E-Scooter Crashes & Sidewalk Laws

Electric scooters (e-scooters) have become a popular and convenient way to navigate New York City streets. They’re eco-friendly, inexpensive, and easy to park. But with their rise in popularity, accidents involving electric scooters have surged—leading to serious injuries for both e-scooter riders and pedestrians.

Because New York law treats e-scooters differently from motor vehicles, determining liability and securing compensation after a crash can be confusing. Who’s at fault if an e-scooter collides with a pedestrian? Can injured riders recover medical expenses under standard auto insurance policies or personal injury protection (PIP)? What about crashes involving e-bikes or mechanical failures?

At Hill & Moin LLP, our New York City personal injury attorneys have helped countless injured riders and pedestrians understand their legal rights after e-scooter accidents. We know how quickly an enjoyable ride can turn into a life-altering event—and we’re here to help.

Call (212) 668-6000 today for a free consultation if you’ve been injured in an e-scooter crash anywhere in NYC.

The Growing Popularity—and Risks—of E-Scooters in New York City

Since New York City officially legalized electric scooters and e-bikes in 2020, riders have embraced them as a fast alternative to public transit. You’ll see them zipping through bike lanes in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, or available for rent through programs like Citi Bike or Lime.

But as e-scooter users have multiplied, so have collisions. The NYC Department of Transportation reported hundreds of accidents involving electric scooters in the past year alone, many resulting in serious injury or death.

Common contributing factors include:

• Riders traveling faster than posted speed limits

• Scooters operating on sidewalks, violating NYC traffic laws

• Distracted or negligent drivers of motor vehicles failing to share the road
• Uneven pavement or poor infrastructure
• Mechanical failures such as faulty brakes or defective batteries
• Lack of protective gear, particularly helmets

While e-scooters are legal in New York, many local regulations govern where and how they may operate. Violating these rules can affect fault and eligibility for compensation after a scooter accident.

NYC Laws on Riding E-Scooters and Sidewalk Restrictions

Under New York law, e-scooters are defined as devices with an electric motor and human power capability, with a maximum speed of 20 mph. You do not need a driver’s license to ride one, but there are strict traffic regulations riders must follow.

Where You Can Legally Ride

E-scooters may be operated:

• In bike lanes or on vehicle lanes with speed limits under 30 mph
• On New York City streets where motor vehicles travel
• In designated shared mobility zones

Where You Cannot Ride

Riding on sidewalks is illegal. According to NYC traffic laws, e-scooters are considered vehicles, and sidewalks are reserved for pedestrians. Violators may face fines or penalties for a first or repeat offense, especially if a crash occurs.

If a rider injures a pedestrian while unlawfully using a scooter on a sidewalk, the rider can be held liable for the pedestrian’s injuries and medical bills.

Required Safety Equipment

Riders must use headlights and taillights at night and are strongly encouraged to wear helmets. Riders under 18 are required by law to wear one.

Common E-Scooter Accidents and Injuries in NYC

Whether caused by negligent drivers, road defects, or reckless scooter operation, e-scooter incidents can lead to devastating injuries. Common scenarios include:

• Collisions between e-scooters and cars making turns or lane changes
• E-bike crashes or e-scooter accidents in bike lanes with faster traffic
• Pedestrians struck on sidewalks by scooter riders

• Riders thrown due to uneven pavement or faulty brakes

Typical Injuries After E-Scooter Accidents

Because riders have minimal protection, even a minor scooter crash can result in:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries

• Severe injuries such as internal bleeding or spinal cord trauma

• Road rash and abrasions requiring skin grafts
• Emotional distress or post-traumatic stress

If you’re injured, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention and document all medical bills, lost wages, and treatment details. These records are critical when filing a personal injury claim or negotiating with insurance companies.

Who Can Be Held Liable After an E-Scooter Accident?

Determining liability after an e-scooter accident in New York City depends on the specific circumstances. Several parties may share responsibility, including:

1. The E-Scooter Rider

If a rider fails to follow traffic signals, exceeds speed limits, or rides on sidewalks, they may be found negligent. When an injured pedestrian files a personal injury lawsuit, the rider’s insurance coverage—if any—may be examined.

However, most standard auto insurance policies do not cover e-scooter accidents, leaving many riders personally liable for damages.

2. A Negligent Driver

Many e-scooter accidents involve collisions with motor vehicles. If a car driver causes a crash by texting, turning without signaling, or speeding, that driver may be responsible for the rider’s injuries. Victims can seek compensation through the driver’s liability insurance.

3. The Scooter Rental Company

When defective equipment—such as faulty brakes or a dead battery—contributes to an accident, the rental company or manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws. Rental companies must properly maintain and inspect scooters before they’re deployed.

4. The City or Property Owner

If the crash occurred due to a hazardous sidewalk or uneven pavement, a government agency or property owner responsible for maintenance may bear partial fault.

Insurance Coverage and Compensation Challenges

One of the most confusing aspects of e-scooter accidents in New York is how insurance coverage works.

E-Scooter Riders Are Often Uninsured

Unlike cars, scooters are not required to carry liability insurance. Riders injured in a collision may not have access to personal injury protection (PIP) under the no-fault system, since scooters are not classified as motor vehicles.

Injured Riders May Still Recover Compensation

Despite this, injured riders may still recover compensation by:

• Filing a personal injury lawsuit against a negligent driver

• Proving that a mechanical failure or defective product caused the crash
• Demonstrating else’s negligence, such as unsafe road conditions or failure to maintain infrastructure

An experienced NYC personal injury attorney can evaluate your options and identify every potentially liable party.

Pedestrian Rights After an E-Scooter Accident

If you were walking and hit by an e-scooter, you have rights under New York law. Pedestrians injured by e-scooter riders can file claims for:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage (such as broken phones or glasses)

Because e-scooter riders rarely have insurance, pedestrians often rely on their own health insurance or may pursue compensation through the scooter company or other negligent parties.

If your injuries meet the serious injury threshold, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court.

Comparative Fault in New York

New York follows a comparative fault rule, which means multiple parties can share responsibility for an accident. Even if you were partially at fault—such as crossing outside a crosswalk or riding slightly above posted speed limits—you can still recover damages, reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but found 20 % at fault, you’d still receive $80,000. An experienced lawyer can help minimize your share of liability and maximize your recovery.

Steps to Take After an E-Scooter Crash in NYC

If you’re involved in an e-scooter crash—whether as a rider or pedestrian—take these steps to protect your rights:

1. Call 911 and request emergency assistance.
2. Exchange information with all parties involved, including the scooter’s license plate or ID number.
3. Take photos of the scene, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
4. Collect witness statements if anyone saw the crash.
5. Seek medical treatment immediately to document your condition.
6. Contact an attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters or company representatives.

At Hill & Moin LLP, our team will handle every detail of your case, from obtaining police reports and maintenance records to proving negligence.

How Hill & Moin LLP Can Help After an E-Scooter Accident

E-scooter crashes often involve multiple defendants, limited insurance coverage, and complex questions of liability. Our attorneys bring the experience and tenacity needed to secure maximum compensation for injured riders and pedestrians.

When you work with Hill & Moin, you receive:

• A proven track record of successful personal injury claims in New York City

• Detailed investigation of traffic laws and accident causes
• Access to medical professionals and experts who can testify about your injuries
• Skilled negotiation with insurance companies for fair settlements
• Representation on a contingency fee basis—you pay no attorney fees unless we win

Whether your case involves e-scooters, e-bikes, or motor vehicles, we’ll help you pursue compensation for every loss you’ve suffered.

Preventing E-Scooter Accidents: Safety Tips for NYC Riders

While the law offers protection, prevention is always best. Follow these tips to stay safe:

• Wear helmets and appropriate protective gear.
• Ride only in designated bike lanes.
• Observe all traffic signals and posted speed limits.
• Never operate a scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Avoid sidewalks—stick to New York City streets where scooters are permitted.
• Check for mechanical failures before each ride.

By understanding NYC traffic laws and practicing safe riding habits, you can help reduce accidents and keep everyone on the road safer.

Contact Hill & Moin LLP for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in an electric scooter accident in New York City, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Whether you were a rider, pedestrian, or another road user, our team can help you navigate the legal process, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation you deserve.

Call (212) 668-6000 today or contact us online for a free consultation.
At Hill & Moin LLP, we treat our clients like family—and we’ll fight for your rights every step of the way.