What Happens When you Break a Bird Scooter?

The answer depends on many factors, especially how the damage occurred. The law makes a clear distinction between accidental harm and intentional vandalism. 

In any event, you should document the circumstances surrounding the incident as thoroughly as possible. This includes making note of any problems you had with the scooter while in operation. 

What the fine print says 

Bird® makes the full text of its user’s agreement available on its website. It’s important to familiarize yourself with this document prior to operating one of the company’s scooters. Here are some of its key points: 

  • Extra passengers are forbidden: Bird® scooters are intended for solo users who are at least 18 years of age. 
  • Operators must take environmental factors into consideration prior to operating the scooter: Such as rain, fog, ice, and other adverse weather conditions. 
  • The operator must NOT be under the influence of alcohol or other performance-impairing substances: Including prescription formulas, over-the-counter medications, and illicit drugs. 
  • After use, the scooter must be left in an approved public place for retrieval: You should never leave a Bird® scooter in a locked area, on private property, or any place marked with NO TRESPASSING signs. 
  • Modifying the scooter in any way is disallowed: The scooter remains the property of Bird® at all times.  
  • Racing and stunt driving is absolutely prohibited: So is deliberately vandalizing the product, a practice known as “bird dropping.” 
  • Using the scooter to transport packages or luggage is forbidden: Bird® recommends against wearing a backpack or shoulder bag while operating the scooter. If you do so anyway, then you must assume the risks. 
  • Helmet laws apply: It’s always a good idea to wear a helmet while using any type of electric scooter, whether or not one is required in your community. 

Make sure you understand all of the clauses in the Bird® agreement and are willing to abide by them. Failure to do so may expose you to civil or even criminal penalties. 

What to do if you’re involved in a Bird® scooter accident 

There are always factors outside your control that can lead to a scooter accident. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation, whether or not you were the one operating the scooter at the time: 

  • Remember that your health and well-being always come first: Check yourself over for injuries, see a healthcare practitioner right away, and call emergency medical personnel to the scene if needed. 
  • Make every reasonable effort to assist anyone else who was involved in the incident: Such as rendering first aid or offering personal comfort. 
  • Document the events surrounding the accident: Remember to include any issues you noticed while using the scooter (if you were the operator), such as turning problems or brake failure. Talk to witnesses, take pictures of the damage, and note the weather conditions. 
  • Move the scooter (and any other involved vehicles) out of the way of traffic if practical: This will help to prevent further injuries and property damage. 
  • Inspect the surrounding area for factors that may have played a role in the accident: Such as potholes, wet spots, missing signs, or cracks in the pavement. Take pictures of any hazards you see. 
  • Contact law enforcement and remain at the scene: You will need an official police report later on when you’re weighing your legal options. 

What to do if you’re not to blame 

Not every scooter accident is caused by a negligent operator or a careless motorist. Bird® has a legal obligation to keep its products in proper working order. Other entities, such as local transit departments, also have obligations that may factor into the final outcome.  

Getting to the bottom of a complex legal matter is no job for laypeople. It’s a task best suited to Los Angeles scooter accident lawyers.  

With that in mind, how do you choose the best law firm to represent your interests? Here’s what to look for: 

  • The right experience: For example, here at Ellis injury Law, e-scooter accidents are one of our primary areas of focus. That kind of expertise can make all the difference to your case’s outcome. 
  • The right approach: Such as offering free consultations and contingency terms, both of which Ellis does as a matter of policy. 
  • The right track record: Here at Ellis Injury Law, our experienced attorneys have recovered more than $350 million for their clients over the years. Those are the kind of results that speak for themselves. 

Get in touch with e-scooter injury attorneys at Ellis Injury Law today if we can help you in any way. We’re available 24/7 for your convenience and all initial consultations are free.