Moped and Scooter Accidents
In part due to Florida’s year-round mild weather conditions, the use of mopeds and scooters continue to be a popular form of transportation throughout the state. As gas prices increase, so does the use of these alternative modes of transportation. Unfortunately, as their presence on our sidewalks and roadways increases, so does the potential for serious accidents. At Alba & Straile PLLC, we represent the victims of accidents involving the drivers or passengers of mopeds, scooters, and other low-speed motorized vehicles.
The use of scooters and mopeds is especially prevalent in college communities. Large college campuses, in particular, have higher rates of these transportation modes. Gainesville’s University of Florida alone has more than 50,000 students. As a result of the sheer volume of students who require a convenient and affordable means of transportation to make short-distance trips frequently, scooters and mopeds have gained increasing popularity. Examples of scooters include self-balancing transportation such as hoverboards or segways without seats or handlebars. Mopeds are two-wheeled bicycle vehicles, powered by a small engine and the rider. Low-speed motorized vehicles in Florida are defined as four-wheeled vehicles with a top speed that does not exceed 25 miles per hour. They have a weight rating of fewer than 3000 pounds. An example of a low-speed vehicle is a golf cart or a mobility scooter used by persons with functional limitations.
Risks of Injury
While convenient, the use of mopeds, scooters and other low-speed vehicles prove to be dangerous. Accidents at any significant speed result in injuries and fatalities. In addition, highly populated areas often have heavy traffic, making the risk of traveling by these vehicles all the more dangerous. One of the leading causes of death in moped and scooter accidents is the driver or passenger’s failure to wear a helmet. While wearing a helmet is optional in Florida, a helmet can prevent severe traumatic brain injuries. Unfortunately, a recent study revealed that more than 17% of moped users were not wearing a helmet at the time of an accident. The moped and scooter accident attorneys at Alba & Straile PLLC urge all drivers and passengers to protect themselves with the use of a helmet.
Just a few types of Scooter and Moped cases that we represent are:
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone collisions
- Sideswipe accidents
- Injuries as a passenger
- Driving under the influence accidents
- Hit-and-run collisions
- Loss of control
- Door swipe accidents
Moped, scooters, and low-speed vehicles, just like motorcycles, are particularly dangerous due to the exposed nature of the driver or passenger. Of the accidents that occur each year in Florida, more than 90%, on average, involved an injury or fatality. Such an alarming rate of injury is a concerning safety issue for residents of Florida. If you were injured or a loved one killed in a moped, scooter, or low-speed vehicle accident, it is crucial that you know your legal rights. In some cases, such as a hit and run accident, the victim may be covered under their own auto insurance policy.
Scooter and Moped Accident-Related Injuries include, but are not limited to:
- Multiple Injuries
- Permanent Injury
- Passenger Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Wrongful death
- Catastrophic Injury
- Emotional trauma
Who is Responsible?
Moped, scooter, and low-speed vehicle accidents, like any other accident, require a thorough investigation to assess all possible causes. Liability for injuries and damages depends on the unique factors of each claim. The at-fault person or entity may be fully responsible, or there can be a shared liability. For example, a pedestrian that intentionally causes an accident may be the liable party. A scooter or moped manufacturer can be the defendant in a product liability claim if defects caused or contributed to an accident. A government entity may have liability due to unmaintained roadways, sidewalks or unmarked hazards. Businesses that leave products or debris on the road or walkway may be the responsible party.
Obtain Compensation for your Injuries and Damages
There are time limitations associated with your right to bring a claim, in addition to requirements that the victim seeks medical treatment within a specified period following the accident. Therefore, it is imperative that you consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in moped, scooter, and low-speed vehicle accidents as soon as possible.
Alba & Straile PLLC is committed to providing our clients with compassion, attention to detail, and ease of attorney access. With more than three decades of combined experience in personal injury and criminal law, our attorneys are knowledgeable, skilled, and focused on achieving client results. We provide our clients with the sound legal representation necessary to effectively and efficiently address all of their accident-related needs. We represent clients throughout the state of Florida. Contact Alba & Straile PLLC at (352) 371-9141 for a consultation to discuss how we can help.