Why Choose Us?
Nagel Rice has represented injured New Jersey residents for more than three decades, earning trust through results and client-first advocacy. Our attorneys understand the evolving laws surrounding electric scooters and how to build strong injury claims in this complex area.
- Over 30 years of representing injured New Jersey residents
- Proven results in high-value personal injury claims
- Free consultations and no fees unless we recover compensation
- Personalized legal guidance from start to finish
- Respected trial attorneys with statewide reach
What Is an E-Scooter Accident Claim in New Jersey?
An e-scooter accident claim is a personal injury case arising from a collision involving a low-speed electric scooter. These claims may involve cars, trucks, pedestrians, bicyclists, road hazards, or defective scooters. In New Jersey, injured riders can seek compensation if another party’s negligence contributed to the crash, even if fault is shared, as long as their responsibility does not exceed legal limits. E-scooter accident claims commonly arise from:
- Motor vehicle collisions with scooter riders
- Accidents caused by unsafe road conditions
- Crashes involving rented scooters from companies like Bird or Lime
- Incidents involving pedestrians or cyclists
- Mechanical or design defects in the scooter
Why Are New Jersey E-Scooter Laws So Confusing?
New Jersey e-scooter laws are complex because statewide rules interact with local municipal regulations. While the state defines low-speed electric scooters, cities and towns may impose additional restrictions on where and how scooters can be operated. This creates uncertainty for riders and complicates liability after an accident.
Under New Jersey law, a low-speed electric scooter generally includes:
- Handlebars and a standing floorboard
- An electric motor capable of propulsion with or without human assistance
Key legal factors that may affect an injury claim include:
- Where the scooter was being operated at the time of the crash
- Whether local ordinances permit sidewalk or roadway use
- The rider’s age and helmet compliance
- The scooter’s speed capability and condition
Because violations can reduce or impact compensation, speaking with an attorney after an accident is essential.
Where Are E-Scooters Allowed to Operate in New Jersey?
In general, New Jersey law allows electric scooters on certain streets, highways, and bicycle paths, while prohibiting use on unpaved trails and some state roads. However, municipalities may restrict scooter use further, especially on sidewalks or pedestrian-heavy areas.
E-scooter riders are typically required to:
- Obey all applicable traffic signals and bicycle laws
- Travel at speeds no greater than 19 mph
- Ride in the right lane unless preparing for a left turn
- Avoid bicycle and pedestrian lanes when prohibited
- Follow local rules on sidewalk riding and parking
Failure to comply with these rules may result in partial fault being assigned after an accident.
How Does Comparative Negligence Affect E-Scooter Accident Claims?
New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means an injured e-scooter rider can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50 percent responsible for the accident. Any compensation awarded is reduced by the rider’s percentage of fault.
For example:
- A $100,000 award reduced by 10 percent fault results in $90,000 recovered
Insurance companies often try to exaggerate rider fault by citing helmet use, riding location, or alleged ordinance violations. Legal representation helps counter these arguments with evidence and accurate legal analysis.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents
E-scooter crashes frequently occur due to the negligence of others rather than rider behavior. When rental scooters or defective components are involved, additional parties may be held accountable. Common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield or check blind spots
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Unsafe lane changes or dooring accidents
- Poorly maintained roads, potholes, or debris
- Defective brakes, throttles, or steering mechanisms
Injuries Commonly Sustained in E-Scooter Accidents
E-scooter riders have minimal physical protection, making injuries especially severe even at lower speeds. Depending on the circumstances, injuries may include:
- Bone fractures
- Road rash and deep lacerations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
What Compensation Is Available After an E-Scooter Accident?
Injured riders may be entitled to financial recovery for both economic and non-economic losses. In cases involving extreme recklessness, such as impaired driving, punitive damages may also be available. Depending on the case, compensation may include:
- Medical expenses and future treatment costs
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent impairment or scarring
Can Rental Companies or Manufacturers Be Held Liable?
Yes. If a defective scooter, a faulty brake system, or poor maintenance contributed to the accident, liability may extend beyond the driver involved. These cases often involve product liability principles and require thorough investigation. Claims may be brought against:
- Scooter rental companies
- Manufacturers or distributors
- Maintenance or servicing contractors
Contact Our New Jersey E-Scooter Accident Attorneys
Nagel Rice is prepared to handle every legal and insurance aspect of your e-scooter accident claim. We understand the technical regulations, liability issues, and defenses raised in these cases, and we work diligently to pursue the compensation our clients deserve. Contact us today to discuss your situation and protect your rights.
FAQs
Do I need a helmet to ride an e-scooter in New Jersey?
Riders age 17 or younger are generally required to wear an approved helmet. Helmet use can also impact liability arguments in an injury claim.
Can I recover compensation if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Under New Jersey’s modified comparative negligence rule, you may recover damages as long as your fault does not exceed 50 percent.
Who pays my medical bills after an e-scooter accident?
Medical bills may be covered through the at-fault party’s insurance, your own coverage, or other liable parties, depending on how the accident occurred.
Nagel Rice LLP helps their clients with their motor scooter accident claims throughout New Jersey including Bergen County, Essex County, Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Sussex County.