Injured by an E-Scooter as a Pedestrian? Understand Your Rights

E-scooters have become an increasingly popular way of transport in the UK. With their rise
in popularity, it is no surprise that there were more than 1,250 collisions in the UK involving
e-scooters and other road users in a recent year. As a pedestrian, understanding your legal
rights is crucial if you are involved in a road traffic accident.

Are E-Scooters Legal on UK Roads?

This is one of the most common questions we receive, and the answer is not always
straightforward.
The law defines an e-scooter as a “motor vehicle,” which means it must comply with the
same regulations as cars and motorbikes regarding insurance, tax, and registration. However,
most private e-scooters cannot meet these requirements.

• Privately owned e-scooters are not currently legally permitted on public roads,
  pavements, or cycle lanes. They are only allowed on private land with the permission
  of the landowner. Using one in a public space is illegal and can result in fines and
  penalty points for the rider.

• Rental e-scooters, which are part of government-approved schemes, are an
  exception. They can be legally ridden on public roads in designated trial areas, and the
  rental companies provide the necessary insurance.

What to Do if You Are Hit by an E-Scooter

If you are a pedestrian involved in a collision with an e-scooter, the steps you take
immediately after the incident are vital for any future pedestrian claim.

1. Gather Information
   Rental E-Scooter: If the rider was on a scheme scooter, obtain their name and contact
   details, as well as the name of the rental scheme (e.g., Voi, Lime). The rider will be
   insured through the scheme.
    Private E-Scooter: If the rider was on their own e-scooter, they are likely riding
   illegally and without insurance. Obtain their name and contact details if possible, as
   you may be able to claim against them directly.
2. Seek Medical Attention Your health is the priority. See a doctor or go to the hospital, even
   if your injuries seem minor. Your medical records will be essential evidence for your claim.
3. Report the Incident Report the incident to the police, especially if the rider fails to stop or
   if you suspect they are not insured.

Making a Claim for E-Scooter Injuries

You can seek compensation for your injuries, damage to property, and other losses, but you
must be able to prove that the e-scooter rider was negligent. It is not enough that the e-scooter
was simply being ridden illegally.

• Claiming Against a Rental Scheme Rider: In this case, a claim can be made against
  the rider’s insurance policy provided by the rental company, similar to a standard road
  traffic accident claim.
• Claiming Against a Private E-Scooter Rider: If you cannot trace the rider, or if they
  are uninsured, you may be able to make a claim to the Motor Insurers’ Bureau
  (MIB). The MIB is a non-profit organisation that compensates victims of uninsured
  and “hit-and-run” drivers. They will deal with the case under either the uninsured or
  untraced drivers’ agreement and will compensate you as if the e-scooter rider was
  insured.

Crucially, even if the e-scooter was being ridden illegally, you still have a right to pursue
a claim if their negligence caused you harm.

We Can Help with Your E-Scooter Injury Claim

If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident, it is vital to get expert legal advice as soon
as possible. The law in this area can be complex, and getting it right is crucial for a successful
outcome.

At ASD Solicitors, we can help you understand your rights and guide you through the
process. We may be able to assist you on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, so you have nothing to lose
by getting in touch.

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.