E-scooters are becoming a familiar sight in Ontario. They’re popular because they are quick, affordable, and considered better for the environment than cars. Some people buy their own, while others use city pilot programs that allow rentals. With their rise in popularity, though, comes a rise in new risks and legal questions.
Why E-Scooter Accidents Are Increasing
Although they are convenient, e-scooters can also be dangerous. They move quickly, make very little noise, and are often used in places where there are a lot of cars or pedestrians. Many riders are still learning how to handle them properly, especially in crowded downtown areas.
The most common causes of accidents include:
– Getting hit by a car.
– Running into potholes, gravel, or uneven roads.
– Collisions with pedestrians when scooters are used on sidewalks.
– Mechanical problems like broken brakes or loose handlebars.
– Riding at night without enough lighting to stay visible.
Since e-scooters are small and don’t protect the rider, even a low-speed crash can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, or deep cuts.
Confusing Legal Rules
Ontario’s e-scooter laws are not consistent. Each city decides its own rules. Some have rental programs, while others ban them altogether. Helmet rules also change depending on where you are, and it is not always obvious whether insurance is required.
If you get injured, figuring out who is responsible can be tricky. It might be:
– A driver who hit you.
– The city if poor road conditions caused the crash.
– A rental company if the scooter was defective.
– Another rider or a pedestrian who acted carelessly.
Each of these situations requires a different approach when it comes to legal claims, timelines, and evidence.
Why E-Scooter Claims Are Complicated
E-scooter injury claims are often harder to deal with than other accidents because:
– Insurance companies may argue you accepted the risk by riding.
– Rental contracts often try to limit the company’s responsibility.
– Municipalities sometimes require accident reports within as little as 10 days.
– The law around e-scooters is still new, so legal outcomes are harder to predict.
Because of this, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights.
What to Do After an E-Scooter Accident
If you are in an e-scooter crash, here are the most important steps:
- Get medical help right away. Some injuries, like concussions, are not obvious at first. Medical records also help your case later.
- Collect evidence. Take photos of the scooter, the road, any hazards, and your injuries. If it is a rental, note the company and scooter details.
- Find witnesses. Ask for names and contact information from anyone who saw what happened.
- Report it. If it happened on a public road, call the police. If it was on city property, you may need to give written notice to the city within a short time.
- Hold onto the scooter. If something on the scooter malfunctioned, it could be important evidence.
- Talk to a lawyer first. Insurance companies and rental operators may use what you say against you to reduce or deny your claim.
Types of Compensation
If you are injured, you might be able to recover money for:
– Medical costs such as hospital treatment, rehab, and medication.
– Lost wages if you cannot work.
– Pain, suffering, and emotional stress.
– Future medical needs if the injury is long term.
– Repair or replacement of damaged personal property.
Why It’s Important to Act Soon
The laws around e-scooters are still developing in Ontario, and there is no single approach that applies to every case. That’s why having a lawyer who understands these cases is important. A legal team can collect evidence quickly, handle insurance negotiations, and guide you through the process.
Our firm has worked on cases involving new transportation options, such as rideshare vehicles and cycling accidents. We know how to investigate these incidents, establish who is responsible, and fight for fair compensation.
If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident, the sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Do not wait until deadlines pass. Contact us today so we can help you move forward with your recovery.
