Last month, the second year of Chicago’s electric scooter test program came to an end. Between August 12 and December 12, 2020, residents and visitors to the city took over 640,000 rides on “rented” e-scooters in a variety of areas and neighborhoods. While the city’s focus was on determining the feasibility of a permanent scooter program as a form of public transportation, riders were simply trying to get where they were going. Unfortunately, with so many people on scooters, accidents are bound to happen. If you were injured in any type of accident caused by someone on a scooter, you may have options for collecting compensation.
Establishing Fault
When an injury-causing accident occurs, the first step toward collecting damages is determining what caused the accident and which party or parties were at fault. Riders in the scooter pilot program were expected to follow very specific rules regarding where to ride, how fast to ride, and how to be safe. Not all riders follow the rules, however, and failing to follow the rules could make a rider liable for any injuries that he or she causes as a result. For example, if you were crossing the street at an intersection and you should have had the right of way, and you were hit by a scooter rider who failed to stop or yield for you, the rider is likely to be found at fault.
Keep in mind that it is possible for you to share in the liability for the accident and still collect compensation. To continue the example above, if you were crossing at the same intersection with your eyes glued to your phone, it could be argued that you were partially responsible for the accident for failing to look around you. Under Illinois law, you could still pursue compensation as long as you are not found to be more than half at fault for the accident. Your compensation, however, will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
What Types of Damages Are Available?
Through a personal injury lawsuit, you may be able to collect a wide range of damages for your scooter accident injuries. First, you may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses related to your injuries, as well as for any time that you missed at work as a result. Depending on the circumstances, you might also be able to collect damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and permanent scarring or disfigurement. You could even be compensated for a reduced quality of life if your injuries are severe enough. Your attorney can help you determine what types of damages are likely to be awarded in your case.
Call a Chicago Scooter Injury Attorney for Help
For more information about scooter-related injuries and collecting compensation, contact a Chicago e-scooter accident lawyer at Livas Law Group, A Division of Kralovec Jambois & Schwartz. Our team will sit down with you to discuss your case and your options for pursuing financial damages. Call 312-804-6102 for a free consultation today.
Sources:
E-Scooter pilot program ends Saturday as ridership sharply declines
https://courts.illinois.gov/court/CircuitCourt/CivilJuryInstructions/30.00.pdf