E-scooter accidents are becoming more common in Houston, raising serious legal concerns as these electric vehicles spread across the city. From the historic Heights to the busy streets of Downtown, e-scooters offer a fast and flexible way to get around, but their popularity also brings new safety risks.
Many of these incidents involve collisions with cars, falls due to poorly maintained sidewalks, or unexpected interactions with others on the road. As injuries become more frequent, it is important to understand your legal rights and the steps to take following an accident.
If you have been injured in one of these incidents, a knowledgeable Houston personal injury lawyer can help you determine liability, guide you through the legal process, and work to secure the compensation you may be entitled to.
At AP Law Group, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims and providing the strong legal support they need. For a free consultation about your e-scooter accident claim, contact us at (713) 913-4627.
E-Scooters on Houston Streets: A Growing Trend
E-scooters are becoming a regular sight throughout Houston. Whether it’s a quick commute through Midtown or a scenic ride around Hermann Park, many Houstonians turn to e-scooters for their ease and accessibility. Popular services like Bird and Lime make it easy to rent one using a smartphone app, adding to their growing popularity across the city.
As use has increased, so have safety concerns. The rise of E-scooter accidents in Houston and their legal implications is gaining attention among public officials, health experts, and attorneys.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), injuries related to micromobility devices, including e-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards, rose 127 percent from 2017 to 2021, reaching more than 77,000 reported injuries. Deaths also climbed sharply during the same period, from 5 to 48.
Among all micromobility devices, e-scooters saw the biggest jump in injury rates during that time. The report also found that 56 percent of e-scooter-related emergency room visits involved privately owned scooters, while 44 percent were linked to rental scooters.
These figures show that both individual and shared-use scooters carry significant safety risks, especially in busy urban environments like Houston where traffic, road conditions, and rider experience vary widely.
Understanding Texas E-Scooter Laws
In Texas, e-scooters are regulated under the Texas Transportation Code, Section 551.351. They are considered motor-assisted scooters, which means they must follow specific traffic rules, though not the same ones that apply to cars or motorcycles.
Under Texas law, scooters are allowed on roads where the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. Scooter riders are not allowed to exceed 20 miles per hour on public streets.
While helmets are not required for riders over 18 under Texas law, some rental companies or local ordinances may have their own helmet policies or recommendations. Wearing a helmet is strongly advised, as head injuries are among the most serious outcomes of e-scooter crashes.
Scooter riders must obey traffic signals and signs, yield to pedestrians, and avoid blocking sidewalks when parking. Local cities can also set their own rules.
In Houston, for example, the Shared Mobility Permit Program outlines where scooters can and cannot be ridden or parked. This program sets standards for scooter operations, including designated parking zones and sidewalk restrictions in high-traffic areas.
Since local rules may change, frequent riders should stay updated on current regulations before heading out.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents in Houston
E-scooter accidents in Houston can happen in many ways. Knowing the most common causes helps riders and others stay aware of risks and understand who may be responsible in a crash.
1. Driver Inattention
Many crashes happen because drivers fail to see scooter riders, especially when turning or switching lanes. Even when scooters follow traffic laws, they are smaller and easier to miss than cars or bikes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has found that visibility and failure to yield are major causes of crashes involving small vehicles.
2. Rider Mistakes
Some accidents result from risky rider behavior. Common mistakes include riding under the influence, ignoring traffic lights, riding with passengers, or using sidewalks where scooters are not allowed. It’s important to note that riding an e-scooter while intoxicated may not only affect your ability to recover compensation but can also result in criminal charges under Texas law.
3. Scooter Malfunctions
Sometimes the problem is the scooter itself. Defective brakes, broken handlebars, or battery failures can lead to crashes. According to JAMA Network Open, equipment problems are a known risk in shared e-scooter programs.
4. Poor Road Conditions
Uneven pavement, potholes, and loose gravel are common across Houston’s streets. Hitting these hazards can easily cause riders to lose control and fall. Missing bike lane markings or debris can also increase the chance of an accident.
After an accident, it is important to gather evidence and review details. You should also report the incident to the police and the e-scooter company as soon as possible. Prompt reporting helps preserve important evidence and ensures that your claim is properly documented. This may include police reports, photos of the scene, witness statements, or even security footage.
Who Is Liable in a Houston E-Scooter Accident?
Determining liability in an e-scooter crash is not always straightforward. In Texas, liability is governed by a rule known as modified comparative negligence.
Under Section 33.001 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, a person who is 50 percent or less at fault for an accident may recover damages. However, their compensation will be reduced based on their share of the blame. If they are more than 50 percent responsible, they may not recover anything.
The E-Scooter Rider
If the rider’s actions caused or contributed to the crash, they may be held responsible. This includes situations where the rider was intoxicated, ignored traffic laws, rode on prohibited sidewalks, or operated the scooter in an unsafe manner. Riders may also be responsible for injuries to pedestrians or other parties if their behavior created an unreasonable risk.
A Motor Vehicle Driver
If a driver caused the collision by speeding, texting, failing to yield, or driving aggressively, they may be held liable. In most cases, the driver’s auto insurance would be responsible for covering the injured rider’s damages.
The E-Scooter Company
If a crash is caused by a mechanical issue, like faulty brakes or a battery defect, the scooter company or manufacturer may be legally responsible. Companies like Lime or Bird are expected to maintain their fleets properly. While rental agreements often try to limit company liability, they do not always protect the company if negligence is involved.
A Pedestrian or Cyclist
In some cases, a pedestrian or another cyclist may be at fault. For example, if someone stepped into the scooter’s path without warning or behaved in a careless way, they may be held responsible for the resulting injuries.
The City of Houston or a Property Owner
If poor road conditions or sidewalk hazards played a role in the crash, the City of Houston or a private property owner might be liable. This includes situations involving potholes, uneven pavement, lack of signage, or poor lighting that contributed to the accident.
Gathering Evidence
Proving fault often requires strong documentation. Important evidence includes police reports, medical records, photographs of the scene, surveillance footage, and statements from witnesses. In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be brought in to analyze what happened. A Houston e-scooter accidents lawyer can help collect and present this information to support your claim.
Common Injuries from E-Scooter Accidents in Houston
Even at low speeds, e-scooter crashes can cause serious injuries. Riders do not have the same protections as people inside vehicles and are more exposed to impact from the road, cars, or stationary objects.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Head injuries are among the most serious outcomes, especially when riders do not wear helmets. These may include concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can lead to long-term problems with memory, coordination, or concentration.
- Broken Bones: Fractures in the wrists, arms, legs, and ankles are common. Riders often try to catch themselves during a fall, which can lead to broken bones or dislocated joints.
- Cuts, Abrasions, and Road Rash: When a rider is thrown from a scooter, they may slide across the pavement. These injuries may require stitches and can leave lasting scars.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls and collisions can also damage the spine. These injuries may cause nerve damage, chronic pain, or, in serious cases, partial or complete paralysis.
These types of injuries often require emergency care, ongoing treatment, and time away from work, which makes it especially important for victims to seek both medical attention and legal guidance as soon as possible.
Why Medical Attention and Legal Help Matter
Some injuries may not appear right away. For example, internal bleeding or a head injury may not show symptoms for hours or even days. It is important to seek medical care after an accident, even if you feel fine. Documenting your injuries early can help protect both your health and your legal case.
The Role of an E-Scooter Accidents Lawyer in Houston
Navigating the legal process after an e-scooter accident in Houston can be challenging. E-scooters fall into a unique legal category, and Texas’s comparative negligence laws, combined with the possibility that multiple parties may be responsible, can make these cases more complex. A Houston e-scooter accidents lawyer understands these issues and can guide you through each step of the process.
A lawyer can support you by:
Investigating the Accident
Your lawyer will gather key evidence such as photos, witness statements, police reports, and video footage to build your case.Their goal is to find out exactly what happened and who was responsible.
Identifying All Liable Parties
Sometimes more than one person or company is involved in an accident. Your lawyer will look at all possible sources of fault, including drivers, e-scooter companies, property owners, or even the city if unsafe road conditions played a role.
Reviewing Insurance Coverage
E-scooter accidents often involve several types of insurance, which can make the claims process complex. Your lawyer can help determine which policies may apply, such as auto, homeowners, renters, or commercial insurance, and explain how each might affect your claim. Insurance coverage for e-scooter accidents is still evolving, so having legal guidance is especially important.
Calculating Your Losses
Your lawyer will assess the total impact of the accident on your life. This can include medical bills, missed work, pain and discomfort, and other costs tied to the accident. They work to get a full picture of how the injury has affected your life.
Handling Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters may try to reduce or deny your claim. Your lawyer can take over all communication and work to negotiate a fair settlement that reflects what you’ve lost.
Going to Court if Needed
If a fair settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. They will present your case, explain your side to the judge and jury, and ask for fair compensation on your behalf.
Having a lawyer on your side means you do not have to handle the legal stress on your own. This gives you more time to focus on healing while your attorney manages the legal side of things.
Seeking Compensation for Your E-Scooter Accident Injuries
If you were hurt in an e-scooter accident in Houston and someone else’s actions caused it, you may be able to recover money for what you’ve lost. A personal injury claim can help you recover financially and move forward after the accident.
Here are some common types of compensation that may be available in an e-scooter accident case:
- Medical Expenses: This includes any treatment you received for your injuries. It can cover emergency care, ambulance rides, hospital stays, doctor visits, surgery, physical therapy, medications, and any medical equipment you may need during recovery.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries kept you from working, you can ask for payment to make up for that lost income. If the injury affects your ability to work in the future, you may also seek money for future lost earnings.
- Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation relates to the physical and emotional impact of the accident. It includes pain, stress, anxiety, and how the injury has affected your ability to enjoy life.
- Property Damage: If your e-scooter or other belongings were damaged in the crash, you can ask for the cost of repairs or replacement.
The amount you may recover depends on how serious your injuries are, how the accident has changed your daily life, and who was involved. A Houston e-scooter accidents lawyer can help you understand what your case may be worth and put together a strong claim for compensation.
FAQs About E-Scooter Accidents in Houston
What are the rules for riding e-scooters on Houston sidewalks?
Houston has specific rules for e-scooter use. Generally, e-scooters are meant for roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less, or in bike lanes. Many areas in Houston, especially in crowded downtown or commercial districts, restrict or prohibit e-scooters on sidewalks for pedestrian safety. It is always wise to check local ordinances for the specific area where you plan to ride.
Do I need a driver's license to operate an e-scooter in Houston?
Texas law does not require a driver’s license to operate a personal e-scooter, but most rental companies require riders to be at least 18 and have a valid driver’s license or ID. Some local ordinances may set a minimum age, often 16 or older.
What if an e-scooter malfunctioned and caused my accident in Houston?
If your e-scooter accident in Houston was caused by a defect or malfunction of the scooter itself, you might have a product liability claim against the e-scooter company or the manufacturer. This might include problems such as brake failure, battery issues, or other mechanical defects. Proving such a claim often requires a detailed investigation into the scooter's condition and maintenance history.
How does sharing fault affect my e-scooter accident claim in Texas?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found to be partly at fault for your e-scooter accident, your total compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault, your damages would be reduced by 20%. However, if you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, you may not recover any compensation.
What types of evidence are important after a Houston e-scooter collision?
After an e-scooter collision in Houston, important evidence includes photographs or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Witness contact information, police reports, and your medical records are also key. Keeping notes on your symptoms and how the injury impacts your daily routine can help strengthen your claim.
Injured in a Houston E-Scooter Accident? Get Legal Help and Pursue the Compensation You Need
As e-scooters become more common across Houston, they bring not only convenience but also new risks for riders and others on the road. If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident, you may be dealing with medical expenses, time away from work, and the pain of recovery. Understanding your legal rights and knowing where to turn for help can feel overwhelming.
At AP Law Group, we understand the difficulties you may be facing. Our team is here to offer clear legal advice and strong representation throughout your case. We are committed to helping you move forward, whether that means negotiating a fair settlement or going to court to protect your interests.
Taking action now can help you secure the financial support you need to focus on your recovery. To speak with someone about your options, contact AP Law Group for a free consultation at (713) 913-4627.