scooter accident lawyer can do so for you. This official document includes important details about the incident and often indicates who was at fault. If the accident occurred on someone else’s property, inform the property owner or manager and file an incident report.
- After gathering the necessary evidence, your attorney can contact your insurance company to report the accident and begin the claims process. They can provide your insurer with all of the information you have collected, including medical records, photographs, witness statements, and the police report. If you speak to your insurance company, be brief in what you say, as your statements can affect your claim later on.
- Notifying the at-fault party’s insurance company about the accident is also important. They may conduct their own investigation, so cooperating with them is crucial, but be cautious about what you say. The best thing to do is allow your lawyer to handle all insurance communications so you avoid admitting any fault or downplaying the severity of your injuries.
- Finally, if you have not already, consult an experienced scooter accident attorney about your case. An attorney can calculate your losses so you know the compensation you need and deserve. They can negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf and ensure that you receive fair financial recovery for your accident-related losses.
Taking all of these steps after your E-scooter accident can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you need to recover for your injuries.
When to File a Third-Party Claim after an E-scooter Accident in Tampa
Filing a third-party claim after an E-scooter accident in Florida involves understanding when you can do so and knowing the legal elements of proof required to succeed. A third-party claim is against someone other than your insurer – typically the person or entity responsible for the accident. You may file a third-party claim in the following circumstances:
- Accident Involving Another Vehicle – If you were riding an E-scooter and a car hit you, you can file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This is especially applicable if the driver was at fault due to reckless driving, speeding, or violating traffic laws. The driver’s insurance policy may provide compensation through bodily injury coverage. Additionally, victims may be eligible to recover non-economic damages (including compensation for pain and suffering) if they suffered a permanent injury in their E-scooter accident.
- Defective E-scooter—If the accident resulted from a malfunctioning E-scooter, the victim may have grounds to file a claim against the manufacturer or rental company. This is relevant when the defect was due to poor maintenance or a design flaw.
- Hazardous Conditions – If the E-scooter rider’s injuries resulted from hazardous road conditions, like potholes or poor signage, they can potentially file a claim against the city or entity responsible for maintaining the area.
- Negligent Pedestrians or Cyclists—If a pedestrian or cyclist caused the accident, the E-scooter rider may be able to file a claim against them. This can happen if the pedestrian or cyclist was not paying attention or acting recklessly.
What Happens After Filing a Claim?
After filing a claim arising from an E-scooter accident in Florida, several steps will unfold to determine the outcome of your claim.
Once you’ve filed your claim, both your insurance company (if you have a motor scooter policy that provides medical payment insurance coverage) and the at-fault party’s insurance company will begin their investigations. They will review all the evidence you provide, including medical records, photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and the police report. These investigations aim to establish the facts of the case and determine liability.
During this time, insurance adjusters from both companies may contact you. They may ask you to provide additional information or clarify details about the accident. Cooperating with these requests is important, but be cautious about what you say. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating or admitting any fault. Anything you say can be used to influence the settlement.
Your medical treatment will continue, and it is crucial to follow your doctor’s recommendations closely. Keep detailed records of all medical expenses, treatments, and any time you miss work due to your injuries. These records are essential for calculating the total compensation you should receive, covering medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Once the investigations are complete, the insurance companies will determine the value of your claim based on the evidence and the extent of your injuries. They will then make a settlement offer. It’s important to review this offer carefully, as initial settlements may be lower than you deserve. Consulting with a personal injury attorney at this stage can be highly beneficial. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
If you cannot reach a fair settlement through negotiation, you may need to file a lawsuit. This involves taking the case to court, where a judge or jury will decide the outcome. While this process can be lengthy and complex, obtaining the full compensation you deserve may be necessary.
Following these steps carefully and seeking legal assistance can help ensure you receive fair compensation for all your accident-related losses.
Recovering Third-party Damages in a Tampa E-scooter Accident Case
Following injuries from a Tampa E-scooter accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various losses. These potential damages include:
- Medical Expenses – This is one of the most significant types of damages. It covers the cost of emergency room visits, hospital stays, procedures, doctor visits, prescription medications, and therapy. You can also include future medical expenses related to ongoing treatment or therapy you expect to require.
- Lost Income – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost income. This includes the time you have already missed and any future earnings you may lose if your ability to work is affected long-term. This ensures you have compensation for the financial effects of being out of work.
Non-economic damages may include compensation for:
- Past and future pain and suffering
- Loss of life enjoyment
- Loss of the ability to use a body part
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
Typically, to recover non-economic damages from an at-fault driver’s insurance company under Florida’s no-fault laws, you must have suffered a permanent injury in your accident.
Call an Experienced E-Scooter Attorney in Tampa Today
If you recently suffered injuries in a Tampa E-scooter collision, you are not alone. An experienced personal injury attorney in Tampa can determine your available options for compensation, file a claim with the appropriate insurance company, or litigate your case to a resolution in court.
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