A recent scooter crash that resulted in the death of CBS 2 New York news reporter highlights the inherent dangers of motorized scooters. The 26-year-old victim, was riding as a passenger on a Revel scooter, when the operator of the scooter braked suddenly, throwing her off the scooter and into the roadway. She sustained significant physical injuries and was taken to Bellevue Hospital, where she later died.
The individual who was operating the scooter at the time of the crash, sustained minor injuries. Police could not determine initially why the scooter swerved, resulting in both the operator of the scooter and the passenger to be thrown from the scooter. However, they did determine that the driver completed a hard brake on the front wheel at the time of the accident. Firsthand accounts from bystanders, the individual operating the scooter slammed on his brakes at a four-way stop sign, losing control over the scooter.
The scooter was a ‘Revel’ brand, based out of Brooklyn, NY. Revel scooters and mopeds are made by Chinese manufacturer, Niu, and are said to top out at speeds of 30 mph.
Single vehicle crashes like this one are common with mopeds, scooters and e-scooters. These type crashes can be the result of a dangerous road hazard, malfunction of the scooter or moped, or driver / operator error.
According to Florida Statutes Section 316.003(45) a ‘motorized scooter’ is defined as any vehicle that is powered by a motor with our without a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, which is designed to travel on not more than three wheels, and which is not capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed greater than 20 miles per hour on level ground.
Under 316.003(77), Florida Statute, a moped is defined as a vehicle with no more than three wheels and a saddle. It may have no more than two-brake horsepower. Its top speed may not exceed 30 miles per hour. The internal combustion engine may have a displacement of not more than 50 cc.
Under Florida Statutes Section 316.003(4), if the motor scooter has pedals to permit propulsion by human power, has a seat for the rider, is designed to operate on less than three wheels, and has a motor rated less than 2 brake horsepower, and does not exceed speeds greater than 30 mph, Florida law defines this as a moped.
COMPENSATION AVAILABLE TO VICTIMS OF MOTORIZED SCOOTER ACCIDENTS
If you have been injured in an Orlando motorized scooter, motor scooter, or moped accident, your injuries can be split into two categories: Economic damages and Non-Economic damages.
Economic Damages:
- Medical Bills
- Future Medical Treatment
- Household expenses
- Loss wages
- Loss of future earnings
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological damage
- Loss of consortium
If you or someone close to you was seriously injured in an Orlando motorized scooter, motor scooter, or moped crash, our personal injury lawyers are ready to help protect your legal rights. From investigating the cause of the accident to helping you get the medical treatment you need, the legal team at Wooten Kimbrough Damaso & Dennis, P.A. is here to assist you every step of the way, and get you the compensation you deserve.