New Brunswick E-Scooter Accident Lawyers
Electronic kick scooters (or “e-scooters”) have risen in popularity throughout Canada, offering a convenient, low-cost recreational activity and mode of transportation. As New Brunswick moves to increase micromobility in their cities, e-scooters serve as an excellent option for those seeking to lower their ecological footprint.
The governing and safety of e-scooters has become a growing concern across New Brunswick, the cities of Moncton and Saint John working on municipal by-laws and pushing for electronic kick scooters to be classified in the Motor Vehicle Act. The present lack of cohesive laws may lead to questions and concerns if you or a loved one have been involved in an e-scooter accident.
At Nova Injury Law, our lawyers understand the complex legal distinctions pertaining to e-scooters in New Brunswick. Our team is equipped to address your queries and prepared to build a strong legal case as you focus on your recovery.
What to Do After an E-Scooter Accident in New Brunswick
- Immediately after a scooter accident, irrespective of your involvement, you should contact emergency services.
- File a police report. If an accident results in personal injury or property damage exceeding $2,000, New Brunswick’s Motor Vehicle Act requires that it be reported to the police. It is advisable that you report an accident regardless to have an official record of the event.
- You may need Emergency Health Services or hospital care for acute injuries. Seeking prompt medical assessment is strongly advised to protect your wellbeing and to ensure that the nature and extent of your injuries are properly documented.
- Throughout the process, preserve any and all applicable evidence.
- Contact a lawyer. NOVA Injury Law is available 24/7 by phone or email, so it is never too early or too late to contact us about your case. The earlier you seek legal assistance, the lower your chances of missing important deadlines for legal action, and the sooner you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.
What Kind of Documentation Should I Take?
At the scene of the accident,
- Take pictures of where the accident happened, what state the scooter and other vehicles are in, the visibility of the area, and anything else that seems relevant.
- Talk to witnesses. Third parties may be able to shed light on what happened and can confirm your account of what happened. Get both their statements and their contact information for later use.
Following the accident,
- Photograph injuries. Written records of what happened are useful, but photographic evidence can be more visceral and impactful for tying the incident to the medical conditions that come as a result.
- Get help. Ask friends and family to take pictures or talk to witnesses if you’re physically unable, get treatment from medical experts, and consult legal experts on how to proceed with your claim.
- Keep medical documentation. Doctor’s notes, test results, prescriptions, treatment plans, and receipts for any expenses are all examples of documentation that help show the extent of your injuries.
- Insurance records. Keep copies of all communications with your insurance provider. These records help track what was reported, when it was reported, and how the insurer responded. Evidence of these communications will show you have done your due diligence if any issues arise.
Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents in New Brunswick
E-scooter accidents in New Brunswick occur due to a combination of rider behavior, roadway conditions, and the actions of others on the road. Understanding the most frequent causes can help injured riders identify what went wrong and determine whether negligence played a role. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted or speeding drivers who fail to notice e-scooter riders
- Rider inexperience or unsafe operation, such as sudden swerving or failing to signal
- Poor road conditions, including potholes, uneven pavement, or inadequate lighting
- Mechanical defects like brake failures, battery issues, or malfunctioning throttles
- Blocked bike lanes or unsafe infrastructure that forces riders into traffic
- Dooring incidents, where a vehicle occupant opens a door into the rider’s path
What is Negligence and How Does It Impact My Case?
Negligence, in legal terms, is the failure to exercise caution or care that would have otherwise prevented injury or harm to another party. Determining negligence in an accident is how your legal team establishes liability; the element(s) responsible for the damages caused in an accident. “Damages” can include physical injury, financial losses and damage to property.
The party found liable is responsible for compensation of damages in your personal injury claim. Your legal team calculates the full value of your losses, negotiates with insurance companies, and, if necessary, presents the case in court to pursue fair compensation. The goal is to ensure you are fully compensated for both the immediate impact of the accident and any long-term consequences you may face. We stress the importance of documentation for the purposes of establishing fault, as this evidence will strengthen your claim.
The Logistics: Long-Term Recovery and Navigating the Claims Process
The obstacles following a serious injury do not end at the healing process. You may need time off work, while expensing unexpected medical care in tandem. You can fund necessary treatment by filing insurance claims when coverage applies. The lawyers at NOVA are practiced in navigating insurance and disability claims for clients. Arranging loans for treatment recovery, to be repaid when the claim succeeds, is also a possibility, as we know how important it is to get timely treatment. The compensation we can garner for you from a liable party can make the difference in being able to access the necessary treatment services for a proper recovery.
What Insurance Coverage Am I Entitled to in an E-Scooter Accident?
Motorized scooters and e-bikes in New Brunswick aren’t required to carry insurance, which can make recovering compensation more complicated. Coverage may come from the at-fault rider’s insurance, your own policy, or through a legal claim depending on the circumstances of your accident.
Because each insurance policy has unique rules and exceptions, we recommend contacting our legal team to fully understand and maximize your coverage. Allow us to guide you through your next steps with confidence.
Understanding the Timeline for Insurance Claims
Vehicle insurance requires you to submit an accident benefits claim within 30 days. Short-term disability (STD) benefits can be applied for immediately, while long-term disability (LTD) usually has a waiting period of three to six months.
Keep in mind that long-term disability (LTD) coverage is work-related and separate from vehicle insurance. Our team can help you understand what qualifies for LTD and guide you through the process to secure ongoing support if you are unable to work.
Deadlines for Legal Action
If your claim and appeal are denied, the next action may be a lawsuit. There is generally a limitation period of 2 years after the accident to start legal proceedings, though time spent incapacitated or before the age of 19 does not count. While there are some exceptions, the best strategy is to file an action as soon as possible to avoid losing the right to bring your claim forward.
How Our New Brunswick E-Scooter Accident Lawyers Can Help
Contingency Plan
Concerned about legal fees? We understand the burden of juggling expenses after an accident. With our contingency plan, you don’t pay unless we win. Let healing be your priority as we make your case ours.
Legal and Medical in one Place
NOVA Injury Law’s Doctor-Lawyer Firm™ provides in-house medical insight, guiding every step of your claim. This unique method allows us to identify the full extent of your injuries, anticipate long-term complications, and present clear, persuasive medical evidence that meets legal standards. This collaboration between physician and lawyer strengthens your case, helps counter insurance company tactics, and ensures that the impact of your injuries is fully understood and properly valued.
Strong Cases, Faster Resolutions
A skilled lawyer, like those found at NOVA, is often able to resolve the matter before proceeding to trial, decreasing legal fees and getting you your money sooner. Well-written claims, relevant evidence, and quality negotiations can result in larger or quicker settlements than otherwise achievable, while still preparing for a trial if one is necessary.
Navigating E-Scooter Laws
E-Scooter regulations in New Brunswick, and throughout Canada, are new and still evolving. We stay informed on the latest municipal and provincial laws, and are confident in building a strong, detailed case for your personal situation.
Experience and Competence
By combining empathy, dedication and knowledge for the people we serve, our team at Nova Injury has accrued over $50,000,000 for 1,500+ clients. Let our client testimonies tell you more about what we can do for you.
Call a New Brunswick E-Scooter Accident Lawyer Today
Have you been injured in a e-scooter accident in New Brunswick? Don’t wait. Contact NOVA’s personal injury lawyers for a free case consultation and a strategy tailored to your needs. We’ll guide you every step of the way to help secure the compensation you deserve. Reach us online or call 902-709-1490 today!
