Serious Scooter Collision In Coral Gables Highlights Risks And Legal Issues For Riders

A recent accident in Coral Gables, FL, where a scooter rider was severely injured in a crosswalk, is a reminder of how vulnerable pedestrians are when using micro-mobility devices on our streets. Injured victims can sometimes be entitled to compensation under Florida law.

A man riding a stand-up scooter in the crosswalk at the intersection of Douglas Road and Giralda Avenue was hit by an SUV that fled the scene, according to the police report. The injured man broke two bones in his foot and sustained a large contusion to the calf, and eyewitnesses stated that the man’s foot was trapped underneath the car before the driver fled the scene.

A suspect has been identified through automated license plate reader technology and security camera footage. A man was arrested for felony leaving the scene of a crash, causing serious bodily injury, and resisting arrest without violence. 

Why scooter accidents are serious 

One of the reasons why scooters are becoming more popular in South Florida, especially in densely populated cities, is due to their affordability and convenience in short-distance travel. At the same time, these scooters put their operators at great risk of injury in an accident involving a motor vehicle. In contrast to automobiles or even bicycles, which offer some kind of protection, scooters tend to offer none.

In the case of Coral Gables, it is evidence from the rider’s injuries such as foot fractures, that a striking vehicle’s weight and speed can be very dangerous for riders when crossing a road and traffic does not yield. 

Your legal rights after a scooter crash 

An injured victim struck by a motor vehicle can have several different legal claims under Florida law. These include: 

• Negligence of the driver – If the driver did not yield to pedestrians or scooter riders, was distracted or speeding, or did not follow traffic regulations, a personal injury lawsuit can be filed against the driver’s insurance company. A driver must exercise “due care” toward pedestrians and scooter riders while approaching them in the crosswalk. 

• Hit and run – Leaving the scene of an accident with bodily injury is a felony offense in the State of Florida. Besides criminal sanctions, the driver’s insurance or the cyclist can sue to recover costs related to medical expenses, lost salaries, suffering, and future care. 

• Contributory negligence – Florida operates on a modified comparative negligence rule. The rider might be partially responsible for his injuries and still file a claim against the driver. If he was lawfully in the crosswalk and had the right-of-way, it can make for a strong case for the rider. 

Talk to a Jacksonville, FL, Car Accident Attorney Today 

Gillette Law represents the interests of plaintiffs who have been seriously injured in car accidents. Call our Jacksonville personal injury lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your next steps right away.

Source:

nbcmiami.com/news/local/actress-devon-aokis-husband-arrested-in-coral-gables-hit-and-run-that-hurt-scooter-rider-police/3735775/