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When a scooter accident happens, there may be more than one liable party. If you're injured in a scooter accident, it's essential to understand who may be held responsible so that you can get the compensation you deserve.
Who Can Be Held Responsible?
If you were involved in a scooter accident that resulted in injuries, you might be wondering who can be liable for the damages. The answer depends on the circumstances of the accident and who was at fault. In most cases, there will be two parties that can be liable. These parties are:
- Motorists who have struck scooter riders.
- Scooter riders who have struck pedestrians.
In specific scenarios, both parties involved in an accident may share fault. For example, if a scooter rider was not paying attention and rode into the middle of the street, and a passenger car driver was also not paying attention (and perhaps speeding) and struck the rider, both parties could share fault. In this case, liability would be split between the two parties.
Car Accidents Involving Scooters
Motorists have an increased responsibility compared to other parties like motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. This is because of the potential damage they can cause if they are involved in an accident. In most automobile versus scooter accidents, the motorist will likely be held liable for any damages that result from the accident. Common occurrences usually involve:
- A car making a left turn in front of an oncoming scooter.
- A car rear-ending a stopped scooter.
- A car sideswiping a scooter.
Pedestrian Accidents Involving Scooters
On the other hand, a scooter rider may be held liable for injuries they cause to pedestrians. This is most likely to occur if the scooter rider was riding carelessly or recklessly and caused the accident. For example:
- Riding in a no-scooter zone and hitting a pedestrian.
- Recklessly weaving in and out of foot traffic and striking a walker.
- Not obeying traffic laws and hitting a pedestrian in a crosswalk.
How Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. Can Help You Hold Negligent Parties Responsible
If you or a loved one have been involved in a scooter accident, the first step is to seek medical attention. Once you have been seen by a doctor and are aware of the extent of your injuries, you should then contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. At Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P., our team of legal experts has extensive experience handling scooter accident cases. We will work tirelessly to help you get the compensation that you deserve from the negligent party.
If you were involved in a scooter accident that resulted in injuries and are seeking compensation, call us today at (775) 227-2280 for a free initial consultation!