If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident in Tampa, you need an experienced scooter accident lawyer in Tampa to trust and fight for your rights. Electric scooters have become increasingly popular throughout Hillsborough County. However, with their rise comes a corresponding increase in serious accidents and injuries.

At Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers, our Tampa scooter accident attorneys understand the unique challenges these cases present. We work tirelessly to help injured victims recover the full compensation they deserve. Don’t let insurance companies minimize your claim. Contact our dedicated legal team today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Call (813) 605-1100 now.

Why Choose Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers for Your Tampa Scooter Accident Case

When facing the aftermath of a scooter accident, choosing the right legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers brings extensive experience in personal injury law, including impressive negotiation results for our clients in a range of cases.

Our firm’s record includes recovering settlements up to 58 times more than the insurance company’s initial offer. While this particular achievement applies to all personal injury cases, it demonstrates the skill and determination we bring to every client we represent, including scooter accident victims.

Our legal team understands the evolving field of micromobility law. We stay current with changes in regulations affecting scooter operations in Tampa and throughout Florida, allowing us to identify all potential sources of liability and build the strongest possible case for our clients.

We also maintain relationships with accident reconstruction professionals, medical specialists, and other experts who provide crucial testimony to support your claim. Our thorough investigation process means that no detail is overlooked and that all responsible parties are held accountable.

Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your case, making quality legal representation accessible during a financially challenging time.

We handle all communication with insurance companies, protecting you from tactics designed to minimize your claim. Our negotiation skills and trial experience help secure fair settlements, and we are ready to pursue litigation when necessary.

Learn more about filing insurance claims against other drivers in Tampa.

Rising Scooter Accidents in Tampa and Hillsborough County

Electric scooters, or motorized scooters under Florida law, have transformed urban transportation in Tampa, offering residents and visitors a convenient way to travel the city’s busy streets. However, this growing popularity has resulted in a clear increase in scooter-related accidents and injuries across Hillsborough County.

Tampa’s unique urban environment features busy thoroughfares like State Road 60 and SR 589 (Veterans Expressway), which present particular challenges for scooter riders. The combination of heavy traffic, construction zones, and varying road conditions creates numerous hazards that can lead to serious accidents. Additionally, downtown Tampa and areas near the University of South Florida have seen more scooter use, which brings new safety considerations for all road users.

A hospital-based study found that teens and young adults are among the most frequently injured in electric scooter accidents in Tampa, often requiring emergency treatment or hospital admission (Electric Scooter Injuries in Tampa, PMC). Children under 14 are also frequently involved, underscoring the importance of safety awareness for families. As usage grows in popular areas such as downtown, university neighborhoods, and entertainment districts, both riders and motorists must remain alert and exercise caution.​

If you have been injured in a scooter accident in Tampa, it is essential to understand your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation and holding the responsible parties accountable.

Common Causes of Scooter Accidents in Tampa

Scooter accidents in Tampa happen for many reasons, often due to the negligence of others. Understanding these common causes can help you establish liability and build a stronger personal injury claim.

• Motor vehicle collisions, involving cars, trucks, and/or motorcycles, are a major hazard for scooter riders. Tampa drivers may not see scooters, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
• Distracted driving is a leading factor. Drivers who text, talk on the phone, or use in-vehicle technology often fail to notice scooters sharing the road.
• Impaired driving by intoxicated drivers creates significant risks, as their reaction times and judgment are compromised.
• Dooring incidents occur when vehicle occupants open car doors without checking for oncoming scooters, forcing riders to swerve or crash.
• Running red lights or stop signs puts scooter riders in immediate danger, as does failing to yield the right-of-way at intersections.
• Poor road conditions, such as potholes, construction debris, and inadequate lighting, often contribute to scooter accidents.
• Reckless driving behaviors—including speeding, aggressive lane changes, and following too closely—further endanger scooter riders.
• Failure to yield to scooters in crosswalks and bike lanes is a frequent issue on busy Tampa streets.
• Unsafe parking and congestion in high-traffic areas near downtown Tampa and university campuses can lead to collisions with other road users.

Understanding the concept of determining fault in car accidents is crucial to proving liability in these types of cases.

Serious Injuries from Tampa Scooter Accidents

Scooter accidents often result in severe injuries. This is due to the lack of protection riders have compared to occupants of motor vehicles. Understanding the types and severity of scooter injuries commonly sustained can help you appreciate the importance of seeking proper medical care and legal representation.

• Head and brain injuries are among the most serious consequences of scooter accidents. Riders are at significant risk for traumatic brain injuries, which can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring long-term care. Even when a helmet is worn, the force of impact in a scooter crash can still cause substantial head trauma. These injuries may require immediate emergency attention and can result in ongoing cognitive, physical, and emotional challenges.
• Fractures and broken bones frequently occur when riders are thrown from their scooters or struck by vehicles. Common fracture sites include arms, wrists, legs, and ribs. These injuries often require surgical intervention and extended recovery periods. Additionally, they may result in permanent limitations.
• Spinal cord injuries represent some of the most serious consequences of scooter accidents. Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. This fundamentally alters a victim’s quality of life and requires extensive medical treatment and adaptive equipment.
• Road rash and soft tissue injuries occur when riders slide across pavement after being thrown from their scooters. While these may seem minor compared to other injuries, severe road rash can require skin grafts. Furthermore, it can leave permanent scarring.
• Facial injuries are also common in scooter accidents. These include dental damage, jaw fractures, and eye injuries. These injuries can require reconstructive surgery and may have lasting cosmetic and functional impacts.

Florida Laws and Regulations for Electric Scooters

Understanding Florida’s laws regarding electric scooters is crucial for both riders and accident victims seeking compensation. Florida Statute 316.2128 governs the operation of electric scooters and establishes important rules that affect liability in accident cases.

Under Florida law, electric scooters are classified as “micromobility devices.” They are treated similarly to bicycles, meaning riders must follow many of the same traffic rules as other vehicle operators. Scooters may be operated on roads with speed limits of 30 mph or less, and riders must use bike lanes when available. However, scooters are generally prohibited on sidewalks in business districts to protect pedestrians.

Key Rules for Florida:

• Riders under 16 years of age must wear helmets. Adults are not required to wear helmets, though helmet use is strongly encouraged since it can affect comparative negligence in personal injury claims.
• Electric scooters under 20 mph do not require insurance, while gas-powered scooters must be registered and may need insurance coverage under financial responsibility laws.
• Florida’s modified comparative negligence law allows injured parties to recover compensation only if they are 50% or less at fault for the accident. Victims who are more than 50% responsible cannot recover damages.

Tampa has implemented additional ordinances for scooter use within city limits. As of April 1, 2024, the city requires scooters to be parked in approved docking stations or designated corrals, with fines of up to $5 for violations (City of Tampa – New eScooter Rules). These regulations address parking, operational zones, and safety equipment recommendations.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Your Scooter Accident?

Determining liability in scooter accident cases requires careful investigation and analysis of all contributing factors. Multiple parties may bear responsibility for your injuries. Identifying all liable parties is crucial for maximizing your compensation.

• Motor vehicle drivers represent the most common liable parties in scooter accidents. When drivers fail to exercise reasonable care and their negligence causes accidents, they can be held responsible for resulting injuries and damages. This includes situations involving distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, or failure to yield. Our Tampa car accident lawyers have extensive experience holding negligent drivers accountable.
• Scooter rental companies may face liability when accidents result from defective equipment, inadequate maintenance, or failure to provide proper safety instructions. Companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin operate in Tampa’s downtown area. They have faced numerous lawsuits related to mechanical failures and safety defects.
• Government entities can be held liable when dangerous road conditions contribute to accidents. This includes situations involving poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, defective traffic signals, or dangerous construction zones. Claims against government entities involve special procedures and shorter deadlines.
• Property owners may be held responsible for accidents that occur due to hazardous conditions on their premises. This includes debris in bike lanes, inadequate lighting, or improperly maintained parking areas where scooters are stored.
• Manufacturers of scooters or component parts can face product liability claims when defects in design or manufacturing contribute to accidents. This includes issues with brakes, steering mechanisms, batteries, or structural components.

Compensation Available for Tampa Scooter Accident Victims

Victims of scooter accidents in Tampa may be entitled to various forms of compensation. The amount depends on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of their accident. Understanding the types of damages available can help you appreciate the full value of your claim.

• Economic damages compensate for quantifiable financial losses resulting from your accident. Medical expenses represent a significant component. These include emergency room treatment, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care. Future medical expenses must also be considered for injuries requiring long-term treatment.
• Lost wages compensation covers income lost due to your inability to work during recovery. This includes not only immediate lost earnings but also reduced earning capacity. This applies if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation or working at full capacity.
• Property damage compensation covers the repair or replacement of damaged personal property. This includes the scooter itself, clothing, electronic devices, and other items damaged in the accident.
• Non-economic damages address the intangible impacts of your injuries. Pain and suffering compensation recognizes the physical discomfort and emotional distress caused by your injuries.
• Mental anguish damages address psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress resulting from the accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life damages compensate for your inability to participate in activities and hobbies you previously enjoyed.
• Disfigurement and scarring damages address the cosmetic and psychological impacts of permanent physical changes.

In cases involving particularly egregious conduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the responsible party. Under Florida law, they aim to deter similar behavior in the future.

What to Do After a Scooter Accident in Tampa

The actions you take immediately following a scooter accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Following these steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your potential claim.

• Seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries, particularly head injuries and internal trauma, may not present symptoms immediately. Having medical documentation from the scene creates an important record linking your injuries to the accident.
• Contact law enforcement to report the accident and request that an official report be filed. Police reports provide objective documentation of the accident scene. They may include important details about contributing factors and witness statements.
• Document the accident scene thoroughly by taking photographs of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and your injuries. Collect contact information from all parties involved and any witnesses who observed the accident.
• Avoid making statements about fault or accepting blame for the accident. Insurance adjusters may use these statements against you later. This can happen even if they don’t accurately reflect the circumstances of the accident.
• Contact an experienced Tampa scooter accident attorney as soon as possible. Early legal intervention allows for proper evidence preservation. It also helps meet important deadlines. Your attorney can handle communications with insurance companies while you focus on your recovery.
• Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, expenses, and impacts on your daily life. This documentation will be crucial for establishing the full extent of your damages. Additionally, it supports your compensation claim. Review our personal injury case preparation checklist for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tampa Scooter Accidents

Contact our Tampa Scooter Accident Lawyers Today

If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident in Tampa or anywhere in Hillsborough County, don’t wait to seek legal help. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Florida is two years for accidents occurring on or after March 24, 2023. Prior to this date, a four-year limitation period applied. However, evidence can disappear, and witness memories can fade over time. Learn more about Florida legal timelines for suing after an accident.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your options for recovery. Call (813) 605-1100 now.

Our experienced team of Tampa scooter accident lawyers is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers now to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward getting your life back on track.

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