E-Scooter and E-Bike Injury Accidents

E-Scooter and E-Bike Injury Accidents

In recent years, e-scooters and e-bikes have surged in popularity across New York’s urban landscape, offering convenient and eco-friendly transportation options. But as these vehicles fill the streets, so too have we seen an increase in accidents, often resulting in serious injuries. 

If you've been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, you may be facing unexpected medical bills, severe physical pain, and a long road to recovery. Figuring out how to secure the compensation you deserve may feel overwhelming, especially while coping with these burdens. 

At William Mattar Law Offices, our personal injury lawyers understand what makes e-scooter and e-bike accidents unique, and the complexities of these cases. If you’ve been injured in one of these crashes, don’t talk to the insurance company without legal representation. 

Reach out to our legal team for a free consultation and case evaluation. We’ll help you hold the right parties accountable and get the compensation you need for your recovery.

FREE CASE EVALUATION

New York Rules for E-bikes and E-scooters

In New York State, electric scooters (e-scooters) and bicycles with electric assist (e-bikes) are allowed on certain streets and highways. However, they come with specific rules and restrictions for safe and legal operation.

Definitions and Classes

E-scooters are limited to a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour on level surfaces when using electric power alone, but operators are prohibited from exceeding 15 miles per hour under state law. 

E-bikes, or bicycles with electric assist, must be no wider than 36 inches, have operable pedals, and an electric motor under 750 watts. They fall into three categories:

• Class 1: The motor assists only when the rider pedals and stops assisting once the bike reaches 20 miles per hour.
• Class 2: The motor can be used to propel the bike without pedaling but stops assisting once the bike reaches 20 miles per hour.
• Class 3: Limited to New York City, this class has an electric motor capable of propelling the bike without pedaling and stops assisting at 25 miles per hour. 

E-bikes are classified separately from motorcycles, mopeds, or ATVs, meaning they do not require registration or meet the same equipment standards.

Where E-scooters and E-bikes Can Operate

In New York, you can operate e-scooters and e-bikes on roads with posted speed limits of 30 miles per hour or less. Each municipality has the authority to set additional rules regarding the operation of these vehicles, including time, location, and manner of use. However, riders generally cannot operate e-scooters or e-bikes on sidewalks unless explicitly permitted by local law or ordinance.

Where E-scooter and E-bike Accidents Happen Most Frequently

Due to their popularity and convenience, e-scooters and e-bikes have become common in many New York cities and towns, especially in areas with high traffic and heavy pedestrian flow. E-scooter and e-bike accidents are not only prevalent in New York City’s busiest neighborhoods but are also a growing concern in other urban centers and commuter hubs throughout the state. 

Our firm serves clients across New York, and we understand the specific challenges e-scooter and e-bike riders face in these regions. Below, we explore some areas where e-scooter and e-bike accidents commonly occur in cities where our offices are located and in other parts of New York we serve.

New York City

In New York City, e-scooter and e-bike accidents frequently occur in areas with heavy vehicle, cyclist, and pedestrian traffic, such as:

• Downtown Manhattan
• Busy intersections around Central Park
• Bridges, including the Brooklyn and Williamsburg bridges
• Popular neighborhoods like Soho, East Village, and Times Square 

These locations are accident hotspots due to the high density of traffic and limited bike lanes, which increase risks for e-scooter and e-bike users.

Buffalo and Williamsville

Our office in Williamsville is just outside Buffalo, a city where e-scooter and e-bike usage has expanded, particularly downtown and near the waterfront. In Buffalo, New York, you can rent e-bikes mainly through the Reddy Bikeshare program, which provides a selection of pedal-assist electric bikes. Additionally, e-bike rentals are available from local providers such as Buffalo Bike Tours.

Syracuse

In Syracuse, New York, e-bikes and scooters are available for rental through the Veo Micromobility program. Veo’s fleet includes Astro stand-up e-scooters and Cosmo pedal-assist e-bikes. These vehicles are accessible for rent from spring through fall. 

E-scooter and e-bike riders frequently travel around the downtown area and popular neighborhood spots, which can lead to accidents in busy zones like:

• Armory Square, a hub for shopping and nightlife, where both vehicle and foot traffic is heavy.
• University Hill near Syracuse University, where college students often use e-scooters and e-bikes for short commutes, increasing the risk of accidents around campus.

Rochester

In Rochester, e-scooter and e-bike riders are commonly seen near busy commercial and recreational areas, which often become accident hotspots. Common accident areas in Rochester include:

• East Avenue and Park Avenue, areas popular with pedestrians, creating potential collision points.
• High Falls District, where the mix of tourist and local traffic can lead to accidents.
• Monroe Avenue, which is lined with restaurants and shops and is frequented by e-scooter and e-bike riders, increasing the potential for accidents with cars.

Albany

In Albany, New York, a variety of e-bike and e-scooter rental options make it easy to get around the city.The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) is running a pilot program called SCOOT, which allows users to rent electric scooters in Albany and other Capital Region cities. 

CDPHP Cycle! also offers rentals of both e-bikes and pedal bikes. Additionally, Albany has local shops which sell e-bikes and provides repair services, including electronic upgrades for existing bikes. 

E-scooter and e-bike accidents are more frequent in the following areas:

• Downtown Albany, particularly around State Street and Pearl Street, which has high traffic from government offices and businesses.
• Empire State Plaza, where the mix of tourists and local commuters creates a dense traffic environment.
• Lark Street, a bustling area with cafes and shops, where e-scooter riders and drivers may struggle to navigate crowded streets.

Long Island

Accidents may be common in towns with heavy traffic and active pedestrian areas, such as:

• Hempstead and Garden City, particularly in downtown areas with a mix of pedestrian, vehicle, and e-scooter traffic.
• Huntington Village and Patchogue, where recreational and shopping areas make e-scooter and e-bike riding popular but also raise accident risks.
• Long Beach, where beachfront pathways attract riders and increase risks due to crowded conditions.

Protecting Riders Across New York

Wherever you are in the state, the high density of traffic and shared road space makes e-scooter and e-bike riders particularly vulnerable. Our team of personal injury attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices has a thorough understanding of the unique challenges these riders face across the state. 

With offices in Williamsville, Buffalo, Syracuse, and Rochester and a commitment to helping clients in places like Albany, Long Island, Binghamton, Watertown, and Plattsburgh, we are dedicated to serving injured New Yorkers from every corner of the state.

Liability Challenges in E-scooter and E-bike Accidents

Determining liability in e-scooter and e-bike accidents can be complex. Multiple parties might share responsibility, including:

• Motor Vehicle Drivers: Motorists must share the road responsibly with e-scooter and e-bike riders, just as they would with other vehicles. Unfortunately, many e-scooter and e-bike accidents result from negligent or distracted driving.
• Manufacturers: If an e-scooter or e-bike has a mechanical defect that contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be liable. Problems with brakes, motors, or other components can cause sudden malfunctions, leading to severe injuries.
• Rental Companies: If the e-scooter or e-bike was rented from a company, the company might be responsible for maintaining the safety of its fleet. Improper maintenance can lead to mechanical failures that contribute to accidents.
• Municipalities: In cases where a dangerous road condition, such as an unmarked hazard or poor infrastructure, caused the accident, the city or municipality may share liability.

The Responsibility of Motorists Around E-bikes and E-scooters

Motorists in New York are legally required to share the road with e-scooter and e-bike riders, following the same level of caution as they would with other cyclists and pedestrians. Unfortunately, the compact and often inconspicuous nature of e-scooters and e-bikes sometimes leads to drivers overlooking them, resulting in tragic collisions. 

In an urban environment, drivers need to exercise extra care due to the high number of vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders. Negligence by drivers can include:

• Failing to yield at intersections or crosswalks
• Speeding in areas with heavy foot traffic and scooter/bike lanes
• Distracted driving due to phone use, GPS adjustments, or other activities 

When a driver’s negligence leads to an e-scooter or e-bike accident, the injured party can pursue a personal injury claim for damages, seeking compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the accident.

Why You Need a Lawyer for E-scooter and E-bike Accident Claims

• Identifying Liable Parties: As we’ve seen, multiple parties may bear liability. A lawyer can investigate the accident, review records, and build a case against all parties responsible.
• Assessing Damages Beyond Medical Bills: Injuries from e-scooter and e-bike accidents often involve more than immediate medical expenses. They can include lost wages, loss of earning potential, pain and suffering, and other long-term impacts on your quality of life. An attorney will know how to calculate and document all damages to ensure you seek comprehensive compensation.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. A personal injury lawyer will be well-versed in negotiating with insurers and can advocate for the compensation you need to fully recover.
• Representation in Wrongful Death Cases: Tragically, some e-scooter and e-bike accidents result in fatal injuries. In such cases, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim against the responsible parties. While nothing can undo the tragedy, pursuing legal action can help a grieving family secure the financial resources they need to cover expenses and plan for the future.

Common Injuries from E-scooter and E-bike Accidents

E-scooter and e-bike accidents can result in severe injuries, even at lower speeds. Common injuries include:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: These injuries may require surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and time off work.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with helmets, riders are at risk of TBIs, which can have long-term effects on cognitive abilities, mood, and physical health.
• Spinal Injuries: These injuries can result in lifelong disabilities, sometimes requiring ongoing care and rehabilitation.
• Lacerations and Soft Tissue Damage: While not as life-threatening, these injuries still result in medical expenses, pain, and inconvenience.

Time to File Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims in New York

Under New York law, personal injury claims must generally be filed within three years from the date of the accident. However, in cases of wrongful death, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of death. Act quickly in filing a claim, as failing to do so within these timeframes can prevent you from obtaining compensation. The time deadlines are often much shorter, especially when a municipal entity is involved. 

Legal Recovery Options for E-scooter and E-bike Accidents

If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident in New York, a successful personal injury claim can help you recover damages for:

• Medical Expenses: This includes both immediate and long-term medical costs, such as hospital stays, physical therapy, surgeries, and medications.
• Lost Wages and Earning Potential: Severe injuries may prevent you from working temporarily or even permanently. Compensation can cover current and future lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: Beyond the physical impacts, accidents can cause emotional trauma, anxiety, and a diminished quality of life. New York law allows injured parties to pursue compensation for pain and suffering, especially in cases where injuries are severe.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In fatal cases, families may recover compensation for funeral expenses, lost companionship, and loss of future income.

How William Mattar Law Offices Can Help You

At William Mattar Law Offices, we understand how overwhelming it can be to face the challenges that follow an e-scooter or e-bike accident. Our legal team is here to support you with compassion and professionalism, working diligently to hold all liable parties accountable. By pursuing a claim, you’re not only seeking the compensation you need to recover but also promoting safer streets for everyone in New York.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, contact William Mattar Law Offices to discuss your legal options. A consultation with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, guide you through the process, and work toward securing the compensation you need for a brighter future. 

Call our main office in Williamsville, NY, at 716-444-4444 or contact us online anytime, 24/7. We also have offices in Buffalo, Syracuse, and Rochester, and our personal injury lawyers serve clients throughout New York, including Albany, Long Island, Binghamton, Watertown, Plattsburgh, and New York City.

FREE CASE EVALUATION