Long Island E-Scooter Accident Lawyer

divider

Many Long Island residents and visitors enjoy electric scooters as a fun and environmentally friendly alternative to motor vehicles. But many of the features that make e-scooters great also make them risky. Since almost anyone can buy or rent an e-scooter, many people do not appreciate the potential hazards of scootering through busy areas. As a result, riders and pedestrians often sustain painful injuries from preventable electric scooter accidents in Long Island.

If you were hurt in an e-scooter accident, the Long Island personal injury lawyers at Finz & Finz, P.C. can help. Our distinguished team has recovered over $1 billion in compensation for deserving clients like you.

Contact us today to learn more about your legal options in a free initial consultation.

New York Electric Scooter Laws

Electric scooters have exploded in popularity, but they were banned throughout New York until very recently. State legislators were previously concerned that e-scooter use could contribute to existing congestion in cities, though research indicates the opposite is more likely.

In response to skyrocketing demand, New York announced new laws in 2020 allowing electric scooters on many streets and highways statewide. Under the new law, an electric scooter, or “e-scooter,” is defined as a motorized device that meets the following criteria:

  • Weighs less than 100 pounds
  • Has handlebars
  • Has a floorboard or seat that can be stood or sat on
  • Is propelled by an electric motor or human power
  • Has a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour (mph) when powered only by an electric motor

Local governments throughout Long Island and the rest of New York retain the authority to create more specific regulations, but current state laws impose the following basic restrictions on riders and their electric scooters:

  • Electric scooters cannot be registered as motor vehicles with the DMV, but they can still be used on some streets and highways.
  • Riders may only operate e-scooters on highways with posted speed limits of 30 mph or less.
  • Riders cannot operate e-scooters on sidewalks unless specifically authorized by local regulations.