Last Updated on: 22nd November 2023, 04:24 pm
The increasing popularity of e-scooters in the UK has sparked concerns about their safety and the legal implications of riding uninsured vehicles. Cycle SOS, a leading specialist in cycling accident claims, is shedding light on the hazards associated with these vehicles and advocating for greater awareness and regulation.
E-scooters have become a common sight on UK streets, offering a stylish and eco-friendly mode of transportation for commuters and leisure-seekers alike. However, with the rise in e-scooter usage, there has also been a significant increase in accidents involving these vehicles. From minor incidents to severe injuries, the safety risks associated with e-scooters are becoming more apparent, highlighting the need for better understanding and regulation.
According to reports up until June 2022, there were 1,349 reported collisions involving e-scooters, marking a 27% increase compared to the previous period. Of these collisions, over 1,000 involved a third party, resulting in 342 third party casualties. Shockingly, 11 riders and one third party lost their lives in these accidents. It is important to note that the majority of those injured are pedestrians and cyclists.
Navigating the legal landscape surrounding e-scooter usage is challenging. Legally, only e-scooters authorised under the Trials sanctioned by the Electric Scooter Trials & Traffic Signs Regulations 2020 are permitted to be ridden on the highway. These authorised vehicles provide a green alternative to cars and public transport. However, all other e-scooters used outside of these Trials are ridden illegally and therefore impossible to insure. This creates a paradox that puts riders and pedestrians in a precarious position.
A legally sanctioned e-scooter can only be ridden by a person aged 16 or over who holds at least a provisional license. Helmets are not mandatory. These machines must not exceed a speed of 15.5mph, weigh more than 55kg, and have a motor power output not exceeding 500 watts (twice that of e-bikes).
The lack of insurance coverage for illegally ridden e-scooters carries significant implications. Riders are personally liable for any accidents, injuries, or losses they cause, placing them at financial risk. This risk is often unknown to riders when they hop onto an e-scooter. For victims of e-scooter accidents, the absence of insurance can complicate and hinder the process of claiming compensation. Even if the rider’s identity is known, they are unlikely to have the financial resources to cover the damages, necessitating claims to be made to the Motor Insurers Bureau, which compensates victims of uninsured and untraced motorists.
To protect oneself from uninsured e-scooters, it is important to explore insurance options such as Home and Contents or bespoke Cycle Insurance that includes an Unsatisfied Judgement Recovery provision. However, pursuing a claim would require knowing the identity and address of the offending e-scooter rider. Such coverage can provide a safety net by covering medical expenses and other costs in the event of an accident involving an uninsured e-scooter.
Nonetheless, insurance should not be seen as a complete solution. While it offers financial protection, preventing accidents in the first place is paramount. All road users must practice safe driving and riding habits, and e-scooter riders must familiarise themselves with and adhere to the rules of the road.
In the unfortunate event of an e-scooter accident, seeking legal assistance promptly is crucial. Preserving evidence plays a vital role in these cases, and a swift response can significantly enhance the chances of a successful claim. Whether it is collecting photographs of the accident scene, securing witness statements, or documenting medical records, each piece of evidence strengthens the case. Most importantly, identifying the rider, who may be inclined to flee the scene, is essential.
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, and knowing where to start may be challenging. This is where Cycle SOS comes in. Bob Coupland, Head of Bike Claims at Cycle SOS, emphasizes their commitment to providing support to cyclists involved in accidents. With the increasing presence of e-scooters, they are ready to navigate the challenges and advocate for safer streets.
Cycle SOS will handle the legal aspects of your claim, including evidence gathering and negotiation with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on your recovery. For more information about Cycle SOS and the support they provide, please visit https://www.cycle-sos.co.uk/.
