E-Bike and Scooter Accident Injuries: What to Do in California

E-bikes and rental electric scooters have become a normal part of getting around California cities, and so have the injuries that come with them. Road rash, wrist fractures, and head injuries from e-bike and scooter falls are increasingly common. Here is what to know if you were hurt riding one, or hit by someone who was.

Common E-Bike and Scooter Injuries

• Road rash and deep abrasions from sliding on pavement
• Wrist, elbow, and collarbone fractures from bracing a fall
• Head injuries and concussions, especially when no helmet was worn
• Knee and ankle injuries from getting a foot caught in the frame or wheel

Who Might Be Responsible?

Responsibility after an e-bike or scooter accident depends on many factors: whether the device malfunctioned, whether a driver or another rider caused the crash, road conditions, and the terms of any rental agreement you accepted through an app. This is a legal question that depends on the specifics of your situation. We recommend consulting a licensed attorney to evaluate your options.

What About the Rental App's Waiver?

Most e-bike and scooter rental apps (Lime, Bird, Spin, and similar services) require you to accept a liability waiver before you can ride. Whether that waiver limits your options after an injury is a legal question that depends on the exact terms you agreed to and the circumstances of your accident. Only a licensed attorney can properly evaluate a specific waiver. Do not assume a waiver means you have no options at all.

If You Were a Pedestrian Hit by a Rider

Pedestrians and other riders are sometimes injured by e-bike or scooter riders on sidewalks or in crosswalks. If this happened to you, try to get the rider's information and, if it was a rental, note the device's ID number or QR code, which can help identify the account associated with the ride later.

Documenting Your E-Bike or Scooter Accident

• Photos of the device, the accident location, and your injuries
• A screenshot of the rental app trip receipt or ride history, if applicable
• The device ID number or QR code from the scooter or e-bike itself
• Contact information for any witnesses
• All medical records and bills related to your treatment

Getting Medical Care Without Insurance

Many e-bike and scooter riders are young, uninsured, or between jobs. You do not need insurance to get treated. NoLawyerHelp connects riders and pedestrians hurt in these accidents with doctors who accept medical liens, Emergency Medi-Cal enrollment help, and community health clinics that treat regardless of insurance status.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For questions about liability, waivers, or compensation, please consult a licensed attorney.