Electric Scooters Accidents – Miami Lawyer Shares Insight for Safe Riding
Insights on Electric Scooter Use in Florida
Electric scooters have taken Miami and other trendy cities in the United States by storm, offering a practical and enjoyable mode of transportation. There have also been scooter rental companies like Lime putting people on scooters along busy avenues and streets. Sadly, the surge in popularity of electric scooters has given rise to an alarming increase in accidents involving them. In this article, the Perazzo Law Firm provides valuable insights into electric scooter accidents and the changing regulations surrounding them in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
The Rise and Risk of Electric Scooters: Electric scooters have become a popular choice for both locals and tourists in Miami due to their affordability, ease of use, and lack of licensing or insurance requirements. While they offer convenience, they have also presented silent but significant dangers on the streets. Riders often abandon scooters carelessly after use, reflecting a sense of negligence in their operation. This behavior poses a threat to pedestrians, motorists, and other scooter riders. Additionally, the presence of these scooters can clutter sidewalks, obstruct handicap ramps, and contribute to accidents.
Changing Rules and Regulations: Fortunately, Florida is in the process of updating rules and regulations concerning electric scooters and motorized skateboards. The changes aim to improve safety and address the challenges posed by these popular vehicles. The Perazzo Law Firm shares some crucial legal facts based on the type of electric scooter:
Legal Facts for Scooters with a Seat or Saddle:
- Considered street legal.
- Operators must possess a license.
- These scooters must be titled and bear a license plate.
- Not permitted on Florida highways.
- Operators aged 16 and above are not required to wear a helmet.
- Operators must be at least 16 and have a driver’s license to ride on streets.
- No insurance is required to operate a scooter.
Legal Facts for Scooters without a Seat or Saddle:
- Not considered street legal.
- Cannot be operated on highways and sidewalks.
- Operators aged 16 and older are not legally obligated to wear a helmet.
- Operators must have a license.
- No insurance is required to operate a scooter.
Legal Facts for Motorized Bicycles:
- Cannot be ridden on public roads or sidewalks.
- Riders must be at least 16 to operate a motorized bike.
- No driver’s license is needed.
- Having insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended.
- There is no official helmet law for riders.
Safety Precautions and Insurance Recommendations: Perazzo Law recommends that anyone planning to use a moped or scooter, whether fuel or electrically powered, carry minimum PIP insurance to protect them in case of an accident. Insurance costs for these vehicles may range from $200 to $1,000 annually depending on coverage. Additionally, motorists are advised to purchase uninsured motorist coverage to safeguard themselves in the event of an accident involving an uninsured moped or scooter driver.
Concerns with Electric Scooter Companies: Lime and Bird, two pioneering electric scooter companies, have implemented scooters in various U.S. cities. However, these companies provide no insurance, helmets, or safety measures to prevent or address personal injuries resulting from accidents. Due to the changing legal landscape, they have withdrawn their services from Miami until legislation clarifies their legal status.
Perazzo Law: Advocates for Accident Victims: The Perazzo Law Firm is a dedicated Miami car accident lawyer, committed to helping individuals and families who have suffered injuries due to the negligence of others. With a deep understanding of the emotional and physical toll accidents can take, their firm provides valuable legal support to those in need.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information shared in our blog has not been independently verified, and the photos used are for illustrative purposes and may not depict actual events. Inaccuracies, if found, should be brought to our attention for correction.
If you, a friend, or a relative have been involved in a scooter accident resulting in injuries or losses, consider contacting the Perazzo Law Firm for a free initial consultation, with zero out-of-pocket fees to clients.
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