In recent years, electric scooters (e-scooters) have surged in popularity across Tampa as a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around. Whether you're commuting through downtown or enjoying a ride along Bayshore Boulevard, these two-wheeled devices offer quick, app-based access to transportation. But with their rise has come a sharp increase in serious injuries.
At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand how Tampa e-scooter accidents can leave riders with lasting physical and financial damage. If you’ve been hurt in an e-scooter crash, understanding your e-scooter injury rights is critical.
Why E-Scooter Accidents in Tampa Are on the Rise
Tampa’s warm climate and growing infrastructure for micromobility make it an ideal city for e-scooter usage. Unfortunately, this rapid growth has outpaced safety regulations. Many riders are unfamiliar with traffic rules or assume they have the same protections as pedestrians or cyclists. Combine that with distracted drivers, poor road maintenance, and the occasional mechanical failure, and the risk of a crash increases significantly.
Tampa’s urban core, particularly areas like Ybor City, Channelside, and Hyde Park, has seen a noticeable spike in e-scooter-related incidents. These hotspots are dense with traffic, pedestrians, and nightlife activity, which are all factors that contribute to accidents. In some cases, scooter riders are struck by vehicles; in others, crashes occur due to sudden stops, potholes, or other hazards.
Common Injuries from E-Scooter Crashes
Unlike cars, e-scooters offer no physical protection to riders. That means even a low-speed crash can result in serious injuries. Riders often have unexpected injuries after a minor accident.
Common e-scooter accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (especially since riders often don’t wear helmets)
- Broken bones, particularly in the arms, wrists, and collarbone
- Road rash and lacerations requiring stitches or skin grafts
- Spinal cord injuries and nerve damage
- Dental injuries and facial trauma
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and time away from work, both of which can be financially and emotionally draining. If you’ve suffered any of these injuries in a Tampa e-scooter accident, it’s important to explore your legal options with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Who Is Liable for E-Scooter Injuries in Florida?
One of the biggest questions injured riders ask is, “Who’s responsible for paying my medical bills?” The answer depends on the details of the accident.
If a negligent driver hit you while you were riding an e-scooter, you may be able to pursue compensation through their auto insurance policy. Florida’s no-fault insurance law requires all registered drivers to carry a minimum of $10,000.00 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage and a minimum of $10,000.00 in Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance coverage. PIP coverage covers the driver, any members of their household, any passengers, and any pedestrians, bicyclists, or e-scooter riders they may hit. If the driver was at fault for your e-scooter accident, you may be able to claim their PIP coverage.
In other cases, the e-scooter company itself may be liable. If the accident was caused by a mechanical failure, such as faulty brakes or a locked front wheel, the e-scooter manufacturer or rental provider could be held responsible.
Additionally, if poor road conditions contributed to the crash, the city might share liability. Proving fault in these cases can be complex, which is why it’s critical to work with an experienced Tampa personal injury attorney who understands e-scooter injury rights.
Steps to Take After an E-Scooter Accident
The moments after an e-scooter crash can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps early on can help protect your health and your legal case:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, symptoms may take days or weeks to show up or worsen over time.
- Report the incident. Call 911 and ensure the police create an accident report. This will serve as a vital piece of evidence.
- Document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, the e-scooter, and any vehicles involved.
- Gather witness information. If anyone saw the accident, get their name and contact information.
- Preserve the scooter, if possible. Don’t return or move it before an investigation, especially if a malfunction was involved.
- Avoid making statements to insurance companies without legal advice. What you say can be used against you later.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney. At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we’ll evaluate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Tampa e-scooter accidents are more than just minor mishaps; they can be life-changing events. If you’ve been injured while riding, don’t try to navigate the legal system alone. Let Hancock Injury Attorneys help you understand your e-scooter injury rights and guide you every step of the way. Schedule a free consultation today and take the first step toward recovery and justice.