E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents in Houston

Our attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve

Electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters) have become popular in Houston and other major cities throughout the U.S. They can be a fun way to get around, but they are vulnerable out on the road. It only takes one negligent driver to cause a car accident that leaves operators injured. And because they have no protection in a crash, these injuries can be quite serious.

The e-bike and e-scooter accident lawyers at Smith & Hassler know that a crash can affect victims physically, emotionally, and financially. They understand the challenges and frustrations of dealing with insurance companies who try to minimize injuries to try to pay as little compensation as possible. That’s why they are determined to help clients fight back.

Both e-bikes and e-scooters are equipped with motors to help operators move faster, and just about anyone can rent one. The law in Texas allows you to ride e-bikes on the road—and also e-scooters if the speed limit is at or below 35 mph.

But riding an e-bike or e-scooter can be dangerous. To many motorists, these electric bikes and scooters are just annoying. Aggressive drivers may tailgate them or try to pass. Inattentive drivers often don’t even notice them, and the results can be devastating.

Hit by a car on an e-bike? Hit by a car on an e-scooter? You have rights.

An e-bike or e-scooter is no match for a passenger car weighing thousands of pounds. People riding electric scooters and electric bikes are hurt in:

• Dooring accidents – A driver of a parked car opens the door suddenly without checking for approaching e-bikes or e-scooters. The operator is unable to stop in time.
• Distracted driving accidents – A driver may be texting or talking on the phone. Some drivers are adjusting dashboard controls or reaching for something on the floor. They keep checking the road for cars but don’t see the e-bike or e-scooter just ahead.
• Intersection accidents – A driver makes a quick left turn, directly into the path of an e-bike or e-scooter coming from the other direction. Or a driver makes a quick right turn and does not check the rearview mirror for an e-bike or e-scooter behind the car.
• Speeding accidents – A driver operates above the speed limit and is unable to stop in time to prevent a collision with an e-bike or e-scooter up ahead.

If you were hit by a car on an electric bike or electric scooter and the accident was not your fault, you deserve financial compensation. Likewise, if you’re a pedestrian who was hit by a reckless e-bike or e-scooter operator, you have the right to seek compensation for your accident-related expenses.

But negligent drivers often deny doing anything wrong and refuse to accept responsibility. Insurance companies aren’t on your side and will use many different tactics to minimize your compensation.

An e-bike or e-scooter injury lawyer can hold negligent drivers accountable

Operators of electric bikes or scooters can suffer a wide range of injuries, from broken bones, and knee injuries to brain injuries and spinal cord injuries.

Victims may need imaging tests, lab tests, surgery, hospitalization, medication, physical therapy, home health equipment, and multiple follow-up appointments with doctors. They may miss time from work, resulting in a loss of income.

But after a crash, insurance companies will try to minimize your injuries. They may try to blame you for causing the accident. You may hear from an adjuster soon after the accident and may be offered a settlement. It can be tempting to accept their offer as medical bills start to add up. The problem is their offer will fall far short of covering the damages you suffered.

Insurance companies have lawyers looking out for their best interests. You need someone who will fight for you.

Put an experienced attorney on your side

Our attorneys are very familiar with insurance company tactics, and we don’t tolerate them. We get the insurance companies to take your case seriously. This starts by having our legal team investigate your crash to get the facts. We carefully review accident reports and medical records. We interview witnesses about what they saw. And if needed, we consult accident reconstruction experts and other specialists.

Our lawyers will deal with the insurance company on your behalf so you can focus on getting better. We have a long track record of getting results for the injured through negotiated settlements and jury verdicts.

If you were hit by a car on an electric bike or electric scooter, you need trusted legal advice. But don’t wait too long. The statute of limitations for taking legal action is two years from the date of your crash. That seems like plenty of time, but it’s important to start work on your case before evidence is lost and while the memories of witnesses are still fresh.

Having an electric bike or electric scooter accident lawyer on your side can make a big difference. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. You’ll get an honest and straightforward assessment of your case. You’ll get an overview of your legal options. And you’ll get answers to your questions.