Los Angeles Scooter Collisions on Sidewalks – Who’s Responsible?

Understanding Liability in Los Angeles Sidewalk Scooter Accidents

Electric scooters are everywhere in Los Angeles, from downtown streets to neighborhood sidewalks. But when a rider is struck by a car exiting a driveway or parking lot, figuring out who’s at fault isn’t always simple. At Oaks Law Firm, our California scooter accident lawyers help injured riders understand their legal rights and fight for the compensation they deserve.

What Does the Law Say About Scooter Use on Sidewalks in California?

California law generally prohibits riding an electric scooter on the sidewalk, except when entering or exiting adjacent property. This means that if a rider is injured while traveling along the sidewalk, they may be found partially at fault for violating traffic laws.

However, that doesn’t let drivers off the hook. Motorists exiting private property still have a legal duty to yield to anyone using the sidewalk, including pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders.

Drivers Must Yield to Sidewalk Traffic

When leaving a driveway, alley, or parking lot, drivers are required to stop and look for others on the sidewalk. If a motorist fails to yield or pulls out too quickly, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries. Even when a scooter rider is found partially at fault, drivers often bear the greater share of legal responsibility.

Shared Fault and Comparative Negligence

California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning multiple parties can share fault. For example:

A rider unlawfully using the sidewalk could be assigned partial responsibility.
A distracted driver who failed to yield could hold the majority of the fault.

Even if you were partly responsible for the crash, you may still recover damages for medical bills, lost income, and other losses.

Common Injuries in Scooter–Sidewalk Collisions

Riders are vulnerable to direct impact and secondary falls. Common injuries include:

Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
Facial injuries and dental trauma
Fractures to the wrist, arm, collarbone, hip, or ankle
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and torn ligaments
Back and neck injuries, including herniated discs
Road rash and lacerations that may require wound care or surgery

Steps to Take After a Scooter-Sidewalk Accident

Taking the right steps after a collision can make a significant difference in your health and the outcome of your claim. If you’ve been hurt, make sure to:

Take Photos of the Scene: Document the vehicles, scooter, injuries, and the surrounding area.
Get Witness Information: Collect names and contact details from anyone who saw the crash.
File a Police Report: Create an official record to help establish fault.
Seek Medical Care: Even minor injuries can worsen over time; get checked by a doctor.
Preserve Documentation: Keep medical records, receipts, and all communications with insurance companies.
Call Oaks Law Firm: Our attorneys can review your case and guide you through the legal process.

Additional Factors That Can Affect Your Claim

Helmet Use: Adults aren’t legally required to wear a helmet, but doing so can strengthen your case. For minors, helmets are mandatory under California law.
Video Evidence: Dashcam footage, security cameras, or bystander videos can help prove fault.
Local Regulations: Some neighborhoods in Los Angeles have additional scooter rules; violations can affect liability.

Adults vs. Minors – How the Law Differs

For Minors (Under 18)

Helmet Requirement: Minors must wear a helmet. Failure to comply can impact the value of a claim.
Parental Liability: Parents may share responsibility if they allowed unsafe riding or ignored local restrictions.
Extended Deadlines: Minors typically have until their 20th birthday to file a claim, though starting sooner is always better.
School Zone Accidents: Crashes near schools often involve additional safety rules that can increase a driver’s liability.

For Adults (18 and Over)

Helmet Use Is Optional: Choosing to wear one can help protect you and support your claim.
Waivers and Rentals: Signing a waiver doesn’t always eliminate your right to compensation, especially if negligence or defective equipment played a role.
Comparative Fault: Even if you were riding on the sidewalk or ignoring traffic signals, you may still recover damages.

Special Considerations for Families

Medical Costs for Minors: Parents can claim reimbursement for medical expenses, while the injured child may recover damages for pain, suffering, and long-term effects.
Emotional Distress: If a parent witnesses their child’s injury, California law may allow additional claims for emotional trauma.
Public Entity Claims: If unsafe infrastructure contributed to the crash, such as broken sidewalks or poor signage, a claim against the city may be possible. These cases must be filed within six months of the incident.

Contact a Los Angeles Scooter Accident Lawyer at Oaks Law Firm Today!

Scooter accidents on sidewalks often involve complex liability questions. Don’t try to handle your claim alone. The experienced attorneys at Oaks Law Firm can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call (877) 539-5366 or contact us online today for a free consultation. There’s no cost to talk with us, and YOU PAY NOTHING unless we win your case.

Why Us? Because We Listen! ™

“If you are seeking a law firm that combines exceptional legal skill with heartfelt client care, Oaks Law Firm is the answer. Their professionalism, dedication, and personal attention are truly second to none. I wish I could give them a thousand stars for the incredible support they provided and the outstanding results they delivered. They exceeded every expectation and showed me that my voice and my case mattered.” – Veniz B., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐