Scooters vs. Pedestrians: Risks & Legal Insights

Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around. However, some safety concerns are associated with electric scooters, particularly regarding pedestrians. Our Atlanta personal injury attorneys are breaking down the most recent laws for electric scooters or e-scooters, the dangers for pedestrians, and what electric scooter riders can do to ensure they follow the laws and practice safety for all while riding electric scooters. 

The most recent laws in Georgia for electric scooters

On January 7, 2019, the Atlanta police department adopted regulations for scooter riders. Highlighted below are the most recent laws in Atlanta for e-scooters.

• To legally operate an electric scooter in Georgia, riders must be at least the age of 16 and have a valid driver’s license.
• E-scooter riders must obey all traffic laws, including traffic signals, stop signs, and speed limits.
• Helmet laws may vary by city. However, it is recommended for e-scooter riders of all ages to wear a helmet at all times.
• E-scooter should not exceed the maximum speed limit specified for bicycles, usually around 20 miles per hour.
• In Georgia, riders must park their E-scooter in designated areas or parking zones.
• While specific insurance requirements may vary, riders are generally responsible for any damages or injuries caused while operating an electric scooter. 
• E-scooter riders should also be cautious when sharing the road with other vehicles, yielding to pedestrians and avoiding reckless maneuvers.
• E-scooter riders are prohibited from riding on the sidewalks. 
• E-scooter riders are prohibited from using a cell phone while riding.
• Atlanta law states that only one rider per E-scooter. 

What options do pedestrians have if injured by an E-Scooter Rider?

Unfortunately, top scooter companies, such as Bird, Spin, and Lime, refuse to accept any responsibility for harm caused to pedestrians by riders. However, if the rider sticks around, get as much information as possible from the rider, take any photos of your injuries, seek medical treatment, and contact an experienced Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Attorney who can help you with your personal injury claim. 

The dangers that electric scooters pose to pedestrians 

Since the popularity of E-scooters has grown in the United States, there have been a number of accidents involving electric scooters and pedestrians. These accidents have sometimes resulted in severe injuries or even death. Here are some of the dangers that electric scooter riders pose to pedestrians.

• Electric scooters are quiet. This can make it difficult for pedestrians to hear them coming, leading to collisions.
• Electric scooters can travel at high speeds. E-scooters traveling at high speeds can be dangerous for pedestrians, especially if they do not expect an electric scooter to come.
• Electric scooter riders often do not obey traffic laws. This can include riding on sidewalks, not wearing helmets, and not signaling turns.
• Electric scooter riders are often inexperienced. This can lead to them making mistakes that can put pedestrians at risk.

Here are some tips for pedestrians to stay safe around electric scooters:

• Be aware of your surroundings. Listen for the sound of electric scooters and be on the lookout for them.
• Pay attention to your blind spots. Electric scooters can be small and easy to miss, so it is essential to be aware of your blind spots when walking.
• Cross the street at crosswalks. This will give you the right of way and make it easier for you to see and be seen by electric scooter riders.
• If you are walking on a sidewalk, be aware of electric scooter riders who may be trying to pass you. Moving to the side of the sidewalk is best to give them room to pass safely.

If you are an electric scooter rider, there are also some things you can do to stay safe and avoid collisions with pedestrians:

• Obey traffic laws, including riding on the street, not on the sidewalk, and signaling turns.
• Wear a helmet to protect you in the event of a crash.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to pedestrians and be prepared to slow down or stop if you see someone in your path.
• Be courteous to pedestrians. Give them the right of way and let them know when you pass them.

By following these tips, you can help to keep yourself and pedestrians safe around electric scooters.

What to do if you are in a pedestrian accident with an electric scooter in Atlanta?

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident with an electric scooter, you should get medical treatment immediately. It’s important to make sure you get the help you need. Then you should call an experienced pedestrian attorney in Atlanta immediately. Georgia Trial Attorneys can ensure that you receive the compensation you rightly deserve.

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