Building a Strong Claim for Bike and E-Scooter Accidents in Reading, PA

Cycling or riding an e-scooter can be a convenient way to get around the city, but it does come with risks. If you were struck by a vehicle while riding on a bicycle or e-scooter, you may be eligible to recover compensation. Certain steps should be taken to protect your health and your financial and legal interests. Even so, successful recovery depends on your ability to prove the other driver’s negligence and that you did not violate any laws. At Fanelli, Evans, & Patel, our personal injury attorneys are standing by, ready to help.

Strengthen Your Case by Seeking Medical Attention Immediately

Following a bike or e-scooter accident, protecting your health should be your top priority. The first step is to call 911. If you speak to the dispatcher, be clear and concise, detailing what happened and your injuries. Emergency personnel will assess your injuries and transport you to the hospital. When you arrive at the ER, a physician will perform a physical examination, order medical imaging and other diagnostic testing, diagnose, treat you, and provide discharge instructions.

Insurance companies are wary of anyone who waits to seek medical treatment following an accident. By seeking prompt medical attention, you protect your physical well-being and preserve your right to file a claim. If you only suffered some scrapes and bruises, you should still be seen by a physician within 72 hours. Waiting longer puts you at risk of having your claim denied since the insurance company may insist that you made your injuries worse by delaying medical treatment.

Call the Police & Rental Company

If you are hit while riding a bicycle or e-scooter, you should call the police. This is particularly important if you sustained injuries or property damage. The officer who responds to the scene will file an accident report, which will be requested by insurance when you file your claim. If you were renting an e-scooter or bike, you would also need to notify the rental company.

Gather Evidence

Taking photos of the accident scene, documenting the names and contact information of any witnesses, and obtaining a copy of the police report are essential to establishing fault. Under the state’s comparative negligence law, if either party in a personal injury or accident is found partially liable, their damages will be reduced by that percentage. If you are found more than 50% at fault, then you will be barred from recovery.

E-Scooter Laws in Reading, PA

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania does not permit e-scooters on public roads or sidewalks, although certain cities have begun pilot programs permitting them. However, e-scooters can be ridden on private property with the owner’s permission. So, if you are struck by a motor vehicle while riding an e-scooter in Reading, you may be eligible to recover damages from the driver if you were riding on a private road. Unfortunately, if you are found riding on a public road, your settlement or award will be significantly reduced, or you may receive no compensation.

Bicycle Laws in Reading, PA

In the same vein as an e-scooter, if you were riding a bicycle while struck by a motor vehicle, your damages may be reduced if you were breaking any biking laws at the time. Pennsylvania law treats bicycles as vehicles, so they are afforded more rights than e-scooters.

Bicyclists are permitted to ride on public roads, but no more than two cyclists can ride side-by-side. Additionally, riders must obey all traffic signals, and anyone under 12 must wear a helmet. Even if you believe your case is a slam dunk, you should speak with a personal injury attorney who can determine if you have a valid claim.

Contact a Reading Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Being hit while riding an e-scooter or bike can cause significant injuries. Unfortunately, motor vehicle drivers do not always check their surroundings carefully, resulting in crashes. The Reading personal injury attorneys at Fanelli, Evans, & Patel are devoted to helping accident victims recover the maximum possible compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. If you would like to schedule a free consultation with a Reading attorney, contact us online or call (484) 869-2113 today.