Miami Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer  | Florida E-Scooter Injury Attorney

Have you or a loved one suffered injuries in an electric scooter accident in Miami? You deserve justice and compensation for your pain, suffering, and losses. At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm, we understand the impact these accidents can have on your life. That’s why we’re here to fight for your rights and hold responsible parties accountable.

Contact our Miami electric scooter accident attorneys at 305-638-4143 for a free consultation in English or Spanish. 

The Rise of Electric Scooters in Miami

Miami, known for its warm climate, and bustling streets, provided an ideal environment for electric scooters to thrive. As the city grappled with issues of traffic congestion and limited parking, residents and visitors sought alternative ways to navigate its landscape. E-scooters offered a solution that was both efficient and environmentally friendly, allowing riders to zip through congested streets and narrow alleyways with ease.

The rise of micro-mobility platforms, such as Lime and Bird, played a significant role in popularizing electric scooters in Miami. These companies introduced dockless scooter-sharing systems, allowing users to locate, unlock, and rent scooters using a smartphone app. With just a few taps, riders could unlock a scooter and embark on their journey, paying by the minute for the duration of their ride.

The City of Miami revoked the permits of most electric scooter operators after a trial run, including Bird, Bolt, Lime, Lyft and Wheels. According to the city, permits were revoked for the companies’ failures to address safety requirements, such as “failure to require users to wear a helmet, underage riders and multiple riders on a single scooter.” Despite this ban, many Miami residents began purchasing their own electric scooters as a mode of transportation. 

E-Scooter & E-Bike Accident Statistics

The Consumer Safety Product Commission reported 233 deaths in the US associated with micro-mobility devices from 2017 through 2022, although reporting is ongoing and incomplete. There were an estimated 360,800 emergency department visits related to all micro-mobility devices from 2017 through 2022. Children 14 years and younger accounted for about 36% of micromobility injuries within that time period.

• In March 2024 alone, two separate  scooter accidents left South Florida students dead while commuting.
• In March 2024, a St. Petersburg woman died after she was struck by a Freightliner truck while riding an electric sit-down scooter.
• In February 2024, a 66-year-old bicyclist died after colliding with a 12-year-old boy riding an electric bicycle in Key Biscayne.
• In January 2024, a 15-year-old student riding an electric scooter was struck and killed in Polk County.
• In January 2024, a 34-year-old Pensacola man was fatally struck by a sedan while riding an electric scooter.
• In October 2023, an Orlando man was killed while riding his electric scooter in Orange County.
• In October 2023, a 22-year-old Melbourne man died from injuries he suffered when the electric scooter he was riding was struck by a flatbed tractor-trailer.
• In September 2023, an 81-year-old woman died from injuries she suffered when an electric scooter ran into her on a sidewalk in downtown St. Petersburg.

Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents in South Florida

From malfunctioning scooters to unclear regulations, several factors contribute to the growing number of electric scooter accidents in Miami, including:

• Lack of Municipal Preparedness: One of the primary reasons for the surge in electric scooter accidents in Miami is the lack of proper infrastructure and regulations. Municipalities were not given sufficient time to prepare roads and sidewalks for this new mode of transportation. As a result, scooter riders often find themselves navigating through crowded streets and uneven sidewalks, increasing the risk of collisions and falls.
• Unclear Rules for Sidewalk Riding: Another contributing factor to electric scooter accidents in Miami is the ambiguous rules regarding sidewalk riding. With no clear guidelines on how scooters should interact with pedestrians, operators often resort to riding on sidewalks, putting pedestrians at risk of accidents and injuries. This lack of clarity exacerbates conflicts between scooter riders and pedestrians, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
• Inexperienced Operators: Electric scooters are a unique form of transportation, distinct from cars, bicycles, or motorcycles. Many people, including children, are operating them for the first time on Miami streets and sidewalks without any formal training. This lack of experience and understanding of traffic laws increases the likelihood of accidents, as riders may not be fully aware of how to navigate safely in urban environments.
• Lack of Inspections: Furthermore, the lack of thorough inspections exacerbates the risk of accidents caused by malfunctioning scooters. Many electric scooters suffer from issues such as malfunctioning software, collapsing handlebars, motor problems, and abrupt stops. Without proper inspections and maintenance protocols in place, these defects can go unnoticed until they result in accidents and injuries.
• Vehicle Operator Negligence:  Just like in any other car or truck accident case a vehicle operator’s negligence may cause or contribute to the injury of a scooter operator.

Common Injuries in Electric Scooter Accidents

From minor scrapes to severe trauma, electric scooter accidents in South Florida can result in a wide range of injuries, including:

• Head Injuries: One of the most serious and potentially life-threatening injuries in electric scooter accidents is head trauma. Without proper head protection, riders are at risk of sustaining concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), skull fractures, and other head injuries. Even at low speeds, a fall from an electric scooter can cause significant damage to the head, leading to long-term disabilities or even death.
• Fractures and Sprains: Another common type of injury in electric scooter accidents is fractures and sprains. When riders fall off their scooters or collide with other vehicles or obstacles, they may suffer fractures to their arms, wrists, legs, or ankles. Additionally, the sudden impact of a fall can result in sprains or strains to the muscles and ligaments, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
• Road Rash: Road rash refers to abrasions and lacerations caused by the friction between the skin and the road surface during a fall or slide. In electric scooter accidents, riders often suffer from road rash on exposed areas of the body, such as the hands, arms, knees, and face. While road rash may seem minor, it can lead to infections, scarring, and permanent disfigurement if not properly treated.
• Facial Injuries: Facial injuries are also common in electric scooter accidents, especially when riders fail to wear helmets or protective gear. In a collision or fall, riders may sustain cuts, bruises, or fractures to the face, including the nose, jaw, cheeks, and eyes. These injuries can have long-lasting consequences, affecting both physical appearance and functionality.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Electric scooter accidents can result in spinal cord injuries, which can have devastating and life-altering consequences. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis, loss of sensation, and impaired mobility. These injuries may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care to manage.
• Internal Injuries: The force of impact in an electric scooter accident can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, and abdominal trauma. These injuries may not be immediately apparent and can worsen over time if not promptly diagnosed and treated by medical professionals.
• Wrongful Death: Tragically, some electric scooter accidents result in fatalities, leaving families devastated by the sudden loss of a loved one. Wrongful death claims may arise when the negligence or recklessness of another party leads to someone’s death. Surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and the emotional pain and suffering caused by the loss of their loved one.

Why Choose Flanagan & Bodenheimer As Your Electric Scooter Injury Lawyers

• Proven Track Record: Our personal injury attorneys have years of experience representing clients in accident cases, including those involving electric scooters. We have secured millions of dollars for victims in personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida. 
• Small Caseload: Our law firm purposely maintains a small caseload in order to provide personalized attention to every client. You will have direct access to your attorney when necessary. Your case is not just another number to us, and we will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. 
• Exclusive Focus on Personal Injury: Our law firm exclusively focuses on personal injury and wrongful death claims, unlike other firms who spread themselves thin amongst several practice areas. 

What Our Accident Attorneys Can Do For You

• Investigate Your Case: Our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your electric scooter accident to determine liability and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Handle Insurance Claims: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We will handle all communication and negotiations with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
• Litigate if Necessary: While we strive to reach a favorable settlement out of court, we are prepared to take your case to trial if needed. Our attorneys are skilled litigators who will vigorously advocate for your rights in the courtroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after an electric scooter accident in Miami?

• Seek medical attention for any injuries.
• Document the accident scene, including taking photos and exchanging information with involved parties.
• Report the accident to local law enforcement and obtain a copy of the police report.
• Contact our experienced electric scooter accident lawyers for legal guidance.

Who can be held liable for an electric scooter accident in Miami?

Liability for an electric scooter accident in Miami may fall on various parties, including motorists, scooter rental companies, municipalities, or even manufacturers if a defect contributed to the accident.

What types of compensation can I pursue after an electric scooter accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses incurred as a result of the accident.

How long do I have to file a claim for an electric scooter accident in Miami?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those related to electric scooter accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame. Contact our lawyers at 305-638-4143 for a free consultation, even if you believe the statute of limitations on your case may have passed.

Can I still pursue compensation if I was partially at fault for the electric scooter accident?

Yes, Florida follows a comparative negligence system, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced proportionally to your degree of fault.

How much does it cost to hire an electric scooter accident lawyer in Miami?

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we offer free consultations, and we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t owe us any fees unless we secure compensation for you through a settlement or verdict.

Will I have to go to court if I hire Flanagan & Bodenheimer for my electric scooter accident case?

While many cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court if necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve. We will always strive to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. 

Free Consultation With a Florida Electric Scooter Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in an electric scooter accident in Miami, it’s essential to seek legal guidance from experienced personal injury attorneys. With a proven track record of success in representing accident victims, Flanagan & Bodenheimer can help you understand your rights and options for seeking compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our firm has recovered millions of dollars in compensation in personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida. Contact us at 305-638-4143 for a free consultation in English or Spanish.