Shared Electric Scooters in California: Who Is Liable When a Rental Ride Goes Wrong?

Electric scooters have become a common sight across California cities, offering a fast, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly way to get around. Although large national brands once dominated the market, many of these companies have scaled back their operations, allowing local and regional scooter rental providers to fill the gap. These new companies often utilize app-based systems similar to those of Bird or Lime, enabling riders to unlock scooters quickly and travel short distances.

However, as scooter rentals continue to spread throughout California, so do the accidents and injuries associated with them. At National Injury Help, our San Diego County personal injury attorneys have seen how quickly a fun, convenient ride can turn dangerous when safety standards are ignored or equipment malfunctions. When a rental scooter crash occurs, determining who is responsible can be complicated, leaving injured riders and pedestrians unsure of their legal options.

Understanding How Electric Scooter Rentals Work

Most scooter rental services in California operate through mobile apps that allow users to unlock, ride, and park scooters for a small fee. Riders can find scooters on sidewalks or in designated parking areas and pay by the minute. While this convenience makes scooters popular among commuters and tourists, it also raises significant safety and liability concerns.

Rental companies typically require users to agree to lengthy terms of service before riding. These contracts often include disclaimers that limit the company’s liability if a rider is injured, even if the scooter was defective or poorly maintained. Riders may not realize that by accepting these terms, they could be waiving certain legal rights in the event of an accident.

Common Causes of Scooter Accidents in California

Scooter accidents can happen almost anywhere, from busy urban streets to quiet residential areas. Some result from rider mistakes, while others stem from poor maintenance or unsafe road conditions.

The most common causes include:

• Poorly maintained or defective scooters.
• Malfunctioning brakes, steering mechanisms, or throttles.
• Drivers failing to yield or check blind spots.
• Riders unfamiliar with scooter operation or traffic laws.
• Obstructions, potholes, or uneven pavement.
• Inadequate lighting or visibility in high-traffic areas.

Even at low speeds, a collision or fall can cause serious injuries. Riders frequently suffer broken bones, dental injuries, concussions, or severe abrasions. In the most serious cases, head or spinal cord trauma can lead to permanent disability.

Determining Liability After a California Scooter Accident

Establishing who is responsible for a scooter accident requires careful investigation. Several parties may share liability depending on the circumstances.

• The Rental Company: If the scooter was defective, poorly maintained, or lacked safety warnings, the rental company may be held responsible.
• The Scooter Manufacturer: Defective parts or flawed designs can make manufacturers liable under product liability law.
• Other Motorists: Drivers who collide with scooters due to careless or distracted behavior may share responsibility for the damages.
• The City or Property Owner: Poor road maintenance, inadequate signage, or unsafe pathways can create liability for the city or property owner.

Because multiple parties may be involved, victims often need experienced legal representation to identify the responsible entities and pursue compensation.

What California Law Says About Electric Scooter Use

Under California Vehicle Code Section 21235, scooter riders are required to follow specific safety rules. Riders must be at least 16 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and obey the same traffic laws that apply to other motor vehicles. Helmets are required for minors and strongly recommended for adults. Scooters are not permitted on sidewalks and must operate in bike lanes or the far-right side of the roadway when possible.

While these laws aim to promote safety, they do not address every situation. The rise of privately owned and locally operated rental companies has created gray areas in liability and enforcement. When accidents occur, legal outcomes often depend on the specific facts of the case and the language of the rental agreement.

How National Injury Help Protects Scooter Accident Victims

At National Injury Help, we represent injured riders, pedestrians, and motorists across California who have been harmed in scooter accidents involving both major and local rental companies. Our attorneys conduct comprehensive investigations, review maintenance logs, and analyze user agreements to determine who should be held accountable for any issues that arise.

If you or someone you love has been injured while riding or struck by a rental scooter in California, contact National Injury Help today for a free consultation. Our San Diego personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation to which you are entitled.