Can you make an Injury Claim after an E-scooter Accident?

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Electric scooters, or e-scooters, have undoubtedly become a more common sight on our roads in recent years, providing a convenient and eco-friendly alternative mode of transport for thousands of road users.

However, despite their growing popularity, the law around e-scooters is still relatively new. If you have an accident which is a result of someone else’s negligence, you might be feeling unsure as to whether you’re eligible to make an e-scooter accident compensation claim.

Our Road Traffic Accident Solicitors can offer a free claims assessment where we’ll speak to you about what’s happened and let you know if we think you have a valid claim before going any further. Get in touch to arrange a free no obligation chat.

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Is it Legal to Ride an E-Scooter on the Road in the UK?

Changes to the law are expected later on this year under government plans to update the Transport Bill but currently e-scooters are not illegal in the UK and you can buy, sell and own one perfectly legally. However, it is illegal to use an e-scooter in public unless it is rented as part of a recognised trial scheme.

You can use a privately owned e-scooter on private land but when it comes to using these for public use they’re classed as powered transporters, which means e-scooters are covered by the same laws that govern the use of cars and other motor vehicles.

That means it is illegal to ride them on pavements, footpaths, cycle lanes and in pedestrianised zones.

What is the Claims Process for an E-Scooter Accident?

If you’ve been involved in an accident whilst riding an e-scooter, you will likely still be feeling shocked at what was happened and the thought of pursuing legal action can feel daunting if you’re unsure of what it will involve. We’ve broken down the process into six key steps:

    1

    Free Claims Assessment

    When you first call us, we’ll offer you a free claims assessment where we will review the circumstances around your accident and quickly let you know if we think of you have a strong claim.

    2

    Gathering Evidence

    If we’re able to take on your case, we’ll begin collating any evidence that could be beneficial for your claim. This could include dashcam footage, CCTV or witness statements.

    3

    Medical Expert Assessment

    We will arrange for you to be seen by an independent medical specialist who will create a report on any physical or psychological injuries you have sustained. This will be invaluable in helping us to build a picture of how much compensation you should receive.

    4

    Finding out who is Liable

    We’ll speak to the other party’s insurance company on your behalf and ask them to take responsibility for your accident. If the person responsible for your accident does not have insurance, we will seek to claim compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) instead.

    5

    Interim Payments

    If the other side accepts full or partial responsibility for your injuries, we will apply for an interim payment of compensation. This will help you to pay for any immediate costs, such as medical costs or household bills, whilst we work to settle your claim.

    6

    Going to Court

    In our experience, these types of accidents rarely go to Court, but if yours does, we will make sure you’re prepared and represent you in proceedings.

Is There a Time Limit on When I can Make a Claim?

Generally, the time limit on when you can make a claim after suffering an e-scooter, or any type of road traffic accident, is three years in England and Wales

If you were under 18 years old at the time of the accident, you’ll have three years from your eighteenth birthday to pursue legal action. 

This is why it’s so important to seek legal advice early to ensure you have the best chance of receiving the compensation and support you deserve.

How Could a Road Traffic Accident Solicitor Help me?

As the laws surrounding e-scooters are relatively new, you may be confused as to whether you have legal grounds to make a claim. To add to this, the rules surrounding the use of e-scooters can vary from city to city.

Our Road Traffic Accident Solicitors are experts and will help you navigate this complex and ever-changing area of law.

We’ll work hard to get you access to support, rehabilitation and compensation which will cover any medical treatment, cost to repair or replace your e-scooter and any loss in earnings you’ve suffered as a result of the accident.

We handle most of our claims on a No Win, No Fee basis, so you won’t need to worry about paying us anything unless your claim is successful. Get in touch with our expert Road Traffic Accident Solicitors to find out more.

Get in touch, today!

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