Injured in a Collision with an E-Scooter as a Cyclist? What you Need to Know

E-scooters have become an increasingly common sight on UK roads, and with their rise in popularity,
so have the number of collisions. If you are a cyclist, a collision with an e-scooter can be confusing.
You may be left wondering about your legal rights and whether you can claim compensation.
As a cyclist, understanding your legal position is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the key legal and
practical issues for a road accident with an e-scooter.

Are E-Scooters Legal on UK Roads and Cycle Paths?

This is the most common and important question. The law classifies e-scooters as “motor vehicles,”
which means they must comply with the same regulations as cars and motorbikes.

If you are a cyclist, it’s important to remember that even if a private e-scooter is riding illegally on a
cycle path, you still have a right to pursue a claim if their negligence caused you harm.

• Privately Owned E-Scooters: It is illegal to ride a privately owned e-scooter on public roads,
  pavements, or cycle lanes. They are only permitted on private land with the landowner’s
  permission.
• Rental E-Scooters: The only legal exception is for rental e-scooters that are part of a
  government-approved trial scheme. These can be ridden on public roads and in designated
  cycle lanes, as the rental companies provide the necessary insurance.

What If You’re Involved in a Collision with an E-Scooter?

If you’re a cyclist and are struck by an e-scooter, you should take the following steps to protect your
position:

• Obtain Details: Get the rider’s name and address. If they are riding a rental e-scooter, note
  the scheme’s name and the scooter’s identification number. This is crucial for identifying the
  insurer.
• Seek Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Get checked by a medical professional, as
  your medical records will be essential evidence for any future claim.

Claiming Compensation for a Cyclist’s Injury

Your ability to claim compensation will depend on the type of e-scooter involved and whether you
can prove the rider was at fault.

• Rider on a Rental E-Scooter: A claim can be made against the rider’s insurance, which is
  provided by the rental company. The process is similar to a claim against a car driver.
• Rider on a Privately Owned E-Scooter: Since it’s illegal to ride these without insurance, the
  rider is likely uninsured. In this case, you can:

o Claim directly against the rider.
o Make a claim to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The MIB is a body that
compensates victims of uninsured drivers. They can handle your claim under the
uninsured or untraced drivers’ agreement, depending on whether you can identify
the rider.

Crucially, in all cases, it is not enough that the e-scooter was simply being ridden illegally; you must
prove that the rider’s negligence caused your injuries.

Expert Legal Advice for Your E-Scooter Claim

The law surrounding e-scooters is complex and constantly evolving. Getting expert legal advice is
vital for a successful outcome. At ASD Solicitors, we can help you navigate this difficult process and
determine the best course of action.

We may be able to assist you on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, so you have nothing to lose by getting in
touch.

If you would like further information or to discuss your specific situation, please contact Chris
Chappell at ASD Solicitors today.

For advice related to the value of your claim please call 0114 2678780.  You can also mail Richard Meggitt at [email protected], or complete our online form today.