What Are the Emerging Trends in Electric Scooter Accidents in Denver?

Electric scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in Denver. However, with their increased use, there has been a corresponding rise in accidents. According to recent data from Denver Health, in 2023 there were 1,449 “patient encounters” involving scooter injuries, which comes out to almost four incidents per day.

One emerging trend is the increase in accidents involving pedestrians. Many electric scooter riders are not aware of the rules of the road, leading to collisions with pedestrians on sidewalks and crosswalks.

What Are the Rules for Electric Scooter Use in Denver?

In Denver, electric scooters are classified as “toy vehicles” under Colorado law. This means they are not subject to the same rules and regulations as motor vehicles. However, riders are still expected to adhere to basic traffic laws. For instance, electric scooters should be ridden on the road or in bike lanes, not on sidewalks. Riders should yield to pedestrians and obey traffic signals and signs.

Despite these rules, many electric scooter riders are either unaware of them or choose to ignore them. This can lead to accidents, especially when riders speed on sidewalks or fail to yield to pedestrians. If you’re a scooter rider, understanding and following these rules can help prevent accidents and protect your rights in case an accident occurs.

What Are the Legal Consequences for Electric Scooter Riders in Denver?

In Denver, electric scooter riders are subject to certain legal consequences if they fail to adhere to the rules of the road. For instance, if a rider is found to be at fault in an accident, they could be held liable for any injuries or damages caused. This could result in a personal injury lawsuit, where the rider may be required to pay compensation to the injured party.

In addition, riders who violate traffic laws, such as riding on the sidewalk or failing to yield to pedestrians, could face fines or other penalties. While electric scooters are classified as “toy vehicles” in Colorado, riders are still expected to follow basic traffic laws.

Who Is Liable in an Electric Scooter Accident?

Determining liability in an electric scooter accident can be complex. In Colorado, electric scooters are classified as “toy vehicles,” meaning they are not subject to the same regulations as motor vehicles. However, riders are still expected to follow basic traffic laws.

If the accident was caused by the rider’s negligence, such as riding on the sidewalk or not yielding to pedestrians, the rider could be held liable. If the accident was caused by a defect in the scooter, the scooter company could be held responsible. If the accident involved another vehicle, the driver of that vehicle could be held liable if they were at fault.

What Are the Legal Rights of Pedestrians Involved in Electric Scooter Accidents?

Pedestrians have certain legal rights when involved in an electric scooter accident. When a pedestrian is harmed because of a scooter rider’s negligence, they are entitled to pursue compensation for their injuries. This may cover medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

In order to pursue a personal injury claim, the pedestrian must be able to prove that the scooter rider was at fault for the accident. This could involve showing that the rider was violating traffic laws, such as riding on the sidewalk or failing to yield to pedestrians.

An experienced attorney can help pedestrians understand their rights and navigate the legal process. They can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for the pedestrian’s rights in court.

What Should I Do if the Electric Scooter Company Denies My Claim?

If the insurance company continues to deny your claim, your attorney can take the case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge or jury. Insurance companies often try to settle claims for less than they are worth, and once you accept a settlement, you cannot seek additional compensation later.

How Can an Attorney Help After an Electric Scooter Accident?

An experienced attorney can help determine liability in your accident. This is a crucial step, as it can significantly impact the amount of compensation you may be entitled to. An attorney can also help you understand the potential damages you may be able to recover, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Can an Attorney Help Determine Liability in an Electric Scooter Accident?

Establishing who is at fault in an electric scooter accident can be complicated. A skilled attorney can assist by examining the incident, collecting evidence, and interpreting Colorado law in relation to your situation.

For instance, if the accident was caused by a defect in the scooter, your attorney can help you file a product liability claim against the scooter manufacturer or rental company. If the accident was caused by another driver, your attorney can help you file a personal injury claim against that driver.

In some cases, more than one party may be liable for the accident. For example, if you were hit by a car while riding a defective scooter, both the driver and the scooter company could potentially be held liable. An attorney can help you understand these complexities and ensure that all potential sources of compensation are pursued.

If you have been involved in an electric scooter accident, call Genco Injury Attorneys today at 720-802-9120 for a free consultation.