5 steps to take after an e-bike accident
1. Prioritise safety and seek medical attention
- Ensure safety: Move to a safe location to avoid further injury.
- Seek medical care: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor, as some injuries may take time to appear.
2. Collect evidence at the accident scene
- Gather information: Take note of all parties’ names, addresses, and contact details.
- Photographic evidence: Capture images of the accident scene, injuries, and damage from multiple angles.
- Witness details: If there are witnesses, obtain their contact details.
- Official records: If available, secure copies of Garda reports and medical records related to the incident.
3. Report the accident to the GardaÃ
- Legal requirement: You must report the accident, no matter how minor.
- If the Gardaà do not attend, Visit the nearest station to file a report and ensure the incident is officially recorded.
4. Notify your insurance provider
- Timely reporting: Inform your insurer immediately, even if you were not at fault.
- Policy compliance: Some policies require immediate notification to ensure coverage.
5. Consult an e-scooter accident claim solicitor
- Legal guidance: A solicitor can help you navigate the claims process and avoid unnecessary delays.
- Compensation assessment: Your solicitor will evaluate your case and guide you through the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) process.
Have you been injured by an e-bike?
Common ways people are injured by negligent use of e-scooters/e-bikes are as follows:
- Being hit by a vehicle while crossing the road
- Injuries caused by a vehicle being ridden on the path or an e-scooter in the cycle lane
- MPVs that have been altered to travel at unsafe speeds
- Tripping over e-scooters that have been left on paths
- Hit-and-runs involving e-bikes/e-scooters
If you are injured in an accident with an e-bike/e-scooter, could you get the names and contact details of any other parties involved? It can be challenging to identify e-scooter/e-bike riders as they don’t have registration plates, but if you could not collect these details, a solicitor can assist you in tracking them down. Your case may differ depending on whether the vehicle was privately owned or rented. If it was rented, both the driver and insurer will be notified of your claim. If it was a privately owned uninsured scooter, the defendant will likely be the Motor Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI).
What makes e-bikes/e-scooters different?
These vehicles differ from traditional bikes and scooters as they are propelled by a motor attached to their frame in combination with the physical movements of the rider. These vehicles have become more prevalent in recent years, increasing accidents involving e-bike or e-scooter riders. If you have been involved in an accident involving an e-bike or e-scooter and the other party was at fault, you may be able to claim compensation.
Understanding the claims process
- Initial consultation – A solicitor will assess the viability of your e-scooter accident claim.
- Gathering evidence – Medical records, Garda reports, and witness statements will be collected.
- Submitting to PIAB – A formal application will be filed, supported by necessary documentation.
- PIAB assessment—The PIAB will determine compensation, which can be accepted or, if disputed, may lead to court proceedings.
Factors influencing e-scooter accident claims
- Severity of injuries – More serious injuries generally result in higher compensation.
- Financial losses include medical costs, lost earnings, and rehabilitation expenses.
- Impact on daily life – Consider how injuries affect work and personal activities.
Statute of Limitations
You have two years from the accident date within which to issue proceedings. If you are under 18, a separate set of rules apply, and we recommend that you contact our solicitors to talk about these. You can click here to learn more about the statute of limitation for an e-scooter accident claim.
Safety tips for e-scooter users
- Wear protective gear – Helmets, knee, and elbow pads can help prevent serious injuries.
- Follow traffic rules – Adhere to road laws, speed limits, and traffic signals.
- Stay alert – Be mindful of road conditions, pedestrians, and other vehicles.
By following these steps, you can ensure the proper handling of an e-scooter accident and protect your rights.
How can you register an e-bike with no license plate?
The manufacturer of your MPV should provide you with a COC document. This document declares that the MPV is compliant with the given approved type. You can only use your MPV on private property if you cannot obtain a COC document.
