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Personal Injury Lawyers Colorado

Colorado Springs Scooter Accident Lawyer

Electric scooters, both private and rental, have become increasingly popular in Colorado Springs. However, this rising popularity brings increased risks on the road, especially when encountering negligent drivers. If you’ve been injured while riding an electric scooter, a Colorado Springs scooter accident lawyer at McCormick & Murphy, P.C. can provide the legal guidance you need.

Scooters vs. Motorcycles

Although scooters and motorcycles share similarities, Colorado law treats them as distinct categories.

According to the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), a low-power scooter is any self-propelled vehicle with:

  • No manual clutch
  • No more than three wheels touching the ground
  • An internal combustion engine no more than 50cc OR an electric motor no more than 4,476 watts

This classification typically includes privately owned scooters and rental options from companies like Lime or Veo. Any scooter with a more powerful engine is legally considered a motorcycle, requiring a special license to operate.

It’s important to note that these definitions don’t apply to toys, bicycles, wheelchairs, or mobility assistive devices.

Colorado Laws for Scooters and Low-Power Mopeds

Even though low-power scooters aren’t classified as motorcycles, riders must follow specific regulations:

  • All scooters must be registered with the DMV every three years
  • Registration requires motor vehicle insurance coverage or a certificate of self-insurance
  • Riders must possess a valid driver’s license
  • Registration costs $5.85

Safety requirements under CRS § 42-4-220(1) include:

  • A front lamp emitting visible white light at least 500 feet ahead
  • A red reflector on the back visible from 50 to 300 feet
  • A bell, horn, or other audible signaling device
  • A functional brake system

Like motorcyclists, riders over 18 aren’t legally required to wear helmets. However, all drivers and passengers under 18 must wear helmets meeting federal safety standards with:

  • A “DOT” symbol
  • The certification “FMVSS No. 218”

While adult riders aren’t legally mandated to wear helmets, doing so can prevent serious or fatal traumatic brain injuries. Not wearing a helmet doesn’t disqualify you from pursuing compensation after an accident.

How to Ride a Scooter Safely

Due to their small size and quiet operation, scooters are less noticeable than other vehicles, increasing accident risk. Here are safety tips from our Colorado Springs scooter accident lawyers:

1. Never Lane Split

Lane splitting is illegal in Colorado under CRS § 42-4-1503. Many drivers don’t check for scooters between lanes, creating serious accident risks. If you lane split and get into an accident, you’ll likely be deemed at fault.

2. Ride in the Far-Right Lane or Bike Lane

To maximize visibility, ride in the bike lane or as far right as possible. Stay off sidewalks, as Colorado prohibits low-power scooters on pedestrian ways. Avoid riding in vehicle blind spots – it’s safer to ride behind or in front of vehicles rather than beside them. Never ride on highways or interstates, as this is illegal in most areas.

Common Scooter Accident Injuries

Scooter riders face significant injury risks due to limited protection. Common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Road rash and abrasions
  • Internal injuries
  • Soft tissue damage

Liability in Scooter Accidents

Multiple parties may be liable in scooter accidents:

  • Negligent motorists
  • Scooter rental companies (for equipment failure)
  • Property owners (for hazardous conditions)
  • Government entities (for road maintenance issues)
  • Scooter manufacturers (for defective parts)

Compensation for Scooter Accident Victims

If injured in a scooter accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses (current and future)
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Property damage
  • Diminished quality of life

Injured Riding a Powered Scooter? Contact a Colorado Springs Scooter Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured while riding a low-power scooter due to another’s negligence, contact McCormick & Murphy. With over 50 years of combined experience representing motor vehicle accident victims throughout Colorado, our attorneys understand the complexities of scooter accident cases.

To schedule a free case review, contact us online or call 719-389-0400.

Scooter Accident Attorney Services

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Disclaimer: The information on this website is for information purposes only. This website should not be taken as legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. This information should not be taken as the formation of a lawyer or attorney client relationship.

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