Electric Scooter Accidents in Miami: Legal Options for Riders and Drivers After a Crash

Electric scooters are now a common sight across Miami. From Brickell to Wynwood, locals and tourists alike use these app-based rentals to get around the city quickly and affordably. But with increased usage comes increased risk. Accidents between scooters and vehicles are becoming more frequent—and often more complex.

Whether you're a scooter rider injured by a negligent driver, or a driver involved in a crash caused by an e-scooter, knowing your rights and legal responsibilities is essential. A Miami car accident lawyer can represent either party and help them pursue or defend against claims based on the facts of the case.

Common Scenarios in Scooter-Vehicle Collisions

In most scooter-vehicle accidents, one of the following occurs:

• A car turns or merges without seeing a scooter in its blind spot.
• A scooter rider weaves through traffic, violating traffic laws.
• A dooring incident happens—where a parked driver opens a door into a moving scooter.
• A scooter crosses an intersection unsafely or against the signal.
• Distracted driving or riding leads to an unavoidable crash.

Each situation raises unique questions of liability depending on who violated traffic laws or acted recklessly.

If You’re the Scooter Rider: What You Should Know

Electric scooters offer zero protection in an impact. As a result, riders often suffer more severe injuries than drivers. If you were hit by a car while riding a scooter in Miami:

What You Should Do:

1. Seek medical attention immediately. Many injuries (especially brain trauma and internal bleeding) may not appear right away.
2. Call the police. Request a report, even if the driver is cooperative.
3. Take photos of the scene. Capture the scooter, any visible injuries, traffic signs, and the vehicle involved.
4. Avoid admitting fault. Anything you say could be used to reduce your claim.
5. Contact a Miami accident lawyer. Let them handle communication with insurers and scooter companies.

What to Look for in a Lawyer:

• A Miami accident lawyer who understands shared liability laws and how they apply to micromobility.
• Someone who can investigate whether the scooter was defective or poorly maintained.
• A lawyer who regularly handles claims involving rental scooter companies like Bird, Lime, or Bolt, and is familiar with their insurance policies and settlement practices.

You may be eligible to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care.

If You’re the Driver: Your Legal Concerns Matter Too

Not all scooter riders follow traffic laws. If you're a driver who was involved in a crash with a scooter in Miami, you may face:

• Property damage to your vehicle
• Injury claims against your insurance
• Accusations of distracted or reckless driving

Drivers have rights too—especially if the scooter rider was darting through traffic, riding in the wrong lane, or ignoring traffic signals.

What You Should Do:

1. Stay at the scene and call the police. Never leave after a crash—even if it seems minor.
2. Document the incident. Take pictures of road conditions, damages, and the scooter.
3. Get witness information. Their statements may support your account of the incident.
4. Notify your insurer. But don’t give a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer.
5. Consult a Miami car accident lawyer. Even if you believe you're not at fault.

What to Look for in a Lawyer:

• A Miami accident attorney who can defend against injury claims or reduce your liability exposure.
• Someone who will review traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness accounts.
• A lawyer experienced in comparative fault cases, where both parties may share blame.

If the scooter rider was found to be at fault, your lawyer may help you avoid unjust financial consequences or counter-file for damages.

Who Can Be Liable?

In scooter-vehicle crashes, one or more of the following parties may be at fault:

• The scooter rider (if they disobeyed traffic laws)
• The vehicle driver (if distracted, speeding, or violating right-of-way)
• The scooter company (for mechanical failure or maintenance negligence)
• A government entity (for dangerous road conditions or poor signage)
• A third-party driver or cyclist who contributed to the crash

A skilled Miami personal injury attorney will examine every detail to determine liability—and build your strongest case.

Types of Compensation Riders and Drivers May SeekFor Scooter Riders:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Damaged personal property

For Drivers:

• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Medical bills if injured
• Lost income
• Defense against unjust liability claims
• Counterclaims for property or bodily harm

Why Time Is Critical in Miami Scooter Accidents

In Florida, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident. However, if a government agency is involved (such as the City of Miami for road maintenance issues), strict notice deadlines apply. Whether you're a rider or driver, speaking to an attorney quickly protects your legal options and improves your chance of a successful claim or defense.

A Miami Accident Lawyer for Scooter Riders and Drivers

Whether you're a scooter rider facing steep medical bills or a driver concerned about being blamed unfairly, legal support is essential. Miami’s roads are busy, and these cases are rarely black and white.

A Miami car accident lawyer can help you:

• Understand Florida’s comparative negligence laws
• Determine who is at fault—and why
• Gather evidence and handle insurers
• Maximize compensation or defend against a claim
• Navigate the legal process with confidence

Since 1963, Jerome Wolfson, Esq. and the team at Wolfson & Leon have proudly served accident victims across Florida:

• Miami
• Orlando
• Tampa
• Jacksonville
• Fort Lauderdale
• West Palm Beach
• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Sarasota
• Clearwater
• Tallahassee

Let us help you get back on the road to recovery. Call (305) 285-1115 today, and our team will handle your case with the personal care and attention you deserve.

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