E-scooters are relatively new additions to our roads, but they're becoming increasingly popular in the UK. If you’ve been injured while riding an e-scooter, or you’ve been injured by an e-scooter colliding with you, Slater and Gordon may be able to help you claim e-scooter injury compensation.
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Electric scooters also known as e-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988, which means that to be used on public roads or in public spaces, you must have a driving licence, and the e-scooter must be taxed and insured.
When you rent an e-scooter, operators are required to provide an insurance policy as part of their rental agreement. They can then be used in public and should be ridden in cycle lanes or by the side of the road, as you would if you were cycling a standard bicycle.
Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads and in public spaces, as it’s not currently possible to insure them. If you do, the police have the authority to seize the scooter for no insurance, fine you and add points to your licence.
As electric scooters are still relatively new additions to our roads, the law around their use can be quite complex and susceptible to change as their use grows. Inevitably, this is likely to cause confusion around what to do in the case of an e-scooter accident, and you may be left wondering if you can make a claim.
Our e-scooter accident lawyers can advise you on whether you can get compensation for your accident and guide you through this process.
What are the common causes of e-scooter accidents?
As the number of e-scooters on the road increases, so does the number of accidents. E-scooter accident can occur in a variety of situations and, if riders aren’t wearing the correct protective gear, it can lead to serious injuries.
Loss of control: E-scooters can reach speeds in excess of 30mph, which can make them difficult to control as they have limited braking capacity.
Pedestrian accidents: tripping over a dangerously parked e-scooter or if you’re hit as a pedestrian by someone riding an e-scooter on the road or pavement.
Vehicle collisions: you might also be injured as an e-scooter rider by a car or another vehicle which is being driven negligently on the road. E-scooter riders are often less visible on the road, making them vulnerable to accidents.
Faulty e-scooters: faulty e-scooters can be very difficult, or in severe cases even impossible, to control, which can significantly increase the risk of a collision
Defects in the road surface: poorly maintained road surfaces are not only uncomfortable to ride on, but they can also result in a loss of control, increasing the risk of collision.
What types of e-scooter accident claims are there?
You can make a claim if you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident as a result of someone else’s negligent behaviour, either while riding an e-scooter, as a pedestrian or if you’ve been injured in a collision which involved an e-scooter. A claim may even be brought against the local authority if the road you were riding on had a defect such as a dangerous pothole.
If you’re injured by a rental e-scooter, the scooter rider should have insurance and the process for claiming compensation is similar to if you were hit by a car or motorbike.
If you’re injured by someone riding a private e-scooter, the rider is almost certainly uninsured. However, the lack of insurance doesn’t mean it’s not worth pursuing a claim. The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) deals with claims against drivers who don’t have insurance, essentially stepping in and acting as an insurer.
If you’re a private e-scooter rider and were injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may still be able to make a claim. Case law suggests that illegally riding a private e-scooter may not always stop you from making a claim. In all cases, it’s worth talking to us about your e-scooter accident claim so we can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Why do I need a lawyer after an e-scooter accident?
Cardiff-based personal injury lawyer Nick Collins explains the benefits of seeking legal advice after a traffic accident and the compensation options that a lawyer can provide.
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What are the most common injuries resulting from e-scooter accidents?
Similar to pedestrians or cyclists, e-scooter riders are particularly vulnerable road users, and so accidents can have a devastating impact on their daily lives. Some common injuries include:
All these injuries can have a significant impact on your quality of life. If you’ve had a serious injury following an e-scooter accident, get in touch today.
What rehabilitation and treatment can I receive as part of my claim?
If you’ve suffered a serious injury, we’ll work with you to get you the high-quality rehabilitation and treatment you need to improve your recovery chances. We work closely with our in-house rehabilitation coordinator, Fiona Flynn, to identify your rehabilitation goals and support you throughout your recovery.
Early interim payments are a key part of our strategy to avoid financial hardship and make early rehabilitation possible for you while we manage your case. These payments can help with things you need such as physiotherapy, specialist nursing and house adaptations. We also work closely with charities and organisations that can provide you with additional advice and support if you need it.
If you've suffered an injury as a result of an e-scooter accident, contact us today on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online and one of our specialists will get back to you.
Excellent communication, in constant contact with the latest info regarding your case.
David
Really helpful and always on the other side of the phone if needed. Quick and easy service.
Ashley
Everything is moving along quickly and smoothly. Good professional service I'm glad I chose Slater and Gordon.
Kenny Jackson
How can I make a claim following an e-scooter accident?
If you’ve suffered an e-scooter injury due to someone else’s negligence, you can make an e-scooter accident claim by speaking to one of our expert solicitors, who can help you through this process.
To start your e-scooter claim, call us on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online to speak to a member of the team, who will discuss the details of your case with you.
We’ll assess your case and, if we think you’re likely to be successful, we’ll talk you through the claims process and your funding options (most of our e-scooter accident claims are pursued on a No Win No Fee basis).
To support your claim, we’ll gather all of the relevant evidence, including accessing your medical records (with your permission) and arranging for you to have medical examination/s with independent expert/s who specialise in providing medical evidence in cases such as yours.
Once we’ve collected all the initial information we need, we’ll submit a Letter of Claim to the responsible party. Your solicitor will keep you up to date with your claims progress and will handle all negotiations, working hard to secure the best possible result.
As part of your claim, we’ll advocate for you to have access to the best quality treatment and rehabilitation, where appropriate, to maximise your chances of a full recovery and future independence.
In most cases, negotiations will lead to a successful conclusion of the claim. However, there are occasions when a settlement cannot be reached, and the matter must go to court so a judge can make a decision on your case.
Why choose Slater and Gordon’s e-scooter injury solicitors?
The law surrounding the use of electric scooters can be complex and continues to evolve as they become more popular. It’s therefore crucial that you choose an e-scooter accident lawyer who specialises in this area of law.
Our lawyers are among the best and most experienced personal injury lawyers in the country, consistently receiving high rankings from reputable independent legal directories, such as Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500
We pride ourselves on taking a holistic, collaborative approach to your road traffic accident claim, working closely with medical experts who can assess your injuries and determine the future care and rehabilitation you may require.
We are an award-winning law firm and have a dedicated team of road traffic accident solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of road traffic accident claims. Our Initial Consultation provides tailored advice on your situation giving you clear guidance and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that every claim is different – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Speak to one of our road traffic accident solicitors today
What evidence will I need to pursue an e-scooter accident claim?
To successfully make an e-scooter accident claim, you’ll need to prove that the defendant owed you a duty of care, their actions were negligent and that their negligent actions caused your injuries.
Try to collect as much information as possible from the accident scene, including photographs and the contact details of any witnesses. This information will help your solicitor build your case to prove who was responsible for the accident.
What’s the cost of making an e-scooter accident claim?
We understand that your injuries might already be causing you financial hardship, especially if you’re unable to work as a result. That’s why we offer a No Win No Fee promise for e-scooter injury claims. This means that if you don’t win your case, you don’t have to pay your legal costs and there’s no financial risk involved in making a claim. Instead of worrying about how to pay for your legal fees, you can focus on your recovery.
How long does an e-scooter accident compensation claim take?
There is no definitive timeline as every case is different, and the extent of your injuries will influence how long it takes to get your compensation. It also depends on whether the person you believe was responsible for the accident accepts responsibility. However, as we’re experts in e-scooter accident claims, we’ll strive to achieve the best possible results as quickly and efficiently as possible.
What are the time limits for making an e-scooter accident claim?
Under UK law, you have three years from the date of your e-scooter accident to start your court claim. There are certain circumstances in which this time limit may change; for example, if you’re claiming on behalf of a child, or someone who lacks mental capacity to bring the claim themselves, or if your accident happened abroad.
It’s always best to speak to a specialist e-scooter accident solicitor as soon as possible to discuss your personal circumstances in more detail. To get in touch, call us on 0330 041 5869 or reach out online, and we’ll help you start your claim.
How much compensation will I get for an e-scooter injury claim?
Compensation for an e-scooter injury claim varies depending on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life and any financial losses linked to the accident. Every case is assessed individually, but awards generally take into account pain and suffering, medical treatment, rehabilitation costs and any long-term effects on your health or ability to work.
In more serious cases, compensation may also reflect future care needs or changes to your home or lifestyle. You may also be able to claim additional compensation for any financial losses you’ve suffered because of your injuries, including any future loss of earnings, the cost of any treatment or mobility aids, or travel expenses.
Our leading e-scooter accident solicitors will take time to understand your individual situation. We look closely at the full picture of your injuries, recovery needs and financial circumstances, helping you build a strong and clear case. Our experience in e-scooter claims means we can guide you through every step with care, making sure the final settlement reflects what you need to get life back on track.
Who can make an e-scooter injury compensation claim?
Anyone injured in an e-scooter accident caused by someone else’s negligence may be able to make an e-scooter injury compensation claim. This includes riders, pedestrians, cyclists, passengers or road users harmed by an unsafe manoeuvre, poorly maintained e-scooter, or careless driving by another vehicle on the road.
You can also bring a claim if a defective e-scooter or poorly maintained road or cycle path contributed to the accident. Claims can be made by someone else on behalf of children, or someone who lacks mental capacity to manage the litigation. If the accident was fatal, dependants may be able to bring a claim under the relevant UK legislation.
E-scooter accident claims fall under general personal injury law, meaning the core question is whether someone else owed you a duty of care, failed to take reasonable steps to avoid causing you harm and as a result, caused you injury. Our team at Slater and Gordon has extensive experience handling these situations. We will speak with you in clear, straightforward language so you always understand your options and your legal right to compensation.
Who pays the injured person’s compensation in an e-scooter injury claim?
This will depend on the circumstances of the accident, including who was involved, where liability lies, and how the accident occurred.
In most e-scooter claims, compensation is paid by the insurer of the responsible party. For example, if a rental e-scooter rider caused the accident, the insurance company will handle the claim on their behalf and pay out any compensation award due. In cases where the rider was uninsured or cannot be traced (such as hit-and-run accidents), claims are handled by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), who operate as the liable party’s insurer.
If the accident was caused by a defect in a rented e-scooter, the rental operator or manufacturer may be responsible. Public e-scooter trials in England require operators to hold insurance for all users, meaning compensation should still be available even if the rider themselves does not have personal insurance.
Can I make a No Win No Fee claim for an e-scooter accident?
Yes, many e-scooter accident claims can be pursued on a No Win No Fee basis. This type of agreement, also known as a Conditional Fee Agreement, allows you to start your claim without paying any legal costs upfront. If your claim is successful, a small capped contribution is deducted from your compensation. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t owe a penny in legal fees.
At Slater and Gordon, we understand how stressful an accident can be, especially if you are unable to work or facing unexpected expenses. A No Win No Fee agreement gives you access to high-quality legal advice without financial pressure. Our e-scooter accident lawyers will discuss the process with you clearly, so you know exactly what to expect at every stage.
Can I make a claim for an e-scooter accident that happened abroad?
You may still be able to bring an e-scooter accident claim if the incident happened outside the UK, depending on where the accident occurred and the circumstances involved. Claims involving accidents abroad are often more complex because different countries have different laws on liability, insurance and road use. Some countries treat e-scooters as motor vehicles, while others class them as bicycles or light personal mobility devices. The rules in place at the time of your accident will influence how your claim is handled.
Slater and Gordon regularly represent people injured abroad and understands how to navigate international claims. We can guide you through foreign insurance systems, local legislation and time limits, explaining how these rules apply and what steps you need to take. Our focus is always on giving clear, reassuring advice so you feel supported no matter where your accident took place.
To establish your legal position for an e-scooter claim abroad, talk to our experts today on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online.
Can I make an e-scooter claim if the accident was partly my fault?
Yes, you may still be able to make an e-scooter injury compensation claim even if you were partly at fault. This is known as contributory negligence. In these cases, compensation may be adjusted to reflect the extent to which your actions contributed to the accident. For example, if the other person was mostly responsible but you were riding without reflective clothing or made a minor mistake, you could still receive a proportion of the compensation.
Our e-scooter accident solicitors have significant experience dealing with these situations. We will carefully examine the evidence, speak with witnesses and guide you through the process at every step.
What if the e-scooter rider is not insured?
If you’ve been in an accident with an e-scooter rider and they don’t have insurance, you may still be able to claim compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The MIB compensates people injured by uninsured or untraceable riders/drivers, and this protection extends to many e-scooter collisions involving uninsured riders. If the e-scooter was part of an official rental scheme, the operator should have insurance in place even if the individual rider doesn’t.
We understand the frustration that can come with accidents involving uninsured riders. We will help you understand the process and your rights, ensuring you are not left without the support you need simply because the at‑fault rider failed to get insurance.
Can I claim compensation if I am injured by a rented e-scooter?
Yes, if you were injured by a rented e-scooter, you may be able to make a claim. This includes accidents caused by careless riding, poor maintenance, mechanical faults or unsafe road conditions. Rental e-scooter operators are required to hold insurance for their vehicles under the UK Department for Transport rules governing the national trial schemes. This means that if a rented e-scooter is involved in an accident, there will usually be insurance available to compensate anyone who is injured.
Excellent communication, in constant contact with the latest info regarding your case. David
Really helpful and always on the other side of the phone if needed. Quick and easy service. Ashley
Everything is moving along quickly and smoothly. Good professional service I'm glad I chose Slater and Gordon. Kenny Jackson