Introduction

New York City's streets are busier than ever — and not just with cars. Over the past few years, shared e-scooters and e-bikes have exploded across the city, offering a fast, flexible, and eco-friendly way to get around.

But with this convenience comes serious risk.

E-scooter and e-bike injuries are on the rise, and if you're hurt, understanding your legal rights is crucial. Here's what every rider — and every pedestrian — should know before hopping on.

Why E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents Are Different

Unlike traditional car accidents, e-scooter and e-bike crashes often involve:

• Limited or no insurance coverage

• Faulty or poorly maintained equipment

• City infrastructure problems like potholes, missing bike lanes, or blocked pathways

• Complicated contracts and user waivers buried in the apps

In short: if you're hurt while riding or hit by a rider, your case may be more complex than you realize.

Who Might Be Responsible?

Depending on the circumstances, several parties could be legally responsible for your injuries:

🛴 The E-Scooter or E-Bike Company

If the device malfunctioned — brakes failed, battery caught fire, or wheels locked up — the company may be liable for negligent maintenance or defective design.

🏙️ The City or Municipality

If your crash happened because of a giant pothole, dangerous road conditions, poor lighting, or a lack of safe bike infrastructure, the city could be at fault. However, cases against public agencies have special filing deadlines and requirements.

🚗 Another Driver or Pedestrian

If you were struck by a car, hit by another e-rider, or knocked over by a pedestrian, you could file a claim against the individual’s insurance (if applicable).

👤 The Rider Themselves

If a rider was reckless — speeding, riding on sidewalks, ignoring traffic laws — and caused your injury, they may be personally liable.

Common Injuries from E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

Sadly, e-scooter and e-bike crashes often lead to serious injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (especially without helmets)

• Broken bones and fractures

• Severe road rash and lacerations

• Spinal cord injuries

• Internal organ damage

• Dental and facial injuries

Even minor crashes can cause injuries that lead to weeks or months of lost income, medical bills, and lasting pain.

What About the Fine Print? (User Agreements and Waivers)

Most rental apps — like Lime, Bird, or Citi Bike — make you click "I Agree" to pages of fine print before you ride.

These agreements often try to limit the company's responsibility for accidents, even if their equipment is unsafe.

⚡ The good news:

Just because you accepted the app’s terms doesn’t always mean you’ve given up your legal rights. Courts in New York often closely scrutinize these contracts, especially when safety is involved.

If you’ve been hurt, don't assume you have no case just because of something you clicked on.

Protect Yourself: Steps to Take After an E-Scooter or E-Bike Accident

If you're injured:

1. 📸 Take Photos of the scooter, bike, road conditions, and your injuries.

2. 🚓 Report the Accident to police or city authorities immediately.

3. 📋 Get Medical Attention — even if you feel "okay" at first.

4. 👥 Gather Witness Information — anyone nearby can help verify what happened.

5. 📱 Save the App Data — screenshots of your ride, rental ID, and time.

6. 🧑‍⚖️ Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney before talking to the company or accepting any settlement.

Why Having a Lawyer Matters

E-scooter and e-bike accident cases require careful handling. An experienced personal injury attorney can:

• Investigate the cause of the crash

• Identify all potential sources of compensation

• Challenge unfair user agreements

• Deal with insurance companies trying to lowball your claim

• Protect you against missing important filing deadlines (especially if the city is involved)

At Lockamy & Associates, we fight to make sure you are treated fairly and get the full compensation you deserve — so you can focus on healing.

If you or someone you love has been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, don’t wait. Contact Lockamy & Associates for a free consultation today.