The Scooter Phenomenon and Its Impact on Indianapolis Roads

Electric scooters, introduced to the city just a few years ago, have transformed the way people move around Indianapolis. However, this transformation has not come without cost. Since their introduction, many people have been taken to the hospital for injuries on scooters.

In several accident cases involving scooters, car and truck drivers may defend by saying the scooter was outside their view, making it difficult to find responsible parties and prove negligence.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Scooter accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Negligence of other drivers: Many scooter accidents occur due to the negligence of other drivers on the road. This can include drivers who are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or drivers who fail to yield the right of way to scooter riders.
  • Speeding: When motor drivers are speeding, they have less time to react to obstacles on the road, including scooter riders. Similarly, scooter riders who are speeding may not have enough time to react to hazards in their path.
  • Driver Fatigue: Driver fatigue is another issue that can lead to serious accidents. Tired drivers may not be as alert or responsive as they need to be, which can lead to collisions with scooter riders.

According to the responsible parties involved in the accident, we can help you claim what you deserve, analyzing your options carefully to secure the best possible outcome.

Legal Responsibilities of Scooter Riders and Motorists in Indianapolis

After an accident, it’s common to wonder, “Am I at fault?” Both scooter riders and motorists have legal responsibilities to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.

For scooter riders, according to Indiana Code § 9-21-11-13.6, a person operating an electric foot scooter has all the rights and duties under this chapter that apply to a person riding a bicycle, with a few exceptions. The law also specifies the required equipment for scooters, including a lamp on the front and rear and a brake that can make the wheels skid on dry, level, clean pavement. Moreover, electric foot scooters may not be operated on an interstate highway.

If any of these rules are broken, then the scooter driver may have some percentage of responsibility in the accident, and the entitled compensation will be reduced.

Common Injuries in Scooter Accidents

These accidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering and catastrophic injuries that affect the life of scooter drivers or other victims who are highly exposed to terrible consequences, including:

  • Head injuries: These can range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries.
  • Broken bones: Falls from scooters or collisions with cars or pedestrians can lead to broken bones, particularly in the arms, wrists, and legs.
  • Sprains and strains
  • Facial injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries

We know how difficult it is to recover from these injuries, especially if you have to deal with long treatments and expensive medical bills. In this situation, claiming fair compensation is the first step toward recovery from economic and non-economic losses. We are here to help you analyze your case, evaluate the damages, and anticipate future losses to claim what you deserve.

Types of Compensation You Can Claim in Indiana

If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation to cover all your losses. This can cover a range of costs, including:

  • Medical bills: This includes immediate medical care, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation costs.
  • Lost wages: If your injury has caused you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn, you can claim lost wages.
  • Pain and suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.

But to get the fair amount of compensation you need to get your life back, we first need to evaluate the evidence, define your responsibility in the accident, and understand the causes of the collision. This process can be challenging for victims, especially if the insurance companies involved are not willing to cover the costs.

That’s why having a team of personal injury lawyers on your side can help you get what you are entitled to, and fight for your rights against insurance companies.

How Our Indianapolis Scooter Injury Lawyers Can Help

When you choose us, you’re not just getting a team of experienced lawyers – you’re getting a dedicated team that’s committed to fighting for your rights. Here’s how we have helped victims of accidents for decades:

  1. Case evaluation: We start by evaluating your case, understanding the circumstances of the accident, and advising you on the best course of action.
  2. Investigation: Our team will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and establishing the sequence of events that led to the accident.
  3. Claim preparation: We will prepare and file your personal injury claim, ensuring all paperwork is completed accurately and on time.
  4.  Negotiation: We will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf, aiming to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
  5. Trial representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced trial lawyers are ready to represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to the jury.

In the event of a scooter accident, determining who was at fault can be complex. Our lawyers can help investigate the circumstances of the accident and guide you through the legal process of filing a personal claim according to the injuries you suffered. 

Contact us today to request a free consultation with a scooter injury attorney in Indianapolis.