If you have been injured in an electric bicycle accident, we have a Tampa personal injury attorney who will fight for the compensation you deserve. A bicycle crash can be very traumatic. We understand that these electric bike accidents can change lives forever, and you should not have to suffer alone. No amount of money will be able to change your experience, but it can aid your recovery and rehabilitation.
Regardless of who the at-fault party is, you may have a personal injury case worthy of compensation. Our highly experienced legal team will work as hard as they can to help you achieve the full compensation you deserve.
What Is An Electric Bike In Tampa, FL?
Electric bikes and electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular in Tampa, Florida Statutes 316.003(23) defines an electric bicycle as a bicycle or tricycle with an electric motor of 750 watts or less. They also have operable pedals and a seat/ or saddle for the rider to use.
In Florida, E-Bikes and E-Scooters do not have to abide by the same registration, insurance, and licensing requirements that other motor vehicles do. The law does not state that riders have to wear helmets, however, riders must be at least 16 years of age.
An E-Bike can only be used in a bike lane when a rider is powering their bike by themselves and without assistance from a motor. Furthermore, they cannot be used on sidewalks. The same rules of the road that apply to ordinary bikes apply to E-Bikes. We recommend that you do thorough research into these vehicles before riding them in Tampa.
Common Causes Of Electric Bicycle Accidents
An electric bike OR electric scooter accident can occur for a range of reasons. Unfortunately, they are not uncommon in Tampa. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
- Unsuitable bike lanes or road surfaces.
- Motor vehicle collisions.
- Drunk driving.
- Distracted driving.
- Faulty traffic signals.
- Poor environmental and weather conditions.
Regardless of the actions of the other parties in your electric bike accident, if you have been injured, a lawyer at The Law Place can help you.
Common Injuries Suffered In Electric Bike Accidents
If you have been injured in an E-Bike or E-Scooter accident, you may have a personal injury case worthy of compensation. These electrical bicycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries. Some of the most common injuries suffered in these accidents in Florida include:
- Back injuries.
- Broken bones.
- Spinal cord injuries.
- Traumatic brain injury.
- Neck injuries.
- Dislocations.
- Internal bleeding.
- Lacerations, bruises, and abrasions.
How Can I Prevent An Electric Bike Accident?
Unfortunately, not all bicycle and electric scooter accidents can be avoided. However, there are a few steps that you can take to help protect yourself on the roads of Tampa. These include the following:
Respect Traffic Laws
Be sensible on your E-Bike or E-Scooter. You must abide by all the rules of the road. Follow the rules of the right of way, stop signs, traffic signals, and more. You should also not ride if you are intoxicated.
Remove Headphones
Although it is tempting to listen to music or a podcast while riding your bike, you should refrain from doing so. If you cannot hear the traffic around you, the chances of being involved in a bike accident are increased. Also, if another person in your accident can prove that you were wearing headphones, it could hinder your compensation claim.
Be Visible
Electric bike riders and scooter riders are often difficult to see by other road users. It is important to wear bright colors and fit your bike with headlights and taillights. You should do all you can to make yourself visible.
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When Should I File A Personal Injury Claim?
You should file a claim for compensation or a personal injury lawsuit as soon as possible! This is because the state of Florida only allows injury victims four years to make a claim. This is outlined under Florida’s statute of limitations and can be found in Florida Statute 713.23(3). The sooner you act, the better.
Although four years may seem like enough time to make a claim, the time passes quickly. If you fail to claim within these years, your case will be barred. It is also beneficial to act quickly because it makes collecting evidence easier for your lawyer. By waiting years to make a compensation claim, you risk losing vital evidence. For example, surveillance cameras will often automatically wipe themselves clear. The more evidence you have, the more likely you are to receive the maximum amount of compensation for your case.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers.
What Do I Do After An Electric Bike Or Electric Scooter Accident In Florida?
If you suffer an electric bicycle accident or electric scooter accident in Tampa, we recommend that you complete the following steps.
Seek Medical Attention
In these accidents, your health and the health of the other parties involved are paramount. We strongly recommend that you seek appropriate medical attention. Even if you think you have escaped serious injuries, it is important to get checked out. You do not have to worry about medical expenses. A lawyer at our law firm can help you claim these back at a later date.
Contact Law Enforcement
If you are capable, you should call the police immediately. The presence of police at the scene of your accident will be beneficial to your personal injury case. This is because they will complete a police report that will be useful to your case. Furthermore, they will collect witness statements, insurance company details, and more.
Collect Evidence
If you are well enough to do so, we recommend that you collect evidence from the scene of the accident. Although the law enforcement at the scene will be gathering evidence, it will not harm your case for you to do so too. Taking photos and videos of the scene can help your compensation case.
How Much Financial Compensation Could I Claim For My Electric Bicycle Accident?
The amount of money that our law firm can help you receive following your accident will depend on a variety of factors. For example, if you have suffered a serious injury, you will probably receive more money than someone who has suffered bruises. The amount of property damage sustained and the severity of the electric bicycle accident can impact the amount of compensation you receive.
What Damages Could I Claim For?
At The Law Place, we have helped countless clients claim a variety of damages following their accidents. You may be eligible to claim for both economic and non-economic damages. Some of the most common damages that our clients have successfully claimed include:
- Medical bills.
- Lost wages.
- Pain and suffering.
- Future medical bills.
- Loss of consortium.
- Wrongful death.
- Loss of earning potential.
Do I Need A Tampa Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
You are within your right to represent yourself in your mission to receive compensation. However, we strongly advise that you consult with a reputable attorney if you have suffered a serious injury in an electric bike accident or electric scooter accident. These accidents can alter lives forever. You want to ensure that you give yourself the best chance of winning the maximum amount of compensation possible.
An attorney at our law firm will be able to guide you through the complex legal process. We understand that seeking legal help can feel daunting, but we are here for you. In a free consultation with a member of our team, we will be able to answer all of your questions.
How Much Do Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers Cost?
Many people assume in Florida that hiring legal help is expensive and not affordable. This is not the case at all. At The Law Place, our attorneys operate on a contingency-fee basis. This is also known as a no-win-no-fee basis.
You will not lose anything by seeking our help. If your attorney is unable to win you compensation, you will not owe us a dollar. Seeking compensation for an injury claim could not be easier!
The Florida State Bar Association monitors the contingency work of all law firms in Florida. We strictly abide by all of their rules and regulations.
Contact A Tampa Electric Bike Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in an electric bicycle or an electric scooter accident in Florida, you should contact our law firm today. At The Law Place, we have over 75 years of combined experience helping injured clients achieve the compensation they deserve.
To schedule a free case evaluation with an electric bike accident lawyer in Tampa, call us now.