Understanding Your Rights: What to Do After an Electric Scooter Accident in New Jersey

Electric scooters have become increasingly popular as an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation in many urban settings, including New Jersey. However, like any other mode of transportation, they come with their own set of risks. If you’ve been involved in an electric scooter accident in New Jersey, it’s essential to know your rights and the steps you should take afterward.

At Birkhold & Maider, LLC, we specialize in ensuring that electric scooter accident victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. Below, we’ll walk you through the crucial steps you need to take after such an accident.

Immediate Steps Following an Electric Scooter Accident

Electric scooter accidents can be sudden and traumatic. Knowing how to react immediately after such an incident is crucial for ensuring your safety and protecting your rights. If you ever find yourself in such a situation, here are the essential steps to follow:

Ensuring Safety and Assessing Injuries

Ensure Safety First: Before anything else, assess your safety. If you’re in the middle of a busy road or in a potentially hazardous area, try to move to a safer location, if physically possible. If you’re seriously injured, it’s best to remain still and avoid exacerbating any injuries.
Check for Injuries: Once in a safe spot, check yourself for injuries. If you’re with others, check on them as well. Remember, some injuries might not be immediately apparent, so it’s always a good idea to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine at the moment.

Reporting and Documenting the Incident

Call 911: Report the accident to the authorities. If you or someone else has sustained injuries, request medical assistance. Even if the injuries seem minor, having an official report of the incident can be essential for insurance or legal purposes later on.
Document the Scene: If you’re able to, take photos or videos of the accident scene. Capture the state of your scooter, any other vehicles involved, your injuries, and the surroundings. This documentation can be vital evidence should you need it later.
Gather Witness Information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact details. They may be able to provide an independent account of what happened, which can be invaluable in cases of disputes or legal proceedings.

Post-Accident Considerations

Do Not Admit Fault: It’s natural to want to apologize or assume blame after an accident, especially if emotions are running high. However, it’s essential to avoid admitting fault. The precise cause of the accident may be unclear, and admitting fault can complicate potential legal or insurance claims.
Keep a Record: As soon as you can, write down everything you remember about the accident. Details might become blurry as time passes, so having a written account can be a helpful reference later.
Notify Your Insurance Provider: If you have insurance that covers electric scooter accidents or personal injuries, notify them about the incident as soon as possible. They will guide you on the next steps and inform you about any documentation they may require.
Avoid Discussing the Accident on Social Media: It might be tempting to share your experience or update friends and family about the accident on social media platforms. However, it’s best to avoid doing so. Anything you post can potentially be used against you in insurance or legal proceedings.
Seek Legal Advice: If you believe someone else’s negligence caused the accident or if you’re facing complications with insurance claims, consider seeking legal counsel. An attorney familiar with electric scooter accidents can guide you on the best course of action.

Remember, the immediate aftermath of an accident can be disorienting. Prioritizing your safety and calmly following the steps above will help ensure you’re protected both physically and legally.

Reporting the Incident to Authorities

Call the Police: Reporting the accident to the police is vital. They will create an official accident report, which will be critical if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
Be Honest, But Concise: When speaking to authorities, provide factual information but avoid speculating about the causes of the accident.
Obtain a Copy of the Police Report: This will serve as a valuable piece of evidence in case you decide to seek compensation.

New Jersey Laws Regarding Electric Scooter Accidents

Electric scooters in New Jersey are governed by a set of regulations aimed at ensuring rider safety:

Age Limit: Riders must be at least 16 years old.
Helmets: It’s mandatory for riders under the age of 17 to wear a helmet.
Riding on Roads: Electric scooters can be used on roads with speed limits up to 25 mph.
Legal Standing: If you were in compliance with these laws at the time of your accident, you have a better standing when pursuing compensation. Even if you believe you may have breached one of these regulations, it’s essential to consult with a legal professional to understand your rights.

Why You May Need Legal Assistance

Navigating the Legal Landscape: Electric scooter laws are relatively new and can be complex. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer will help you understand the ins and outs of your case.
Seeking Compensation: If your accident was due to someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensation. This could cover medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering.
Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurers often aim to minimize payouts. Having an experienced attorney on your side ensures that you get fair treatment.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer at Birkhold & Maider, LLC for a Free Consultation About Your Case Today

Electric scooter accidents can be jarring and lead to significant physical and emotional distress. Knowing the immediate steps to take and understanding your rights in New Jersey can make all the difference in ensuring your safety and protecting your legal interests.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an electric scooter accident in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Birkhold & Maider, LLC. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you get the justice and compensation you deserve.