Electric Scooter Malfunctions

At McGee, Lerer & Associates, we understand the dangers and injuries that can arise when electric scooters malfunction. Serving Long Beach, California, we are dedicated to helping victims of defective scooter accidents seek the compensation they deserve. From brake failures to collapsing handlebars, these malfunctions can result in devastating injuries. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Contact McGee, Lerer & Associates at (562) 270-0546 today for a free consultation if you’ve been injured by a defective electric scooter.

Common Electric Scooter Malfunctions

Electric scooters from companies like Bird, Lime, Jump, and Lyft rely on their components to function properly. Unfortunately, malfunctions can and do occur, often putting riders at significant risk. Below are some of the most common electric scooter malfunctions that may lead to serious injuries:

• Brake Failures – Defective brakes may fail to respond, preventing riders from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
• Handlebar Problems – Loose, detached, or collapsing handlebars make steering difficult and unsafe.
• Stuck Throttle – A malfunctioning throttle can cause a scooter to accelerate uncontrollably, leading to crashes.
• Unexpected Speed Changes – Scooters that speed up when braking or stop suddenly without warning are dangerous.
• Structural Failures – Baseboards cracking or breaking mid-ride can throw riders off balance.
• Wheel Lock-Ups – Malfunctions that cause the wheels to suddenly lock up can result in falls.
• Electrical or Battery Problems – Some scooters may shut down mid-ride or pose fire hazards due to defective batteries.

These malfunctions can result in devastating injuries for riders—including broken bones, head trauma, and road rash. Lime’s history of recalls, such as those prompted by baseboard issues and fire-prone batteries, demonstrates how common these risks are. If you’ve been injured, contacting an electric scooter accident lawyer can make all the difference in holding the responsible parties accountable.

Determining Liability in Scooter Malfunction Cases

When an electric scooter malfunction causes an accident, determining liability can be complex. At McGee, Lerer & Associates, our legal team takes a thorough approach to identify all the responsible parties to maximize your compensation. Such responsible parties may include:

• Scooter Manufacturers: Manufacturers have a legal obligation to design and produce safe products. If a manufacturing or design flaw caused your scooter to malfunction—such as brake failure or poor structural assembly—you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
• Scooter Rental Companies: Rental companies like Bird or Lime must ensure their scooters are maintained and safe for users. Negligent maintenance practices, such as failing to detect worn brakes or cracked baseboards, may hold rental companies liable for accidents.
• Government Entities: Poorly maintained roads, broken sidewalks, or improper traffic management by government entities may also be contributing factors in your accident. Filing a claim against government entities requires specific legal procedures and strict deadlines.
• Third Parties: Other parties may share responsibility. For example, a negligent driver, a cyclist, or even another pedestrian could have contributed to the accident. California’s comparative negligence laws allow victims to recover compensation even if they share part of the blame.

Determining liability often involves accident reconstruction, examination of maintenance logs, and expert analyses. A skilled Long Beach scooter attorney will help ensure all angles are investigated, leaving no stone unturned.

California’s Electric Scooter Regulations

California enforces specific laws governing the use of electric scooters to ensure public safety. When an accident involves a malfunctioning scooter, compliance with these regulations—or lack thereof—can affect liability and claims. Key California scooter regulations include:

• Helmet Usage – Riders under 18 are legally required to wear a helmet. Although not mandatory for adults, helmets significantly reduce the severity of head injuries.
• License Requirement – Riders must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit to operate an electric scooter.
• Maximum Speed – Scooters are limited to a maximum speed of 15 mph.
• Sidewalk Restrictions – Riding on sidewalks is prohibited, except for parking purposes.
• Road Restrictions – Scooters are allowed on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less unless a bike lane is provided.

Violating these laws might impact your ability to claim damages for an accident. If you’re unsure how regulations might affect your case, consulting an electric scooter accident lawyer will ensure your rights are protected.

How McGee, Lerer & Associates Can Help

At McGee, Lerer & Associates, our Long Beach scooter attorneys have a deep understanding of the legal complexities surrounding electric scooter accidents. We are committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation. Here's how we can make a difference in your case:

• Thorough Investigation: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult experts to build a strong case.
• Liability Analysis: Identifying all responsible parties to maximize your compensation.
• Negotiation: We handle negotiations with insurance companies and scooter companies to achieve favorable settlements.
• Litigation: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court.

We understand the tactics that scooter companies and their insurers use to reduce liability and payouts. Our legal team is well-equipped to counter these strategies and fight for your rights.

Contact McGee, Lerer & Associates for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured due to an electric scooter malfunction in Long Beach, don’t wait to seek justice. Time is critical for gathering evidence and building a strong case. At McGee, Lerer & Associates, our experienced Long Beach scooter attorneys are ready to fight for your rights.  We’ll handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery.

Call us now at (562) 270-0546 or complete our online form for experienced Long Beach scooter attorneys ready to fight for your rights and maximize your compensation!