Scooter Accident Attorney in Kansas City

Filing Personal Injury Claims for E-Scooter Accidents in Kansas City

Motorized scooters have become increasingly popular in Kansas City neighborhoods – and much more accessible. These days, you can find them throughout Brookside, on the Country Club Plaza, in Westport, and across the city. Unfortunately, the number of accidents involving e-scooters have increased as more people use them. If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter collision knowing your legal rights and options is important before seeking compensation for your injuries.

Electric Scooter Injuries Are on The Rise

E-scooters have revolutionized urban transportation, providing a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of travel. However, electric scooters are sometimes the preferred method of travel for people who are intoxicated. It’s just another exercise of bad judgment to believe that taking an e-scooter is somehow more responsible when you’ve had too much to drink. E-scooters are just as dangerous as a car, and sometimes more dangerous because they can be operated in areas reserved only for pedestrians, like sidewalks.  They are heavy and powered, reaching speeds up to twenty-five miles an hour.  When used recklessly they can cause serious injury and death.

The increasing presence of motorized scooters on Kansas City streets has led to a significant rise in injury accidents. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of emergency department visits related to e-scooter accidents doubled between 2017 and 2018, and have been on the rise ever since.

E-scooter accidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor to severe, depending on various factors, such as the vehicle’s speed, the driver’s age, and the nature of the accident. Fractured bones, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, internal bleeding, and spinal cord injuries are among the potential consequences of these accidents. In some cases, severe injuries may also lead to long-term disabilities – injuries that highlight the vulnerability of both riders and pedestrians.

The dangers these vehicles cause to public safety are not unique to Kansas City. The use of powered scooters has seen a global surge in recent years, leading to a corresponding increase in injuries among powered scooter riders and pedestrians. In a study conducted in Israel, for example, it was found that the annual number of emergency department visits for electric scooter-related injuries has increased steadily since 2014 – and notably, these injury accidents were responsible for more than 10% of hospital admissions for dental and maxillofacial injuries. The study also revealed that older riders were more likely to be hospitalized than younger riders, highlighting the need for age-specific safety measures. These findings emphasize the importance of understanding personal injury accident claims in the context of e-scooter accidents.

Understanding Personal Injury Claims for E-Scooter Accidents

Personal injury accident claims involve filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party’s insurance company. But to hold the responsible party liable for injuries and damages, you must be able to prove negligence, and time is of the essence, as there is a statute of limitations within which the claim must be filed. Obtaining legal representation early in the process is advisable, as it provides enough time to thoroughly review the facts of the case, acquire all the necessary documentation (like police reports and medical bills), and negotiate with insurance companies before pursuing a lawsuit if necessary.

Suppose you were involved in an e-scooter accident caused by another driver who ran a red light. In that case, you could file a personal injury accident claim against the other driver’s insurance company to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Proving negligence in this case would involve demonstrating that the driver failed to obey traffic laws, resulting in the accident and the rider’s injuries – pretty straightforward. But what if you believe a defect in the scooter caused your accident? It would be much more challenging to prove your case without the help of an attorney already familiar with these types of claims.

It’s important to note that drivers are not the only ones at risk of an electric scooter injury. Pedestrians also need to be careful in crosswalks and sidewalks. If you’ve been struck by an electric scooter, please contact Plaza Injury Law as soon as possible.

Before you file a personal injury claim after an scooter accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney for advice. Only a local attorney familiar with these types of claims can offer the best guidance on how to pursue appropriate legal action. Collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and, most importantly, proving liability in an e-scooter accident is not something you should tackle on your own. Successfully recovering compensation for your injuries requires an experienced attorney like Donovan Dodrill of Plaza Injury Law. He will be able to guide you through the claims process and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system so that you can remain focused on healing from your injuries.

Immediate Steps to Take After an E-Scooter Injury Accident

After an injury accident, it’s important to take a few immediate steps to protect your rights and strengthen your claim for damages. First and foremost, contact the police immediately. Making a police report will protect you by creating a record of the incident. The police will also call an ambulance to allow qualified emergency medical technicians to evaluate you at the scene, providing triage and, if necessary, transportation to a local hospital. Collecting the name and auto insurance information from the e-scooter rider who hit you as well as documenting the accident scene by taking a few photos if you’re able and gathering contact information from witnesses can provide valuable evidence to support the claim. Seeking medical attention will help establish a clear link between the accident and the injuries sustained. Once you’re safe and have received proper medical treatment, contact Plaza Injury Law. Attorney Dodrill will take it from there!

Who is at Fault in an Electric Scooter Accident?

Many factors can lead to an accident, and the cause may not be as obvious as it seems. If, for example, you hit a pothole at high speed and suffered broken ribs when you fell off your Bird scooter the City of Kansas City, Missouri should accept liability for your injuries.  The notice required before bringing a claim against the City of Kansas City, Missouri is very short, so you must act quickly [Revised Missouri Statute 82.210, Section 30.3 Notice of Injury and Damages from Defect of the Charter Administrative Code and Code of General Ordinances of Kansas City, Missouri]!

If you are riding an e-scooter and simply weren’t following the E-scooter safety instructions, you may not have a claim at all.  All electric scooter companies warn operators not to drive them in areas reserved for pedestrians, such as sidewalks. If you’ve been hurt by a negligent scooter driver who caused an accident, it may be possible to sue the driver for compensation.

If, on the other hand, you were badly hurt in an electric scooter accident due to a defect in the device, the manufacturer may be held liable for your injuries.

Attorney Dodrill will review the details of your case and determine the appropriate parties to hold accountable. He specializes in all types of personal injury cases, including those related to electric scooter and e-bike accidents. Contact Plaza Injury Law today for a free case review.

What are the Most Common Causes of Motorized Scooter Accidents?

Electric scooter accidents can result from driver negligence, product defects, inadequate maintenance of city streets, and more. These accidents can result in various injuries, including road rash, broken bones, traumatic brain injury, or worse.

For instance, if a driver fails to yield to an e-scooter rider and collides with them, the rider may suffer from broken bones, head trauma, or other severe injuries. On the other hand, if an e-scooter malfunctions due to a defective battery or brake system, the rider may be at risk of an accident caused by the scooter itself.

Plaza Injury Law specializes in assessing injuries and calculating potential compensation for victims. We have the expertise to evaluate the extent of your injuries and advocate for your rights. By thoroughly investigating the accident and gathering relevant evidence, we can build a solid case to support your compensation claim.

Seeking Compensation With Help From an Electric Rental Scooter Accident Lawyer

In personal injury claims for e-scooter accidents, you can seek various types of compensation, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and property damage.

If you were injured in an e-scooter accident that required medical treatment, you can seek compensation to cover your medical expenses. This may include ambulance fees, hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical care that may be necessary. Additionally, if the accident caused you to miss work and lose wages, you can seek compensation for your lost income.

Plaza Injury Law is committed to helping Kansas City clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve for their injuries. We will work tirelessly to ensure you are properly compensated for your losses. By negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to court, Attorney Dodrill will fight for your rights and strive to achieve a fair settlement.

It’s important to note that Plaza Injury Law operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay legal fees upon a successful settlement or verdict. This arrangement allows individuals who may not have the financial means to hire a lawyer upfront to still have access to legal representation. It also aligns the interests of the attorney and the client, as the attorney’s fee is contingent on the outcome of the case.

Statute of Limitations and Pure Comparative Negligence for Rental Scooter Claims

The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in e-scooter accident cases varies by jurisdiction. It’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand the state-specific laws of your jurisdiction.

For example, in some states, the statute of limitations may be two years from the accident date, while in others, it may be three, or five years. Notice requirements may be even shorter and are specific to each jurisdiction. Failing to bring a claim or file a lawsuit within the specified time frame can cost you the right to seek compensation.

Additionally, some cities and states follow the principle of comparative negligence, which can affect the compensation you receive. Under pure comparative negligence, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if it is determined that you were 20% at fault for the accident because you were not wearing a helmet, your compensation may be reduced by 20%. Understanding the laws regarding comparative negligence in your jurisdiction is crucial, as it can impact the compensation you are entitled to.

Seeking Legal Assistance from Plaza Injury Law, a Top Kansas City Personal Injury Law Firm

While many local attorneys may have a deep understanding of the relevant laws and statutes, not all of them are familiar with the processes specific to electric scooter accidents.

Attorney Dodrill is well-versed in the specific regulations and requirements for these types of personal injury claims. He will ensure that all the necessary paperwork is filed correctly and within the specified deadlines. And notably, his experience and knowledge of previous cases and legal precedents will be helpful to further strengthen your case.

Hiring a Kanas City scooter accident lawyer will allow you to focus on your medical treatments and recovery. Dealing with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and negotiating a fair settlement can be overwhelming and time-consuming. But by entrusting your case to a skilled attorney, you can alleviate the stress and burden of the legal process, allowing you to prioritize your physical and emotional well-being.

Plaza Injury Law is dedicated to providing the best possible legal representation for our Kansas City area clients. Attorney Dodrill always prioritizes his client’s needs and will work diligently to facilitate a quick recovery on your behalf. If you or a loved one has been injured in an e-scooter accident, Plaza Injury Law is here to provide legal assistance. By handling all aspects of your case, including communication with insurance companies and opposing parties, you can focus on your recovery while he fights for your rights. Contact us today to get started!