Scooting along in a Vespa is a fun and easy way to navigate city streets while taking in the renowned Florida sunlight. As a result of the increased public use of these vehicles, it’s become more common for people to experience injuries while riding them. However, many riders are unsure when a Vespa injury warrants a lawsuit.
Several factors can determine if you have a valid case for a personal injury claim from a Vespa accident. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis may be able to walk you through all of these factors in depth. Our firm has valuable legal experience and strives to keep our clients informed while fighting for their rights.
Can I Sue if I Was Injured on a Vespa in Florida?
Under Florida law, Vespas are motor scooters, which means they are subject to the same laws and regulations as motorcycles. In any type of motor vehicle accident, if someone’s negligence caused you to become injured, you may be eligible to pursue compensation through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
Did Someone Else’s Negligence Cause Your Vespa Injury?
You can be injured on a Vespa for numerous reasons, but to be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit, your injury must have resulted from negligence. Any party’s negligence could lead to them being liable for your injury depending on the nature of the accident, including the following:
- Pedestrians: A pedestrian may be liable for any injuries or property damage sustained by a Vespa user if the pedestrian willfully caused a collision.
- Other motorists: If a collision between a car and a Vespa results in injuries, the individual who disobeyed the rules will be held accountable for the accident, but liability may also be shared between both parties.
- The manufacturer: Any harm or loss sustained by a user due to a defect or malfunction may subject the scooter manufacturer to legal action for defective products.
- The city: Scooter accidents brought on by poorly maintained roads, debris on walkways and streets, and inadequately signposted hazards may be the city’s fault.
- Businesses: Businesses may be held liable for Vespa accidents brought on by poorly maintained work areas, obstructions in the road, or poorly indicated hazards.
These are just a few examples of how negligence can manifest in different parties. In personal injury cases, establishing negligence and liability is fundamental to developing a successful claim.
Do Florida’s No-Fault Laws Apply to Vespa Accidents?
Florida’s no-fault laws specify that only vehicles with at least four wheels must carry personal injury protection (PIP). Vespas riders are not obliged to get any motorcycle insurance while registering the vehicle, so they are effectively exempt from Florida’s PIP requirement.
No-Fault laws also specify who will be the principal payer of medical expenses in the event of specific auto accidents and address which injuries qualify a victim for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. In a state with no-fault insurance, Vespa owners may be able to seek compensation from the liable motorist’s insurance provider, or they have the option to purchase their own policy.
Talk to a Lawyer About Your Legal Options After a Vespa Injury
Although they might be a convenient mode of transportation, Vespas can be confusing to deal with when filing an auto accident claim. Anyone hurt due to someone else’s negligence while riding a Vespa may be entitled to damages and should consider having a lawyer on their side to help them understand their legal rights.
Our legal team at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis consists of accomplished trial attorneys with a track record of obtaining fair settlements for their clients. We have defended Floridians against negligence and insurance companies for more than 50 years and understand that personal injury law can be complex. We are equipped to evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options. To arrange a meeting with one of our experienced lawyers, call (407) 843-7060 or use our contact form.