With the rise of scooters and e-bikes as popular modes of transportation in San Diego, accidents involving these vehicles have become increasingly common. At Kashou Law, APC, we are dedicated to representing victims of San Diego scooter and e-bike accidents, providing the comprehensive legal support needed to secure fair compensation. Led by Justin S. Kashou, our firm understands the unique challenges that come with these types of accidents, from dealing with insurance companies to handling complex liability issues. Our commitment to personalized and compassionate legal service ensures that your case receives the attention and dedication it deserves. Trust the San Diego injury lawyers at Kashou Law, APC to fight for your rights and help you recover from your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Why Kashou Law Should Handle Your San Diego Scooter and E-Bike Accident Claim
When dealing with the aftermath of a San Diego scooter or e-bike accident in San Diego, having the right legal representation is important to securing the compensation you deserve. Here’s why Kashou Law is the ideal choice for handling your claim:
- Comprehensive Understanding of Local Laws and Regulations San Diego has specific laws and regulations governing the use of scooters and e-bikes. Justin S. Kashou is a San Diego native with a deep understanding of local traffic laws and ordinances
- Personalized Attention and Client-Centered Approach: At Kashou Law, APC we prioritize personalized legal service. Unlike larger firms where cases are often handed off to junior associates, Justin personally oversees each case from start to finish.
- Commitment to Client Well-Being: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a scooter or e-bike accident can take on your life. At Kashou Law, we are committed to providing compassionate and supportive legal representation.
- Accessible and Responsive Legal Support: At Kashou Law, we believe in maintaining open lines of communication with our clients. Justin is always accessible to address any questions or concerns, providing timely updates and clear explanations of the legal process.
How an Attorney Will Benefit Your San Diego Scooter and E-Bike Accident Claim
Following a San Diego scooter or e-bike accident, having proper legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Here are several ways our attorney, Justin S. Kashou, can benefit your case:
- Evaluating Claims: A lawyer like Justin S. Kashou can accurately assess both economic and non-economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs. This comprehensive valuation ensures you seek the full compensation you are entitled to.
- Gathering Evidence: Our team will conduct thorough investigations, collecting critical evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimonies. We will also analyze data from e-bike or scooter devices, which can provide crucial information about the accident.
- Negotiating with Insurers: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Justin S. Kashou will negotiate assertively on your behalf so that you receive a fair settlement.
- Compliance with Legal Deadlines: Our San Diego accident attorney will make sure that all legal documents are filed correctly and within the required time frames, preventing your claim from being dismissed due to missed deadlines.
Legal Definition of a San Diego Scooter and E-Bike
California has a specific law defining scooters and e-bikes. According to California Vehicle Code § 407.5:
“(a) A “motorized scooter” is any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, has either a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding or a seat and footrests in place of the floorboard, and is powered by an electric motor. This device may also be designed to be powered by human propulsion. For purposes of this section, a motorcycle, as defined in Section 400, a motor-driven cycle, as defined in Section 405, or a motorized bicycle or moped, as defined in Section 406, is not a motorized scooter. (b) A device meeting the definition in subdivision (a) that is powered by a source other than electrical power is also a motorized scooter. (c)(1) A manufacturer of motorized scooters shall provide a disclosure to buyers that advises buyers that the buyers’ existing insurance policies may not provide coverage for these scooters and that the buyers should contact their insurance company or insurance agent to determine if coverage is provided. (2) The disclosure required under paragraph (1) shall meet both of the following requirements: (A) The disclosure shall be printed in not less than 14-point boldface type on a single sheet of paper that contains no information other than the disclosure.
(B) The disclosure shall include the following language in capital letters: “YOUR INSURANCE POLICIES MAY NOT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THE USE OF THIS SCOOTER. TO DETERMINE IF COVERAGE IS PROVIDED, YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY OR AGENT.””
What this law provides is that a motorized scooter is a vehicle with two wheels, handlebars, and a floorboard that the rider stands on, powered by an electric motor. Motorized scooters may also have a seat that does not interfere with the ability to stand and ride.
E-Bikes are classified into three divisions:
- Class 1 E-Bike: A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour.
- Class 2 E-Bike: A bicycle equipped with a throttle-actuated motor, which ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour.
- Class 3 E-Bike: A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches 28 miles per hour. Riders of Class 3 e-bikes must be 16 years or older and wear a helmet.
Speed Limits in a San Diego Scooter and E-Bike Accident
Motorized scooters must follow specific speed limits, similar to motor vehicles. According to California Vehicle Code § 22411:
“No person shall operate a motorized scooter at a speed in excess of 15 miles per hour.”
Compliance with the 15 miles per hour speed limit is a critical factor in assessing fault in motorized scooter accidents. If a rider exceeds this speed limit and is involved in an accident, they may be deemed partially or fully liable due to their violation of the law. This non-compliance can be used as evidence of negligence. In California, violating a statute can be considered negligence per se, meaning that the act of speeding itself can be presumed to be negligent if it causes harm. This presumption makes it easier for injured parties to prove liability in court. In court, evidence such as witness testimony, traffic camera footage, and data from scooter sensors can be used to establish whether the scooter was operated within the speed limit. This evidence is crucial in determining liability and the apportionment of damages.
Contact Our San Diego Scooter and E-Bike Accident Attorney Today
At Kashou Law, we understand the complexities of San Diego scooter and e-bike accidents. As a smaller firm, we offer dedicated, one-on-one attention to every client. Justin S. Kashou, our founder, personally oversees each case to ensure the best possible outcome. From gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, we provide thorough legal support tailored to your unique situation.
We offer a free consultation to assess your case and provide clear, straightforward advice on your legal options. Don’t face the aftermath of a scooter or e-bike accident alone.
Contact the San Diego bike accident lawyers of Kashou Law today for a free consultation. Let us discuss your case, explain your rights, and outline how we can help you achieve justice and financial recovery. Call us at (619) 963-2030.