Dallas E-Scooter Accidents: Essential Guide to Personal Injury Claims
December 25, 2023
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Dallas e-scooter accidents and personal injury claims.
Here’s an overview of the article:
- Key Takeaways
- History of E-Scooters in Dallas
- 2018: E-Scooters Introduced in Dallas
- 2020: Dallas Bans E-Scooters Over Safety Concerns
- 2023: E-Scooters Return to Dallas
- Dallas Dockless E-Scooter Companies
- Dallas E-Scooter Safety Rules and Regulations
- Types of E-Scooter Accidents
- E-Scooter Accidents Involving Cars and Trucks
- E-Scooter Accidents Involving Pedestrians
- Accidents Caused by E-Scooter Malfunction
- Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents in Dallas
- Common Injuries in E-Scooter Accidents
- Parties Who May Be Responsible for E-Scooter Accidents
- Determining the At-Fault Party After an E-Scooter Accident
- Lawsuits Against E-Scooter Companies in Texas
- Key Evidence in an E-Scooter Accident Personal Injury Claim
- Photos or Videos
- Witness Statements
- Police Accident Report
- App Ride Data
- Medical Records
- Documents and Data from E-Scooter Company
- Steps to Take After An E-Scooter Accident
- Recoverable Damages for Personal Injuries from an E-Scooter Accident
- Potential Sources of Compensation After an E-Scooter Accident
- Comparing Lime, Bird, & Superpedestrian’s Terms of Service
- E-Scooter Accident FAQs
- Where am I legally allowed to ride an e-scooter in Dallas?
- What should I do directly after an e-scooter accident?
- Is helmet use mandatory for e-scooter riders in Dallas?
- Are there any penalties for improper e-scooter use in Dallas?
- Can I ride an e-scooter at night in Dallas?
- What steps has Dallas taken to improve e-scooter safety?
- Where are the electric scooter Slow-Ride Zones in Dallas?
- Can I ride an e-scooter on Dallas sidewalks?
- Are there restrictions on when I can use a dockless e-scooter in Dallas?
- Do I have to wear a helmet when riding e-scooters in Dallas?
- How does insurance factor into e-scooter accidents in Dallas?
- Source Links
Key Takeaways
- Updated Dallas E-Scooter Laws: Emphasizes recent changes and safety requirements.
- Importance of Legal Representation: Stresses the need for a lawyer experienced in e-scooter accidents.
- Causes of E-Scooter Accidents: Details common causes like road hazards and vehicle collisions.
- Injury Types: Describes typical injuries such as fractures and head trauma.
- Identifying Responsible Parties: Discusses how to determine liability in e-scooter accidents.
- Essential Evidence for Claims: Highlights key evidence like medical records and witness statements.
- Immediate Actions Post-Accident: Advises on steps to take immediately after an accident for legal purposes.
- Types of Recoverable Damages: Outlines possible compensations, including medical expenses and lost wages.
History of E-Scooters in Dallas
As an e-scooter accident attorney who’s been closely monitoring the trajectory of micro-mobility in Texas, I’ve seen the burgeoning growth of this new mode of transport.
E-scooters sprang into the Dallas scene in 2018, inviting residents and visitors alike to zip through the city with ease. Their introduction heralded a futuristic shift in urban mobility, but it also brought forth challenges that needed to be addressed to ensure safety and order in our community.
With electric scooter accidents in Dallas on the rise, the Dallas Department of Transportation had to weigh in, leading to a temporary halt on the e-scooter system to reassess the situation. It wasn’t a decision made lightly, but as a result, we saw a three-year period of intense reflection and planning to enhance the e-scooter experience citywide.
2018: E-Scooters Introduced in Dallas
The advent of e-scooters in Dallas marked a promising expansion in transportation options. Streets and pathways began to bustle with the energy of riders enjoying innovative, clean, and efficient travel. However, with this novel introduction came the necessity for riders and lawmakers alike to adapt to a shifting transportation landscape.
2020: Dallas Bans E-Scooters Over Safety Concerns
The safety of Dallas’ residents is paramount, and when concerns regarding e-scooter-related incidents started to escalate, the city took decisive action. The temporary ban reflected a commitment to addressing the underlying issues and served as a crucial reset to strategize better infrastructure and regulations for these vehicles.
2023: E-Scooters Return to Dallas
In 2023, Dallas witnessed the return of e-scooters, backed by new and revised regulations aimed at mitigating previous concerns. My aim is to help clients navigate the complexities of Dallas e-scooter accident claims while promoting safer and more responsible e-scooter usage within the city’s vibrant landscape.
An in-depth understanding of the history and current state of e-scooter usage in Dallas is instrumental for anyone looking to pursue electric scooter accidents in Dallas claims. As regulations evolve and the cityscape adapts, staying informed is key to both safe riding and legal preparedness should accidents occur.
Dallas Dockless E-Scooter Companies
City of Dallas gave three dockless scooter companies permits to operate in 2023. As we enter the 2023 permit cycle for shared dockless vehicle services in Dallas, let me introduce you to the primary vendors operating in the city. Navigating the terrain of Dallas, patrons can select from a trio of established operators offering e-scooters that are vibrant in both color and functionality. Each has been given the opportunity to deploy a maximum of 500 e-scooters, a number that can increase by meeting specific city benchmarks.
Beyond the contrast in aesthetic and design, Lime, Bird, and Superpedestrian stand poised to provide service compliance and customer satisfaction while closely following Dallas’s strict e-scooter guidelines and regulations.
Lime Scooters
Associated with their recognizable green and white color scheme, Lime’s e-scooters are a common sight around Dallas.
Yet, as with any mechanical device, the potential for a lime accident remains. Should an occurrence arise, rest assured Lime is committed to responsive customer service to address any incident or query from the riders.
Bird Scooters
Bird e-scooters, known for their blue and silver appearance, echo Lime’s commitment to customer safety and satisfaction. Nonetheless, bird accidents involving their e-scooters aren’t unheard of in Dallas. Hence, Bird has structured their services to be easily accessible and user-friendly, ensuring swift assistance for their clientele.
Superpedestrian Link Scooters
Superpedestrian, with their gray and yellow Link e-scooters, completes the trio of e-scooter vendors with permits to operate in Dallas. While they are the freshest face among the trio, their dedication to rider safety and adherence to city regulations is just as steadfast, ensuring a responsible e-scooter experience for Dallas residents and visitors alike.
As a regular on Dallas streets, I advocate for the conscious use of these micro-mobility options. While e-scooters offer a swift and eco-friendly mode of transportation, Dallas e-scooter accidents can happen. Considering this, the city’s working group has been proactive in setting up clear channels for feedback and response – an initiative that enhances overall safety for both riders and pedestrians. Being cognizant of these details makes for a harmonious integration of e-scooters into our urban fabric.
Dallas E-Scooter Safety Rules and Regulations
In 2023, the City of Dallas adopted new rules and regulations on riding and parking electric scooters. These rules are designed to promote public safety. They include:
Dallas E-Scooter Rules of the Road
- Speed Limit: E-scooters have a city-wide speed limit of 20 MPH to ensure that everyone can navigate safely through the bustling streets. See Dallas City Code Sec. 28-41.1.1(g)(2)(A).
- Slow-Ride Zones: In designated Slow-Ride Zones, this limit is further reduced to 10 MPH, providing an extra buffer of safety in high-traffic areas. See Dallas City Code Sec. 28-41.1.1(a)(11).
- Helmets: Children driving e-scooters in public must wear a helmet. See Dallas City Code Sec. 28-41.1.1(g)(7).
- Night-Time Restriction: Riders are restricted to using e-scooters in Dallas between 5 am and 9 pm.
- Street Restrictions: Riders are prohibited from driving e-scooters on roads with speed limits above 35 MPH.
Dallas may fine riders who violate these rules up to $200. Dallas City Code Sec. 28-41.1.1(j).
Dallas E-Scooter Parking Rules
In Dallas, riders must park e-scooters in one of the following places:
- scooter or bicycle parking corrals;
- a bike rack;
- on the curb of a sidewalk that’s at least 8 feet wide (parked upright using the kickstand, facing the street), or
- in the landscaping or buffer zone between the sidewalk and the street (parked upright using the kickstand).
See Dallas City Code Sec. 28-41.1.1(i).
Dallas may fine riders who violate these parking rules $20.
It’s unclear how strictly Dallas will enforce these e-scooter regulations.
Types of E-Scooter Accidents
Here are some of the most common types of accidents involving e-scooters:
E-Scooter Accidents Involving Cars and Trucks
E-scooter accidents involving cars and trucks in Dallas have been rising with the growing popularity of these vehicles.
Tragic Examples of E-Scooter Accidents Involving Motor Vehicles
- Dallas Incident: In a tragic case reported by Texas Monthly, a 24 your old man was found dead in Dallas shortly after using a Lime scooter. It’s unclear whether the man was struck while riding his scooter or waiting for a Lyft to arrive.
- Austin Incident: A woman in Austin was hospitalized after a hit-and-run accident left her with a broken leg, a broken wrist, and fractures in her spine and skull.
- San Antonio Incident: A woman riding an electric scooter in downtown San Antonio was hospitalized after being hit by a car. Witnesses reported that she was speeding through an intersection without yielding to traffic or traffic lights.
- Fatal Hit-and-Run in Fort Collins: An e-scooter rider was killed in a hit-and-run crash in southwest Fort Collins. The rider, struck by a dark-colored SUV, suffered serious injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital. This tragic incident underscores the vulnerability of e-scooter riders in traffic and the severity of consequences when involved in collisions with larger vehicles.
- Chicago Incident: In a separate incident, both the driver and passenger of an e-scooter were critically injured following a collision with a vehicle on the Northwest Side of Chicago. Details on this specific case are sparse, but it highlights the potential for serious injury when e-scooters interact with larger vehicles in traffic.
Determining Fault in E-Scooter Collisions with Motor Vehicles
Determining who caused the collision in such incidents is crucial and depends on various factors:
- Traffic Rule Adherence: Whether the e-scooter rider or the vehicle driver was adhering to traffic rules is a key consideration.
- Right of Way: Establishing who had the right of way at the accident scene is critical.
The city’s prohibition of e-scooter usage on roads with a speed limit above 35 MPH and after 9 pm illustrates a strong commitment to e-scooter safety in Dallas.
E-Scooter Accidents Involving Pedestrians
According to a study of 3,331 emergency department patients who were injured in e-scooter accidents, 4.8% of them were pedestrians hit by an e-scooter.
When an e-scooter and a pedestrian collide, determining who caused the accident is crucial.
Factors for Determining Fault in Scooter-Pedestrian Collisions:
Here are some of the key factors for determining fault in a pedestrian-scooter collision:
- Speed Limit Compliance: E-scooters in Dallas are regulated to travel up to 15 mph. Exceeding this limit, especially in pedestrian areas, significantly increases accident risks.
- Right of Way: Establishing who had the right of way at the time of the accident is essential. Pedestrians typically have the right of way on sidewalks, but specific circumstances can vary.
- Other Circumstances: Factors like visibility, traffic signals, and whether the e-scooter rider adhered to traffic laws play a role.
E-Scooter Hit-and-Run Collisions
As one article notes, e-scooter hit-and-run collisions with pedestrians are becoming increasingly prevalent.
When an e-scooter rider hits a pedestrian and then leaves the scene, it creates significant challenges for the injured pedestrian. Identifying the rider for liability purposes becomes difficult, often leaving the pedestrian without a clear path to claim insurance or seek compensation.
Accidents Caused by E-Scooter Malfunction
One concerning issue is the occurrence of e-scooter accidents stemming from e-scooter malfunction.
E-scooters, as with any complex piece of machinery, can experience technical glitches that lead to unexpected complications such as sudden stops or a loss of control.
Such malfunctions can result in accidents that not only cause injury but also contribute to public apprehension regarding this mode of transportation.
As a result, it’s imperative that companies like Lime, Bird, and Superpedestrian adhere to stringent maintenance protocols. Regular maintenance schedules and adherence to recommended usage guidelines play crucial roles in the effort to prevent e-scooter malfunctions.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents in Dallas
E-scooter accidents in Dallas often result from a variety of factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for both riders and pedestrians to enhance safety. Here are some common causes:
- Rider Inexperience: Many e-scooter riders lack experience, which can lead to accidents. This includes not knowing how to navigate through traffic safely or handle the scooter in different road conditions.
- Speeding: E-scooters can reach speeds up to 15-25 mph. Riders often travel at high speeds, which increases the risk of accidents, especially in busy areas.
- Ignoring Traffic Rules: Riders not following traffic signals or signs, or riding on sidewalks where prohibited, can cause collisions with vehicles and pedestrians.
- Night Riding: Reduced visibility at night, coupled with the lack of required lighting on some scooters, increases the risk of accidents.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and other road hazards are significant causes of e-scooter accidents. Riders may lose control and crash.
- Alcohol Use: Operating an e-scooter under the influence of alcohol is a dangerous and common factor in accidents.
- Distraction: Riders distracted by phones or other devices can easily crash or collide with pedestrians and vehicles.
- Vehicle Interactions: Close encounters with cars and trucks, especially those not respecting the space of e-scooters on the road, often lead to accidents.
- Defective Equipment: Mechanical issues or defects with the e-scooter itself can cause riders to lose control.
By understanding and addressing these causes, riders can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
Common Injuries in E-Scooter Accidents
Injuries resulting from e-scooter collisions are often severe.
Unlike typical injuries from falling off a skateboard or bicycle, injuries from electric scooter crashes are frequently more traumatic and higher energy.
Dr. Alan Jones, An orthopedic surgeon’s take on the e-scooter craze
Amidst the various injuries associated with e-scooter incidents, head trauma stands out for its potential severity. Alarming statistics show that head or face impacts occur in a substantial number of e-scooter accidents.
Below is a detailed breakdown of these injury types and the frequency with which they present themselves in the aftermath of e-scooter incidents.
Injury Type | Frequency | Associated Risks |
---|---|---|
Head Trauma | High | Potential for long-term cognitive impact and fatality |
Upper Extremity Injuries | Very High | Risks include fractures, dislocations, and long-term mobility issues |
Lacerations and Contusions | High | Can lead to infection, scarring, and soft tissue damage |
Lower Extremity Injuries | Moderate | Possible fractures and sprains that can affect mobility |
Parties Who May Be Responsible for E-Scooter Accidents
When considering an e-scooter accident claim in Dallas, it is essential to identify all potentially responsible parties involved.
Determining the At-Fault Party After an E-Scooter Accident
There are a number of scenarios where an e-scooter rider may find themselves involved in an accident. They include:
- a collision with a car or truck due to the other driver’s negligence;
- a solo spill due to rider inexperience, road conditions, or unnoticed stationary objects;
- a collision involving a pedestrian.
The following table provides a rundown of the parties that may be responsible for an e-scooter accident:
Responsible Party | Potential Issues Leading to Accident | Examples |
---|---|---|
Rider | Careless or risky riding, ignoring rules of the road, improper parking, inexperience, road conditions, road hazards | Running a red light, driving over a pot hole or bump, driving too fast, driving on uneven pavement (e.g., sidewalk, cobblestone), driving on slippery road (e.g., rain, foliage) |
Motor Vehicle Driver | Not yielding right of way, distracted driving | Turning without signaling, texting while driving |
Pedestrian | Not yielding right of way, driving scooter on sidewalk | Driving scooter on busy sidewalk faster than the pedestrian foot traffic |
As discussed below, in most cases in Texas, e-scooter companies like Bird and Lime are not responsible for the harm that riders cause to others while using the scooters.
Lawsuits Against E-Scooter Companies in Texas
The following are summaries of lawsuits in which individuals in Texas have attempted to hold e-scooter companies responsible for injuries after an e-scooter accident:
Woodhouse v. Bird Rides, Inc.
- Defendant: Bird Rides, Inc.
- Key Facts: A hit-and-run driver struck the plaintiff while riding a Bird scooter on the sidewalk outside of a restaurant. The plaintiff sustained bodily injuries.
- Procedural History: The plaintiff sued Bird scooters. Bird filed a motion to dismiss her claims on various grounds.
- Claims and Theories: The plaintiff brought claims of negligence against Bird, alleging that Bird failed to control the driver, failed to warn its driver about the risk of harm to pedestrians, and negligently entrusting its scooter to a dangerous driver. Additionally, the plaintiff brought a products liability claim alleging that Bird instructed riders to use sidewalks in violation of a city ordinance prohibiting motor vehicles on sidewalks.
- Outcome: The court dismissed plaintiff’s negligence claims against Bird for several reasons.
- First, it held that an e-scooter company does not owe a duty to members of the public to control the conduct of its riders.
- Second, the court concluded that Bird did not owe a duty to warn the rider of local traffic laws or the risk of injury the scooters posed to pedestrians.
- Third, the court held that Bird was not required to perform background checks on riders before renting scooters to them.
- Finally, the court dismissed the plaintiff’s products liability failure-to-warn claim because her complaint did not explain how the safety instructions that Bird gave the rider were inadequate.
- Citation: Woodhouse v. Bird Rides, Inc., No. SA-20-CV-01113-XR (W.D. Tex. May 17, 2021).
Walker v. Neutron Holdings, Inc.
- Key Facts: The plaintiff downloaded the Lime app, which has a “sign-in wrap” agreement for its User Agreement.The sign-in page displays a link to Lime’s User Agreement and states: “I have read and agreed to Lime’s User Agreement.” Lime’s User Agreement includes an arbitration clause stating that “all disputes,” including “intentional tort or negligence” between a rider and Lime, “must be resolved exclusively by final and binding arbitration.” The plaintiff, after tapping “NEXT” on the sign-in screen, suffered a scooter accident due to an alleged software glitch, resulting in serious injuries.
- Procedural History: The plaintiff brought a negligence claim against Lime in a lawsuit. Lime removed the case to federal court and then asked the court to enforce the arbitration clause in the Lime App User Agreement.
- Question Presented: Did the plaintiff create a binding agreement to arbitrate her claims against Lime when she downloaded the Lime app and tapped the word “NEXT” on the sign-in page?
- Holding: Yes. The Court found that Lime’s sign-in wrap agreement gave users, including the plaintiff, reasonable notice that they were agreeing to the terms of the User Agreement—including the arbitration clause—by tapping “NEXT” on the app’s sign-in page.
Walker v. Neutron Holdings, Inc., No. 1:19-CV-574-RP (W.D. Tex. Feb. 11, 2020) (report and recommendation).
Key Evidence in an E-Scooter Accident Personal Injury Claim
E-scooter accident claims can hinge on the quality and comprehensiveness of the evidence presented.
The following types of evidence may help support your personal injury claim after an electric scooter accident:
Photos or Videos
Take photographs and videos of the area where the accident occurred, any obstructions, traffic signals, property damage, the position of the e-scooter and others involved after the collision, and any other relevant conditions at the scene of the accident.
Witness Statements
These first-hand accounts may bolster your claim by corroborating events or showcasing negligence. It’s important to interview witnesses promptly while their memories are fresh in order to capture all of the relevant details.
Police Accident Report
Police accident reports are vital evidence in e-scooter accidents as they provide details about the accident scene, names of the parties involved and their insurance information, statements from witnesses and involved parties, and the responding officer’s opinions about the cause of the accident and how it may have unfolded.
App Ride Data
E-scooter ride trip data from the app can be a crucial piece of evidence in a personal injury claim following an e-scooter accident. This data typically includes:
- route taken,
- speed, and
- time of the ride.
This information can help reconstruct the accident scenario, show whether the scooter was traveling within the speed limit, show any sudden changes in speed or direction, and indicate a potential malfunction or external interference.
Medical Records
These show the injuries you sustained in the accident and the medical treatment that you needed as a result. Medical records are indispensable in illustrating the extent and impact of your trauma resulting from an e-scooter accident.
Documents and Data from E-Scooter Company
The e-scooter companies possess a trove of information about each e-scooter in their fleets that may be helpful to your personal injury claim. This may include:
- maintenance and repair records,
- rider reviews and complaints, and
- the e-scooter’s incident history.
For example, Bird’s Trust and Safety Team collect information about rider complaints, collisions, injuries, hospitalizations, and citations. Bird disclosed the following incident data in a permit application:
Reports of any malfunction or defects could point to either manufacturer liability or service provider negligence.
Steps to Take After An E-Scooter Accident
In the unfortunate event that you’re injured in a Dallas e-scooter accident, there are several steps you can take now that will support your claim down the road:
Action | Purpose | Outcome |
---|---|---|
Seek Medical Attention | Document injuries and receive immediate care | Essential evidence for the claim and your health |
Report to Authorities | File an official accident report | Provides a reliable account for legal proceedings |
Collect Evidence | Photograph the scene, e-scooter, and gather witness information | Visual and testimonial proof to support your version of events |
Consult a Lawyer | Understand rights and legal options | Professional oversight to streamline the claims process |
The initial move should always be to seek medical attention, even if the injuries seem minor. Postponing or avoiding a medical check-up can not only adversely affect your health but can also undermine the credibility of any injury claims later on. Ensure that all injuries are adequately documented by healthcare professionals, as these records serve as vital evidence.
Moreover, it’s crucial to report the accident to the police and the e-scooter company at the earliest opportunity. The official report consolidates your version of events and may be used later in the claims process. For clients who aren’t familiar with this, I often assist with the complexities of such reporting to ensure nothing is overlooked.
At the scene, if possible, collect all relevant evidence such as photos of the area, the e-scooter, and any obstructions or hazards. Snapshots and videos can vividly capture the condition of the e-scooter and surroundings, which might illustrate contributing factors to the accident. Additionally, gather the contact information of any witnesses; their testimonies could be pivotal in substantiating the claim.
Gathering comprehensive evidence is a decisive factor in the success of an e-scooter accident claim. It is this evidence that speaks volumes about the circumstances leading to and following the Dallas e-scooter accident.
Lastly, consider consulting with a Dallas personal injury lawyer. Legal guidance can be incredibly beneficial in navigating the intricacies of insurance claims and potential litigation. A seasoned accident and injury attorney can offer invaluable advice and support throughout the claims process.
Recoverable Damages for Personal Injuries from an E-Scooter Accident
Injury claims arising from such accidents can encompass tangible and intangible losses. The physical harm and psychological anguish one experiences are not merely personal setbacks; they can translate into extensive financial burdens.
Individuals bringing a claim in Texas for bodily injuries sustained in an e-scooter accident may recover damages for past and future:
- medical expenses,
- pain and suffering,
- scarring or physical disfigurement,
- lost wages,
- loss of earning capacity, and
- loss of enjoyment of life.
Potential Sources of Compensation After an E-Scooter Accident
In the aftermath of a Dallas e-scooter accident, victims may find themselves facing mounting medical bills, loss of income, and other unforeseen expenses. As an e-scooter accident lawyer, I guide my clients through the complex web of potential compensation sources to ensure they can financially recover from their ordeal as fully as possible.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is often the first line of defense in covering medical expenses after an accident. It’s important to review your policy to understand what treatments and rehabilitative services are covered. In some cases, your health insurance may also cover other related expenses, such as transportation to medical appointments.
Auto Insurance Liability Coverage
If your accident involved a vehicle, the driver’s auto insurance liability coverage might compensate you for injuries and damages if the driver’s negligence caused the collision. Navigating these claims can be daunting, and an experienced Dallas e-scooter accident lawyer can be indispensable in negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
UM/UIM Coverage
In scenarios where the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, your own UM/UIM (uninsured/underinsured motorist) coverage may provide financial relief. This coverage is designed to protect you if the other party’s insurance is insufficient to cover the full extent of the damages suffered in a Dallas e-scooter accident.
Other Potential Sources
Additional sources of compensation may include the e-scooter company’s insurance if a defect or maintenance issue with the scooter contributed to the accident. It’s critical to document the circumstances surrounding the incident meticulously, as this information can be crucial in pursuing claims against corporate policies.
Ascertaining which sources are relevant to your situation is complex, and that’s why consulting with an adept e-scooter accident lawyer can be a game-changer in effectively pursuing Dallas e-scooter accident claims. My role is to dissect these layers and uncover all viable avenues to ensure that my clients receive the recompense they need to support their recovery journey.
Comparing Lime, Bird, & Superpedestrian’s Terms of Service
Before bringing a legal claim for injuries that you sustained in a Dallas e-scooter accident, it’s important to understand the terms in each company’s user agreement.
The following table compares some of the important provisions found in each Dallas e-scooter company’s terms of service and user agreements
Company | Release Provisions | Accident Reporting Requirements | Arbitration Clauses |
---|---|---|---|
Lime | Riders release Lime from liability, assuming risk and responsibility for e-scooter use. | Must report accident to Lime within 2 hours and file a report with the local police department within 24 hours. | Yes. Arbitration is mandatory and binding except for disputes filed in small claims courts. |
Bird | Riders release Bird from liability, assuming risk and responsibility for e-scooter use. | Must report accident with the local police department within 24 hours. | Yes. Arbitration is mandatory and binding. |
Superpedestrian | Riders release Superpedestrian from liability, assuming risk and responsibility for e-scooter use. | Must report accident to the company as soon as possible and file a report with the local police department within 24 hours. | Yes. Arbitration is mandatory and binding. |
E-Scooter Accident FAQs
When it comes to navigating the bustling streets of Dallas on an e-scooter, knowing the ins and outs of e-scooter safety in Dallas is crucial for a safe journey. As someone deeply entrenched in the micro-mobility revolution, I’ve compiled some essential FAQs to empower our community with knowledge and to help minimize the risk of Dallas e-scooter accidents.
Where am I legally allowed to ride an e-scooter in Dallas?
Riding e-scooters is permitted in most areas of Dallas except on sidewalks, trails, and roads with a speed limit over 35 MPH. These restrictions are in place as part of our commitment to e-scooter safety in Dallas.
What should I do directly after an e-scooter accident?
After ensuring your immediate safety, report the incident to the police and the e-scooter rental company. If injured, seek medical attention and document your injuries for potential claims.
Is helmet use mandatory for e-scooter riders in Dallas?
While not legally enforced for adults, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended to minimize head injuries in case of a fall or a collision.
Are there any penalties for improper e-scooter use in Dallas?
Yes, violations of e-scooter parking and riding regulations can result in fines. For instance, improperly parked e-scooters attract a $20 penalty.
Can I ride an e-scooter at night in Dallas?
E-scooters are available for use between 5 am and 9 pm. Operating an e-scooter outside these hours is against city regulations.
What steps has Dallas taken to improve e-scooter safety?
Dallas has introduced measures such as designated parking corrals, slow-ride zones, no-ride zones, and a city-wide speed limit to enhance safety for both riders and pedestrians.
The following map shows the different e-scooter zones and parking corrals in downtown Dallas:
What are designated “Slow-Ride Zones” in Dallas?
While riding an electric scooter in Dallas’s designated Slow-Ride Zones, riders must adhere to a speed limit of 10 miles per hour. It’s important for scooter users to exercise heightened caution in these areas, as they often have increased pedestrian activity.
Where are the electric scooter Slow-Ride Zones in Dallas?
The Dallas Department of Transportation has designated the following areas as Slow-Ride Zones for e-scooters:
West End District Slow Ride Zone
Victory Park District Slow Ride Zone
Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge Slow Ride Zone
Dallas Farmer’s Market Slow Ride Zone
Deep Ellum District Slow Ride Zone
Bishop Arts District Slow Ride Zone in Dallas
Can I ride an e-scooter on Dallas sidewalks?
No, riding e-scooters on Dallas sidewalks is prohibited to ensure pedestrian safety. Riders must follow the designated areas for e-scooter usage and adhere to all safety rules and regulations.
Are there restrictions on when I can use a dockless e-scooter in Dallas?
Yes. In Dallas, e-scooters can only be operated from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Do I have to wear a helmet when riding e-scooters in Dallas?
No. Adult riders are not required to wear a helmet while driving an e-scooter in Dallas. According to the Dallas City Code, however, children must wear a helmet while operating or riding an e-scooter while in the public right-of-way or in a public park or public plaza within the city.
How does insurance factor into e-scooter accidents in Dallas?
Insurance plays a significant role in e-scooter accidents. Potential sources of compensation after an accident include your own health insurance, the at-fault party’s auto insurance liability coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Discussing your case with an e-scooter accident lawyer can help navigate these options effectively.