Legal options after an electric scooter accident in Miami

by | May 10, 2019 | E-Scooter Accident, Electric Scooter Injury

The number of people riding electric scooters in South Florida has increased in recent years. Lime and electric scooter rentals have become increasingly prevalent in Miami and popular tourist destinations like Key West.  They provide an easy and fun way to cruise the beaches and sightsee. They have also become an affordable and economical choice for Miami-area commuters.  As part of a six-month trial program, six scooter companies are adding the first of 300 ‘dockless’ rental scooters in Miami’s District 2. The district includes downtown Miami, Coconut Grove, Morningside and Edgewater. The companies taking part in the program are Bird, Bolt, Jump, Lime, Lyft and Spin. Although these companies promote their electric scooters as ‘fun and easy to operate,’ they pose many risks to riders and those sharing the road with them. Even if the proper safety precautions are taken, accidents can still happen.   Electric Scooter Laws in Florida In Miami, it is legal to ride an electric scooter on the sidewalk or in a bike lane (when available).  You must be 18 years or older to ride.  It is illegal to ride on the yellow lines in between lanes of traffic, to pass other vehicles. Florida law does not require operators of a scooter to wear a helmet. Miami motor vehicle laws apply to electric scooters.  This means you must stop at red lights and stop signs, drive in the same direction as traffic and always yield to pedestrians. Common Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents One major disadvantage a scooter rider has when sharing the road with other vehicles, is their lack of visibility.  They can be...
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