Electric scooters are generally permitted on sidewalks under Florida state law, but whether they are actually allowed where you are riding depends on your local ordinances. Many cities across Florida have their own rules that restrict or outright ban sidewalk riding in certain areas, which means the answer is not always straightforward.
If you have been hurt in an incident involving an electric scooter, a lawyer can help you understand how the law applies to your situation and fight to recover compensation for your injuries and losses. Let’s take a closer look at whether electric scooters are allowed on sidewalks and what a Fort Lauderdale scooter accident lawyer can do to help you.
What Florida Statutes Say About the Legality of Electric Scooters on Sidewalks
Under Florida Statute § 316.2128, electric scooter riders have the same basic rights and responsibilities as bicyclists. While state law does permit riding on sidewalks, it also gives local governments the authority to restrict or ban sidewalk riding. This means the rules can look very different depending on where you are in Florida.
For example, Miami has strict regulations on where scooters can be ridden and parked, Orlando has designated scooter lanes in certain areas, and Tampa requires riders to use bike lanes when available. Before you ride, check your local ordinances.
From a legal standpoint, where a scooter was being operated at the time of a crash can have a direct impact on your case. If a rider was in a prohibited area when the accident occurred, that fact can be used to assign fault and reduce compensation. An attorney can provide more information on whether electric scooters are legal on sidewalks and help with any injury claims.
What Qualifies as an Electric Scooter Under Florida Law?
Not every two-wheeled motorized device is treated the same under Florida law. The law states that an electric scooter is a device with an electric motor, a floorboard for standing, handlebars, and no seat, with a top speed of no more than 20 miles per hour. If the device involved in your accident does not meet that definition, different rules apply.
An attorney can review the details of your accident, determine how the law categorizes the at-fault party’s method of transportation, and pursue the damages you’re owed. Reach out to a lawyer today to learn more about whether electric scooters are legal on the sidewalk and get started on your case.
What to Do After an Electric Scooter Accident
What you do in the moments and days that follow an accident involving an electric scooter can have a real impact on your ability to recover compensation. The insurance company will be looking for any reason to reduce what they owe you, so taking action soon will help you protect yourself and your ability to seek fair compensation.
Take the following steps if you’ve been hurt in an electric scooter crash:
- Call the police and make sure an accident report is filed.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine.
- Document the scene with photos of the scooter, other vehicles involved, and any visible injuries.
- Get the contact and insurance information of everyone involved.
- Identify any witnesses and collect their contact information.
- Note the make and model of the scooter.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to the insurer without an attorney present.
Once you’ve taken these important steps, you’ll want to hire a knowledgeable attorney. A lawyer can provide information on the legality of electric scooters on sidewalks and prepare a strong claim for compensation.
How a Lawyer Can Help You After an Electric Scooter Accident
If you’ve been hurt in an electric scooter accident, you need to focus on getting the rest and medical treatment you need to recover. An attorney can handle every aspect of your injury claims while you focus on getting better.
Here’s what a lawyer will do to help you recover compensation after an injury:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence, including photos, police reports, and witness statements
- Determine how the scooter was legally classified and what rules applied at the time of the crash
- Identify all liable parties
- Handle negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf
- Work with medical experts to document your injuries and their long-term impact
- Calculate the full value of your claim
- Fight for a fair settlement and take your case to trial if the insurance company refuses to offer what you’re owed
Call or text 800-602-5000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Learn More About Whether Electric Scooters are Legal on Sidewalks
If you were hurt in an electric scooter accident, do not wait to get legal help. At Blakeley Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers, we have been fighting for everyday people across South Florida since 2013. We’ve recovered over $250 million for clients and are prepared to pursue the damages you deserve.
We work on contingency, which means you pay nothing unless we win. There is no risk in making the call. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation, find out if electric scooters are legal on sidewalks, and get started on your case.
