Electric scooters (e-scooters) have surged in popularity, offering a convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to travel. Major cities have embraced e-scooter sharing programs, with companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin making them widely accessible. However, with this growing trend comes a legal and insurance gray area, especially when accidents occur.

Many riders assume that if they get into an accident, their personal auto or health insurance will cover the damages. But the reality is far more complicated. E-scooters do not fit neatly into traditional vehicle classifications, leaving riders, pedestrians, and other drivers vulnerable when accidents happen. This article explores e-scooter insurance, including potential liability issues and coverage gaps that every rider should understand.

While being knowledgeable on this subject is beneficial, it does not substitute for legal advice from a professional. Consult with a personal injury attorney such as Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, for legal aid if you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident.

Are E-Scooters Covered Under Auto Insurance?

Unlike cars, e-scooters are not classified as motor vehicles in most states. This means that standard auto insurance policies do not cover e-scooter accidents unless specifically stated.

Why Auto Insurance Often Doesn’t Apply

1. E-Scooters Are Not Considered Vehicles – Since e-scooters are not subject to the same licensing and registration requirements as cars or motorcycles, auto insurers typically exclude them from coverage.
2. No Coverage for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – In no-fault states where Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is mandatory, riders may not be covered because e-scooters do not fall under traditional vehicle classifications.
3. Liability Exclusions – If an e-scooter rider hits a pedestrian or damages property, their auto insurance liability coverage likely will not pay for damages unless they have a specific e-scooter rider policy.

For example, in Michigan, e-scooters are not covered under the state’s no-fault insurance system, leaving injured riders with no guaranteed medical coverage through auto insurance.

Does Homeowners or Renters Insurance Cover E-Scooter Accidents?

In some cases, homeowners or renters insurance may provide limited coverage for e-scooter accidents, but only in specific situations.

When Homeowners or Renters Insurance May Apply:

• If a Rider Causes Property Damage – If an e-scooter rider crashes into someone’s property (e.g., a parked car or storefront), their personal liability coverage under a homeowners or renters policy might cover damages.
• If a Pedestrian Is Injured – Some policies may cover injuries caused by an e-scooter rider, but this depends on the specific policy terms.

When It Does NOT Apply:

• Intentional Acts – If a rider intentionally causes harm or was engaging in reckless behavior, coverage will likely be denied.
• Coverage Exclusions for Motorized Vehicles – Some policies specifically exclude motorized vehicles, including e-scooters, from liability protection.

What About Health Insurance for E-Scooter Accidents?

For e-scooter riders injured in an accident, health insurance is often the best option for covering medical bills. However, riders should keep the following in mind:

• High Deductibles and Co-Pays – Health insurance may cover treatment, but riders may still face out-of-pocket costs if their deductible is high.
• No Coverage for Lost Wages – Unlike auto insurance PIP, health insurance does not cover lost wages or rehabilitation costs after an accident.
• Coverage Limits – If injuries are severe, policy limits may not fully cover long-term medical expenses.

What If an E-Scooter Rider Hits a Pedestrian?

E-scooter accidents involving pedestrians present additional liability challenges. If a rider hits a pedestrian, determining who is responsible can be legally complex.

• The Rider’s Liability – If an e-scooter rider was reckless (e.g., riding on the sidewalk illegally or speeding), they could be held liable for injuries and damages.
• The Pedestrian’s Role – If a pedestrian stepped into the rider’s path unexpectedly, liability could be shared.
• Insurance Coverage Gaps – Since most auto insurance policies do not cover e-scooters, and homeowners insurance has limitations, injured pedestrians may struggle to receive compensation from the rider.

What Are E-Scooter Companies Responsible For?

E-scooter rental companies, such as Bird, Lime, and Spin, have terms of service that place much of the accident liability on the rider. Before renting a scooter, riders must agree to waive most claims against the company, meaning that:

• If an e-scooter malfunctions, causing an accident, the company may be held liable—but only if it can be proven that the company failed to maintain or repair the vehicle properly.
• Riders assume most risks, including collisions, injuries, and property damage.
• E-scooter companies provide minimal insurance, if any, for riders involved in accidents.

Legal Challenges and State-Specific Laws

E-scooter laws vary widely from state to state. Some states have clear guidelines on liability, while others leave many questions unanswered. Here are a few examples:

• California – Requires e-scooter riders to wear helmets and prohibits riding on sidewalks.
• Florida – Allows e-scooters on certain roads and bike lanes but has no clear insurance requirements.
• Michigan – E-scooters are not covered under the state's no-fault insurance laws, leaving riders without automatic medical coverage in crashes.

If you were injured in an e-scooter accident, it’s important to understand your state’s specific laws and how they apply to your case.

What to Do After an E-Scooter Accident

If you are involved in an e-scooter accident, taking the right steps can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving compensation:

1. Seek Medical Attention – Even minor injuries should be documented.
2. Report the Accident – If a car was involved, file a police report.
3. Take Photos and Gather Evidence – Document the scene, injuries, and scooter condition.
4. Check for Witnesses – Witness statements can help establish liability.
5. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer – Legal guidance is essential for navigating insurance claims and potential lawsuits.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

The insurance gray area surrounding e-scooters makes accident claims complex. Whether you were injured as a rider, pedestrian, or motorist involved in an e-scooter crash, understanding your rights is important.

At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we help accident victims navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s discuss your case.