Electric scooters have transformed how people move through Chicago and many other major cities across the United States.
With these devices seemingly available on nearly every street corner, they provide a flexible, affordable, and fun alternative to car travel for short urban trips. However, as their presence grows in major cities, so do concerns about safety and liability. According to data reported by UC San Francisco, e-scooter accident injuries across the United States increased by 45% from 2017-2022.
But what can riders do if they are injured in an electric scooter accident?
The unique risks and e-scooter regulations that surround electric scooter accidents make it essential for those impacted to understand their rights and options.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a scooter-related accident, knowing the local context is key. Managing the legal landscape in Chicago can be a challenge, especially when laws are quickly evolving to keep up with new technologies. In this post, we will explain everything you need to know about electric scooter accident injuries in Chicago.
Electric Scooter Accidents in Chicago
Electric scooters were introduced to Chicago’s streets in 2019, with millions of trips being recorded. With thousands of rides reported each day, electric scooters are now part of daily life for many Chicagoans. Unfortunately, more usage generally leads to more accidents.
As the 3rd most populous city in the country, scooter riders here face many, many risks.
Collision hotspots in Chicago include busy streets like the Magnificent Mile, intersections along Michigan Avenue, and the Lakefront Trail. These areas see a great deal of scooter traffic alongside heavy pedestrian and vehicle flow, increasing the risk of collisions.
Common Causes of Electric Scooter Accidents
Electric scooter accidents in Chicago can be traced to a variety of factors unique to urban environments.
- Sudden lane changes by riders
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Malfunctioning scooters.
- Poor road conditions — like potholes or debris
- Chicago’s famously extreme and harsh weather.
By being aware of these common causes, both riders and others sharing the road can take steps to reduce the risk of injury.
Common Electric Scooter Accident Injuries
Electric scooter accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. The lack of physical protection for riders add another risk of harm in the event of a crash. The most common electric scooter injuries include:
- Neck trauma
- Fractures
- Lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Sprains and strains
- Dislocations
- Dental and facial injuries
- Road rash (abrasions)
- Contusions (bruises)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Chest injuries (such as rib fractures)
- Hand and wrist injuries
- Knee and ankle injuries
Helmets are not always worn, making head injuries particularly concerning. Data from the early 2020s found that nearly 70% of head injuries involved scooter riders who were not wearing a helmet.
Legal Challenges with Electric Scooters
Filing a scooter accident claim in Chicago generally falls under car accident law – as scooters are considered vehicles.
One of the most complex aspects of electric scooter injuries is determining who is at fault. In Illinois, scooters are considered vehicles, so the same traffic laws apply, but the reality is less clear-cut.
If a rider causes an accident, responsibility may fall on their shoulders. But in many cases, other parties are involved. Rental companies might be accountable for poor maintenance or mechanical failures. Municipalities may bear liability if road hazards are not addressed.
Key legal challenges in electric scooter accidents include:
- Determining fault among multiple parties (riders, rental companies, municipalities)
- Limited or unclear insurance coverage for scooter riders
- Rental companies often provide minimal or no insurance
- Municipal liability if unsafe road conditions contribute to accidents
- The need for careful examination of contracts, insurance policies, and state laws
Insurance coverage is another major challenge. Many scooter riders do not have insurance that covers their use. Rental companies often include limited coverage or none at all. As a result, victims may face significant medical bills with little hope for reimbursement unless they pursue a legal claim.
For personal injury victims, gaps in coverage and evolving laws can delay or complicate the process of securing fair compensation. Each case often requires a careful review of contracts, insurance policies, and state laws.
Steps After an Electric Scooter Accident Injury
Taking the right steps after a scooter accident can make a big difference in protecting your health and legal rights.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if injuries seem minor after a car accident in Chicago, get a thorough medical evaluation from the staff on the scene. Head injuries and internal trauma might not be immediately apparent.
Medical documentation is super important if you decide to file a claim after an auto accident. Getting immediate treatment can also prevent complications from developing later. Additionally, delaying medical care may give insurance companies a reason to question serious injuries.
Report the Accident
Notify law enforcement and make sure an official report is filed. This creates an incident record that may be necessary for insurance or legal claims. Request a copy of the police report for your records. If law enforcement does not arrive, file a report at the nearest police station as soon as possible.
Document the Scene
If you can, try to take clear photos of the accident location, all vehicles or scooters involved, visible injuries, and any property damage. These images preserve evidence that could otherwise be lost. Photograph road conditions, traffic signs, and any obstructions that may have contributed to the accident.
Be sure to capture images from multiple angles for a comprehensive record.
Gather Witness Information
If possible, collect names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident. Witness statements can provide valuable support for your version of events. Ask witnesses to describe what they saw and, if possible, get written or recorded statements. Their testimony can be important if the case goes to court or an insurance dispute arises.
Preserve All Evidence
Keep damaged clothing, scooter parts, or personal belongings from the accident.
Save any receipts for related expenses and maintain a file with all accident-related documents. Do not repair or dispose of any damaged items until your claim has been resolved. Organize all paperwork in a safe place so you can easily access it when needed.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider and, if necessary, the scooter rental company.
Provide them with basic facts, nothing more. Making assumptions or oversharing could potentially imply fault and reduce the value of your claim. Ask what information or documentation they require to process your claim.
Be extra cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters (even your own) and consider speaking with a lawyer before providing detailed statements.
Consult a Car Accident Lawyer to file an E-Scooter Personal Injury Claim
If you suffered any injuries from a scooter accident, reach out to a Chicago car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Legal counsel can help determine if you have a valid car accident claim, what compensation you may be entitled to, and can guide you through the legal process. An attorney can also handle communications with insurance companies and opposing parties. Early legal advice often improves your chances of a successful outcome.
Fair Compensation for Electric Scooter Injuries
Victims of motor vehicle accidents involving scooters can seek damages to cover both the immediate and long-term effects of their injuries. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses, hospital stays, and ongoing therapy
- Lost wages if you are unable to work during recovery
- Costs related to long-term or permanent disability
- Pain and suffering, both physical and mental
The total amount will depend on the severity of the injury, required medical treatment, and impact on daily life. In cases with long-term effects — like concussions or chronic pain — victims may also claim future medical expenses or reduced earning capacity.
How Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Help with Scooter Injury Cases
Gathering Evidence
A personal accident lawyer’s role is to gather and present evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with responsible parties. This process typically includes reviewing police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
In scooter crashes, gathering evidence may also mean analyzing hardware, maintenance logs, and city infrastructure records.
Calculating Damages
Determining the value of damages in an electric scooter injury case involves a careful assessment of both economic and non-economic losses.
Economic damages typically include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and any property damage resulting from the accident. Non-economic damages account for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These can be extremely difficult to calculate (and negotiate for) in a personal injury case. Personal injury lawyers can help you place a monetary value on these hardships.
A skilled attorney can work with medical experts, financial professionals, and other specialists to make sure all current and future losses are fully documented and accurately calculated.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies for a Rightful Settlement
Lawyers know how to counter common tactics auto insurance companies use to minimize payouts for e-scooter accident injuries. They can also identify liable parties — like scooter companies or city authorities — and make sure deadlines for filing claims are met. Attorneys are equipped to evaluate settlement offers and advise you whether to accept or pursue further negotiation.
Their experience and understanding of the Chicago car accident claim process is instrumental in receiving higher compensation than victims might secure on their own. In some cases, insurance companies may not even negotiate with victims if they do not have an attorney present.
Most importantly, a car accident injury lawyer makes sure your story is heard and your losses are measured accurately.
File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Court (If Needed)
If negotiations with insurance companies or responsible parties do not result in a fair settlement to cover your damages, an experienced car accident attorney may recommend taking your case to court. They will prepare all necessary legal documents, present evidence, and fight for every dollar you are owed.
Court proceedings can be complicated, and having a skilled Chicago personal injury law firm on your side increases your chances of a favorable outcome. Your lawyer will also handle cross-examinations, expert testimony, and make sure all requirements are met to strengthen your claim.
Get in Touch with a Chicago Car Accident Injury Law Firm
Car crashes involving electric scooters have many challenges that go beyond the average car accident injury claim. With current laws and insurance coverage around scooters changing, understanding what the current process looks like is key after an accident.
If you’ve suffered any electric scooter injuries due to a negligent driver, the team at Midwest Injury Lawyers is here to fight for the settlement you deserve. One of our Chicago car accident attorneys can help you stand up for your health and your best interests.
Schedule a FREE consultation today.