Electric scooters—also called e-scooters or dockless scooters—have exploded in popularity across Southern California, and especially in the San Gabriel Valley. Whether you’re commuting to work in Pasadena, riding around Old Town Alhambra, or grabbing groceries in Monrovia, it’s hard not to notice people zipping around on scooters from Bird, Lime, and Spin.
While these scooters offer a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly way to travel short distances, they also bring with them a sharp rise in accidents and injuries. And here’s where things get complicated: liability in e-scooter accidents isn’t always clear-cut. That’s why if you’ve been injured—either while riding or as a pedestrian—it’s critical to understand your legal options.
A Micro-Mobility Boom with Macro Consequences
In the past five years, the San Gabriel Valley has seen a major increase in the adoption of micro-mobility services. Cities like Pasadena and Baldwin Park have partnered with private scooter companies to reduce car traffic and emissions. But the rush to implement these programs has often outpaced the creation of proper safety infrastructure and regulations.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), more than 42,000 e-scooter-related injuries were reported in the U.S. in 2023 alone—a 21% increase over the previous year. Many of these accidents occurred in urban and suburban areas, especially where scooters share space with cars, pedestrians, and cyclists.
In Southern California, local hospitals have seen a noticeable uptick in ER visits due to scooter-related injuries ranging from broken bones and concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Some of the most common causes include:
- Collisions with motor vehicles
- Scooters malfunctioning mid-ride
- Pedestrians being struck by riders
- Riders falling due to poorly maintained streets or sidewalks
Real-Life Example: Alhambra Evening Commute Gone Wrong
Imagine this scenario: A 29-year-old software engineer in Alhambra rents a Lime scooter after work and rides home on Valley Blvd. As he crosses through a green light at a marked intersection, a distracted driver turns left across his path, hitting him head-on. He suffers a broken leg, head trauma, and months of lost income.
This is not just a hypothetical situation. These types of crashes are happening regularly across the San Gabriel Valley—and victims are often left confused about who’s responsible and what steps to take.
Who Can Be Held Liable in an E-Scooter Accident?
Depending on how the accident occurred, several different parties may be held accountable. Here’s a breakdown of who may be legally liable:
- Scooter Rider
If the rider was behaving negligently—such as weaving between cars, ignoring traffic laws, or riding under the influence—they may be liable for the accident, especially if a pedestrian or other vehicle was injured.
However, even if the rider bears some responsibility, California’s comparative fault law means victims may still recover damages in proportion to the other party’s share of fault.
- Scooter Company
If the scooter malfunctioned—due to brake failure, battery issues, or loose handlebars—the rental company (like Bird or Lime) may be held liable under product liability or negligent maintenance laws. These companies have a legal obligation to inspect and maintain their fleets regularly.
Several class action lawsuits have already been filed in California against scooter companies for failing to ensure safe vehicles, especially after repeated injuries on the same models.
- Vehicle Driver
If a car, truck, or motorcycle strikes a scooter rider, the driver may be liable for negligence—especially if they were speeding, distracted, or failed to yield the right of way. In many cases, scooter riders are hit when drivers make unsafe left turns or open doors without looking.
- City or Municipality
Poor infrastructure is a major factor in many scooter crashes. Potholes, uneven sidewalks, lack of bike lanes, and missing signage can all contribute to dangerous conditions. In these cases, the city or local government—such as the City of Monrovia or Pasadena Department of Transportation—may be liable for failing to maintain safe roads.
It’s important to note that filing a claim against a city involves strict deadlines—often just six months—so time is of the essence.
Common Injuries from E-Scooter Accidents
While scooters may not seem dangerous at first glance, the injuries sustained in accidents are often severe. Riders are generally unprotected and travel at speeds up to 15 mph or more.
Common injuries include:
- Fractures (wrists, collarbones, hips)
- Head injuries and concussions
- Spinal damage
- Road rash and deep lacerations
- Dental injuries
- Internal bleeding
Even pedestrians struck by riders or tripped by parked scooters can suffer serious harm. These injuries often lead to expensive hospital bills, physical therapy, and missed time at work.
What to Do After a Scooter Accident in the San Gabriel Valley
If you’re involved in an e-scooter accident—either as a rider, pedestrian, or driver—follow these steps immediately:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, documentation is crucial for your claim.
- Take photos of the scene, injuries, scooter, road conditions, and any involved vehicles.
- Get witness information and contact details.
- Report the accident to the scooter company through their app or website, and file a police report.
- Do not accept blame or sign any waivers before speaking with an attorney.
Contact a personal injury lawyer familiar with e-scooter accident cases.
Don’t Let an E-Scooter Injury Derail Your Life. Call Doyle Accident & Injury Attorneys at (626) 737-0036 for a Free Consultation.
We have experience holding both scooter companies and negligent drivers accountable in personal injury cases. Whether your crash happened in Pasadena, Monrovia, or Baldwin Park, we’re here to fight for your medical expenses, lost wages, and peace of mind.
