Motorized scooters are a great way to travel, and they have become increasingly popular in recent years. When you decide to ride any form of motor scooter, you are far more vulnerable to the risks of the road, which makes proceeding with caution key. However, even caution cannot always protect you from the mistakes of other drivers.
Those injured in Vespa/motor scooter accidents in San Jose due to the negligence of others need legal assistance. If you have sustained such injuries, it is time to consult with an experienced scooter accident attorney at Valero Law Group.
Scooter Accidents and Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries refer to life-altering harm that leads to permanent or long-lasting disabilities. Prime examples include traumatic brain injuries, limb amputations, complex bone fractures, organ damage, and hearing or vision loss.
San Jose scooter crashes have the potential to cause one or more of these injuries, and seeking compensation can allow the claimant to focus on recovery.
What State Laws Apply to Scooter Accidents?
The state recognizes the immense losses associated with motor scooter accidents and has implemented safety regulations in response. These include:
- Riders must equip scooters with brakes capable of making a braked-wheel skid on pavement that is dry, level, and clean
- Riders under the age of 18 must wear a well-fitting helmet that meets the required safety standards
- Riders cannot exceed 15 miles per hour
- Riders may not carry passengers
- Riders must have a valid driver’s license
- Riders may not drive on sidewalks
Generally, the law requires those on scooters to ride in bike lanes whenever they are available. Despite these safety regulations, San Jose Vespa collisions may still cause severe injuries that can give rise to claims for damages.
Motor Scooter Accident Claims
All motorists have a responsibility for the safety of everyone else on the road, and this includes those on motor scooters. The problem is, however, that individuals are much more difficult to see when they are on a scooter, and too many motorists simply are not paying enough attention.
Proceed as if Invisible
The surest means of someone protecting themself when they are on a Vespa or motor scooter is assuming that they are invisible to other drivers. This is because, in all likelihood, they are. This does not, however, affect the duty of care that other drivers owe them.
Identifying Driver Negligence
There are many forms of driver negligence that often lead to scooter accidents. These include distraction, impairment, exhaustion, failure to yield the right-of-way, aggression, and excess speed.
To help establish the other driver’s negligence, a knowledgeable scooter accident attorney will gather evidence, including:
- The police report and any tickets issued
- The testimony of eyewitnesses
- The physical evidence from the scene of the accident, such as any skid marks or paint transfer
- The photos or videos captured by dashcams, security cameras, or traffic cameras
- The testimony of professionals with relevant expertise
- The professional accident reconstruction models that illustrate how the accident happened
This evidence can strengthen a motor scooter wreck case in San Jose.
Obtaining the Compensation Deserved
In a San Jose Vespa accident case, the claimant will seek compensation for their losses in several primary categories.
Medical Costs
Medical expenses in the wake of a scooter accident are likely to be steep and ongoing.
Lost Earnings
Individuals are likely to experience a loss in income during their recovery, and if their injuries affect their earning capacity, this category of loss can be that much more significant.
Pain and Suffering
The physical and emotional pain and suffering someone endures in a scooter accident can intensify their other losses and can make their recovery that much more challenging.
Reach Out to an Experienced San Jose Lawyer Today To Discuss Your Scooter Accident
Injuries sustained in Vespa/motor scooter accidents in San Jose can be severe, and a dedicated attorney at Valero Law Group has the experience and compassion to help you. We are on your side, so please do not wait to contact us online or give us a call today.
