Electric scooters have become a common sight on Nashville streets, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around. However, with over 4,000 e-scooters in the city, accidents have also become increasingly frequent. Injuries from scooter accidents can leave victims facing significant medical expenses, lost wages, and uncertainty about their legal rights. If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident, a Nashville scooter accident injury lawyer from Aubrey Givens & Associates PLLC is here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
With our legal guidance, we’ll guide you through the process of determining liability, pursuing a claim, and securing a fair resolution to help you rebuild your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Scooter Accidents in Nashville
Scooter accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. Understanding the leading causes of these accidents can better illustrate the challenges victims face and the importance of seeking skilled legal representation.
Reckless Driving by Motorists
Motorists are often inattentive to the presence of e-scooters on the road. Reckless behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving, running red lights, or failing to yield can lead to devastating collisions involving scooter riders.
Scooter Malfunctions or Defects
Scooters with faulty brakes, inadequate lighting, or speed control defects can put riders at risk. These malfunctions may result from manufacturing flaws or poor maintenance by scooter companies, making them potentially liable for rider injuries.
Road Hazards and Poor Infrastructure
Nashville’s infrastructure is not always suited for scooter safety. Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris on streets and sidewalks can cause riders to lose control, leading to serious accidents.
Rider Inexperience or Negligence
While electric scooters are simple to operate, inexperienced or negligent riders are more prone to crashes. Failing to follow traffic rules, improper parking, or riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol can all lead to accidents.
Who May Be Liable in a Scooter Accident?
Determining liability in a scooter accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. A Nashville scooter accident injury lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident to identify potential liable parties, such as:
- The Rider: If a rider disobeys traffic laws or operates the scooter negligently, they may be held liable.
- Other Drivers: Motorists who act recklessly or carelessly can be responsible for collisions with scooters.
- Pedestrians: A pedestrian acting negligently, such as stepping into a scooter’s path, could also share liability.
- Manufacturers: Defective scooter components, such as brakes or tires, may put liability on the manufacturer.
- E-Scooter Companies: Companies like Bird or Lime that operate poorly maintained scooters may be held accountable for accidents caused by malfunctioning vehicles.
- The City of Nashville: Poorly maintained roads, sidewalk hazards, or insufficient lighting can make the city partially liable for scooter accidents.
Companies like Uber and Lyft are currently working towards creating their own version of electric scooters to Nashville’s busy streets.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Scooter Injury?
Under Tennessee’s comparative fault laws, you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident, as long as your share of responsibility was less than 50%. A Nashville scooter accident injury lawyer can help you pursue various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses and Future Care Costs: Immediate medical bills, including ER visits, surgeries, prescriptions, and rehabilitation costs, can quickly add up after an accident. If your injuries require long-term care or future treatment, those costs can also be factored into your personal injury claim.
- Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working or reduce your ability to earn in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and diminished earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional trauma caused by a scooter accident can have lasting effects on your quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering takes these non-economic damages into account.
- Property Damage or Loss: If your personal property, such as a smartphone or other belongings, was damaged in the accident, those losses can also be included in your compensation claim.
What to Do After a Scooter Accident in Nashville
Taking the right steps immediately after a scooter accident can strengthen your claim and protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Get medical attention promptly, even if injuries appear minor, as some may worsen over time.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Obtain witness contact information and police accident reports if available.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Be cautious with your words at the scene and when speaking to insurance companies. Never admit fault, as this can impact your claim.
- Consult a Lawyer: Contact an experienced Nashville scooter accident injury lawyer to evaluate your case, determine liability, and guide you through the legal process.
Why Choose Aubrey Givens & Associates for Your Scooter Accident Case?
At Aubrey Givens & Associates PLLC, we understand the challenges scooter accident victims face and are committed to providing compassionate, results-driven representation. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Proven Track Record: We have extensive experience in personal injury cases, including complex scooter accident claims.
- Client-Focused Approach: We tailor our legal strategies to meet the unique needs of each client, keeping you informed and involved throughout the process.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay us if we win your case.
With our firm by your side, you can feel confident knowing we will fight tirelessly for the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Nashville Scooter Accident Injury Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident in Nashville, don’t wait to seek the legal help you need. At Aubrey Givens & Associates PLLC, our experienced Nashville scooter accident injury lawyers are ready to assist you in pursuing justice and compensation. We understand the emotional and financial toll of scooter accidents and are dedicated to helping you move forward.
Contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scooter Accident Claims
How long do I have to file a claim in Tennessee?
Tennessee law sets a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This means you must file your claim within one year of the accident to seek compensation.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Tennessee follows comparative fault laws, so as long as you are less than 50% at fault, you can recover compensation. However, your award will be reduced based on your degree of fault.
Do I need a lawyer for a scooter accident injury?
While it’s possible to handle a claim on your own, having a lawyer significantly improves your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. A lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
