Georgia Injury Lawyers Blog
Electric scooters have become a very popular form of transportation in cities like Atlanta. Their low cost, fuel efficiency, and ease of use give riders a fun and affordable alternative to get around the city.
Unfortunately, the increased prevalence of scooters has also led to dangerous scooter accidents. These accidents can lead to riders suffering serious injuries in the event of a collision caused by a negligent driver. If you or a loved one has been in a scooter accident, you should contact an Atlanta personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Liability for Scooter Accidents
A recent survey from Consumer Reports found that eight people have died and at least 1,500 have been injured in scooter accidents in the United States since 2017. Many of these accidents are the result of a driver’s negligence. When a driver is careless and collides with a scooter rider, they can be held liable for the rider’s damages.
Some examples of irresponsible behavior by drivers that cause scooter accidents include:
- Speeding
- Not checking blind spots
- Following too closely
- Changing lanes without using turn signals
- Driving while intoxicated (DUI)
- Distracted driving
- Driving drowsy
- Running red lights
When it comes to auto insurance claims, Georgia is an at-fault state. This means that before the driver’s insurance company will pay out a claim, you need to prove that the driver was responsible for your scooter accident.
Evidence to Prove Liability
In a personal injury lawsuit, the plaintiff (injured party) has the burden of proof. The burden of proof requires that you demonstrate that the defendant was negligent and that their negligence was the cause of the accident and its resulting damages. You must establish this using clear and convincing evidence, which can include:
- Photographs from the accident scene
- Video/surveillance footage
- Police reports
- Witness accounts
- Expert testimony
- Accident reconstruction
A personal injury lawyer can help you with the investigation of your claim. Your attorney can preserve or gather evidence and craft a convincing case on your behalf. If you prevail in court, you could recover compensation for your damages.
Scooter Accident Damages
It’s critical to work with a personal injury lawyer for your case, especially if you’ve suffered serious injuries. With so much at stake, you need to receive the maximum amount of compensation. There is a wide range of damages that can be recovered in a scooter accident case, including:
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Legal expenses
- Punitive damages
Punitive damages can be recovered in addition to compensatory damages in limited circumstances. A judge may award punitive damages if they believe the driver was grossly negligent, had a wanton disregard for others, or had an intent to commit harm or malice.
Call Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyers Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
Scooter accidents can result in serious injuries. Fortunately, you can recover compensation if your accident was caused by a driver’s negligence. To learn more, call us today at 888-474-9616 or contact us online.