Their convenience and affordable cost make electric scooters wildly popular in urban areas in the US, but sharing the road raises concerns about how they are treated by the law. Under the Maryland Transportation Code, electric scooters are defined similarly to bicycles. This means they are subject to the same laws and regulations as bicycles.
In addition, including e-scooters under traffic regulations does affect liability in a crash. This is good news if you were recently involved in one, and it is wise to get help from an e-scooter accident attorney in Baltimore County. Some background also explains whether you can sue over an e-scooter accident in Maryland.
Overview of Maryland Laws on E-Scooter Accidents
In Maryland, electric scooters (e-scooters) are subject to specific regulations designed to promote safety for riders and pedestrians. Maryland law classifies e-scooters as “low-speed vehicles,” which means they must adhere to traffic laws similar to bicycles. Some key points include:
- Riders are generally required to use bike lanes where available.
- Electric scooters are prohibited from riding on sidewalks in business districts.
- Maryland requires riders under the age of 16 to wear helmets.
- E-scooters are not permitted on roads with speed limits exceeding 30 miles per hour unless a bike lane is present.
These laws help establish expectations for e-scooter use, but they also form the foundation for determining liability when accidents occur.
Proving Liability in a Maryland E-Scooter Accident Lawsuit
Proving liability in an e-scooter accident in Maryland often requires demonstrating that another party’s negligence caused the injuries. Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care, leading to harm. For instance, a motorist might be at fault if they failed to yield to an e-scooter rider at an intersection.
Various types of evidence can help establish fault, such as:
- Pictures and video of the scene
- Eyewitness statements
- Traffic camera footage
- Police reports
Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning that if the injured party is found even partially at fault for the accident, they cannot recover damages. This makes it essential to present strong evidence and build a compelling case.
Damages You Can Recover After an E-Scooter Accident in Maryland
Victims of e-scooter accidents in Maryland may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, while non-economic damages cover pain and suffering or emotional distress.
In severe cases where injuries result in long-term disability, victims may also pursue compensation for future medical expenses and loss of earning capacity. Calculating damages accurately requires thorough documentation, such as medical records and proof of income loss.
Contact a Maryland E-Scooter Lawyer to Learn More
It is possible to sue after an e-scooter crash, but legal help is crucial for recovering fair compensation. The claims process can be complex, involving Maryland traffic laws, evidence collection, and strict deadlines. At the Law Offices of Michael A. Freedman, we have extensive experience handling personal injury claims, so we’re ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Visit our website or call 410.363.6848 to schedule your free consultation today.