The Bird and Lime scooters have made their way into the news yet again after two wrecks occurred in downtown Nashville involving vehicles.
When Lime and Bird first introduced their scooters to the public, many grew worried over the dangers associated with riding the electric scooter and some even fought to have them banned. While the companies managed to sustain and provide individuals with an alternative form of transportation for months, they have continued to receive criticism as more and more riders suffer from serious injuries in the accidents they are involved in. Nashville Public Radio recently reported that there have been some riders who have suffered brain trauma that was so severe that they would never be the same again. And the physicians at Vanderbilt Medical Trauma ICU have seen their fair share of injuries as well.
The source highlighted that some victims have come into the hospital with broken wrists while others suffered injuries to their face. Although the companies have issued statements regarding safety and have even provided the public with a set of safety tips which can be viewed on their website to prove they are committed to rider safety, Oscar Guillamondegui, who is the director at Vanderbilt’s ICU believes the company is “trying to cover their liability backside in the meantime” And if this is true, it may only make it more difficult for the companies to get on the good side of lawmakers.
The fact is, while Bird encourages riders to wear a helmet among other things and Lime shares tips on how to ride safely, Guillamondegui says that “scooter companies know most riders won’t wear a helmet.” And should a rider suffer an injury or engage in an accident, the company may even be free from being held liable for their injuries. Here’s why.
According to the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance, although “most scooter rental services carry liability insurance that is expected to protect motorists [who suffer an injury] or [cover] vehicle damage in [the event of] an accident involving their scooters,” they “do not provide coverage for the scooter operators.” Now, “unless the scooter rental company’s policy indicates otherwise, a scooter operator injured in an accident is reliant on their health insurance for any injuries sustained.” Perhaps this is one of the reasons why the company has gained so many critics since they first launched their scooters.
So, what does this mean for riders who engage in a wreck while riding a Lime or Bird scooter?
Basically, it means that there is a strong chance that a Bird or Lime scooter accident victim will need to file a claim through their own health insurance carrier if they want their visit with a physician to be covered. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that Lime or Bird is let off the hook in terms of liability. You see, if you engage in an accident while riding an electric scooter, you may still be able to sue the company or even pursue the other party in the event the wreck involved someone else. And if you are represented by a dedicated and aggressive TN personal injury lawyer, then you may actually stand a chance at winning your case.
Therefore, if you were involved in a wreck while riding an electric scooter in Nashville, TN and need to speak with a lawyer who can help you understand what your legal rights are, contact the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. today. We will gladly explain what rights you have, what forms of action you are permitted to take, and even help you follow the necessary steps to help you recover the compensation you are entitled to receive. Contact us today to learn more.
You can reach the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. at
7104 Peach Court
Brentwood, TN 37027
Phone- 615-251-0005
Fax- 615-370-8447
