Why have I seen so many E-scooters recently?
You may have seen a recent abundance of electric scooters (commonly referred to as E-scooters) infiltrating public spaces nationwide. The reason for this mass influx of E-scooters is down to various trials taking place across the UK. E-scooters provide an eco-friendly travel alternative to cars and motorbikes with significantly reduced emissions. E-scooters, which are battery-powered, are lightweight, compact, and are conveniently located in the hub of the different UKcities. This makes them extremely popular with students and other young people who cannot afford to drive.
Can anyone ride an E-scooter?
Whilst E-scooters are incredibly accessible, not everybody can ride one. There are strict criteria for eligibility to use this new mode of transport:
- E-scooters can only be rented from an authorized organisation
- E-scooter riders must be 18 or over and hold a full/provisional UK driving licence
- E-scooters must be insured by the rental organisation
What other rules apply with E-scooters?
Well, only E-scooters that are rented as part of the government-sanctioned trials can be used on public roads. Riders are also prohibited from using E-scooters only on pavements and other pedestrianized areas. Additionally, it may seem obvious but riders cannot use E-scooters under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substances. Many young people across the country have been fined for abusing these rules; there have even been cases of riders receiving driving bans for drink-driving whilst using E-scooters.
Can I claim compensation for an E-Scooter injury?
Because E-scooters are a fairly recent addition to our roads, the legal positioning of E-scooters is somewhat ambiguous. That being said, claiming compensation for an E-scooter-related injury is essentially like claiming against any other vehicle. For example, if you are struck by an E-scooter, it is important to:
- Seek medical attention
If you are involved in an E-scooter accident, it’s recommended that you visit a doctor as soon as you can to be assessed for accident-related injury. Even if you don’t believe you’ve been seriously injured and do not need urgent care, it’s worthwhile to get checked out. The medical report could serve as part of your evidence.
- Report the incident
Reporting the E-scooter incident is essential if you wish to claim compensation. Usually, reporting an accident involves obtaining a police report (a written document that is usually generated at the scene of the accident). The police report will also include statements from witnesses and a sketch of the incident (location, path of vehicles, point of collision).
- Take photographs of the scene where it took place.
Photos provide the evidence you need for a successful claim. Taking photos of the scene helps to speed up your claim and your recovery of compensation. Don’t miss this crucial step!
- Take photos of your injuries
Take clear photos of any visible injuries you sustained in the accident. Try to take pictures that depict the type, severity, size, and location of your E-scooter-related injuries.
- Find the right personal injury lawyer!
Finding the right personal injury lawyer is paramount to your claim. Here at TDP Solicitors, our team of experienced personal injury solicitors will be there for you throughout the entire personal injury compensation process. Our No Win No Fee basis ensures that you will receive the maximum amount of financial personal injury compensation and medical support that you are entitled to.
Who is in charge of paying out E-scooter injury compensation?
So, what happens if you are involved in an E-scooter accident and the rider is uninsured or they flee at the scene of the incident? Well, technically E-scooters are classed as motorised vehicles and come under the same regulations as cars. As a result, The Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB) is liable to pay compensation out to those who are injured by uninsured riders. Because of the motorised vehicle status of E-scooters, the MIB are responsible for paying out compensation where the driver of the E-scooter wasn’t insured or able to trace.
How we can help
If you have been involved in an E-scooter-related incident and want to find out more information about our No Win No Fee compensation process, please call our team of professional personal injury solicitors today on +0151 242 5111.