Gainesville Scooter Accident Lawyer

With its warm, sunny weather and scenic vistas, Florida is a popular destination for people of all ages to ride Vespas, mopeds, and other small motorized vehicles. In addition to the enjoyment of riding through beautiful cityscapes and countryside, scooters bring a financial benefit because they are more economical than cars. Many students at the University of Florida use this method of transportation to commute around the campus and surrounding areas.

Unfortunately, scooter riders face many of the same dangers as motorcycle riders. The drivers of SUVs, trucks, or other large vehicles often have a difficult time seeing scooters, especially when they are distracted or driving under the influence of alcohol. Because scooters are even quieter than motorcycles, other drivers may also have difficulty hearing them.

At Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A., we represent University of Florida students and other scooter riders who have suffered serious or catastrophic injuries because of the negligence of other motorists. All of our Gainesville auto accident lawyers have extensive experience. Because we are a local firm, we also have an in-depth understanding of the Florida medical system and the courts in which the case may be litigated. We are here to advocate for you.

Florida’s Scooter Laws

Florida gives counties and cities the authority to enforce their own scooter rules through House Bill 453. This means that what Miami might allow might be illegal in another Florida city. 

In Gainesville specifically, local police treat e-scooters similar to bicycles and enforce restrictions such as:

• You can’t exceed 15 mph on the street
• You can’t park in bike lanes, driveways, vehicle parking spots, or business entryways
• You can’t park in a way that obstructs or blocks streets and sidewalks
• You can only rent a rental scooter between 6 am and 10 am

How Does Florida Define a Scooter? 

Florida law recognizes motorized scooters, motor scooters, and mopeds, each with different regulations and requirements: 

Do You Have to Wear a Helmet While Riding a Scooter? 

“Since the repeal of the helmet law in 2000, the number of fatal crashes for every 10,000 registered motorcycles increased by 21 percent, suggesting motorcyclists without helmets are more likely to suffer serious and fatal injuries.” — Chanyoung Lee, Ph.D., PTP (Center for Urban Transportation Research, University of South Florida)

Any person under age 16 must wear protective headgear meeting federal safety standards while riding any type of scooter per Florida Statute 316.211. For those aged 16 and older, helmets are not legally required but strongly recommended as any type of collision can easily lead to significant head and brain injuries. If operating anything over 50cc, helmets are required unless covered by insurance.  

In a case involving brain injuries or other damages, it is important to choose a lawyer who is highly familiar with the applicable laws. For instance, the scooter’s engine size determines the corresponding insurance policy. We understand the details of these policies and how to pursue maximum compensation for you.

Do You Need Insurance to Operate a Scooter in Florida? 

As mentioned previously, insurance requirements depend on the type of scooter you have:

For motor scooters with a seat, since they’re classified as motorcycles, operators must have a valid driver’s license. If the engine exceeds 50 cc, you’ll also need a motorcycle endorsement and insurance coverage. Florida requires minimum coverage of $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL). 

For motorized scooters on which you stand, no insurance is required. These vehicles can’t be titled or registered in Florida and are exempt from standard registration, insurance, and licensing requirements. 

However, even when insurance isn’t legally required, riding without coverage puts you at a serious financial risk. After a crash, you’re still responsible for any damages or injuries you cause. Getting insurance coverage is strongly recommended to avoid costly fines and costs. 

Common Causes of Scooter Accidents in Gainesville, FL

Scooter accidents can leave riders with serious injuries and increasing medical bills. Common factors that contribute to these dangerous crashes include: 

• Driver inexperience
• Scooter defects or maintenance issues
• Failure to yield right of way
• Unsafe turns (i.e., blind spots, left-hand turns)
• Distracted driving
• Road and Other Hazards (i.e., adverse weather, cracks, potholes)
• Negligent behavior
• Driving under the influence

If you’ve been involved in a scooter accident, our experienced attorneys can investigate the circumstances, determine liability, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. 

Common Injuries Caused by Scooter Accidents

Scooter riders are especially vulnerable to injury during accidents since they lack the protective features of larger vehicles. Without airbags, seatbelts, or structural protection, even minor collisions can result in significant trauma. The most common injuries include: 

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Concussions
• Road rash and abrasions
• Broken bones and fractures
• Spinal cord injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Internal organ damage
• Lacerations and burns
• Facial trauma

What to Do After a Scooter Accident

The moments following a scooter accident are critical. Taking the appropriate steps can protect your legal rights and strengthen your claim against negligent parties. Here’s what you should do: 

1. Prioritize Safety and Call for Help

Your immediate safety should be your first concern after a scooter accident. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further injury. Once you’re safe, check yourself for injuries, as adrenaline can often mask your pain.

Call 911 as soon as possible to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance if needed. Even if you feel your injuries are minor, being evaluated at the scene can boost your case. 

2. Gather Evidence at the Scene

Next, you’ll want to document as much as you possibly can at the scene of the accident. Take multiple photos of the accident location, your scooter, any other vehicles involved, road conditions, and your visible injuries. These visual records can provide evidence that could disappear within hours of the accident. 

Make detailed notes about how the accident happened while your memory is fresh. Speak to witnesses and collect their contact information for future reference. Florida Statute 316.062 requires all drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to provide their name, address, vehicle registration number, and driver’s license upon request.  

3. File a Police Report

Florida Statute 316.065 requires reporting accidents involving injury, death, or property damage of $500 or more. Depending on where the accident occurred, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency: 

• Gainesville Police Department
  • Call 352-955-1818
• Alachua County Sheriff
  • Call 352-367-4000
• Florida Highway Patrol
  • Call 352-955-1960

When speaking with law enforcement, provide detailed information about the accident without speculating about who was at fault. This official report will be used by insurance companies and in court if a case is filed. Officers may also conduct their own investigation by reviewing traffic cameras or interviewing additional witnesses. 

4. Seek Medical Attention and Document Injuries

If you have any injuries, get a medical evaluation immediately. This is especially important as some serious conditions like concussions can continue to worsen without proper treatment. Document everything related to your medical care: 

• Keep all appointment records
• Save prescriptions and medication receipts
• Take photos of visible injuries as they progress

Be sure to follow all treatment recommendations for the best recovery outcome.  

5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

Before speaking with an insurance adjuster, contact an experienced scooter accident attorney. Adjusters are trained to minimize payouts by getting you to accept quick, low settlements or by using your statements against you. 

An attorney familiar with Florida’s scooter laws can: 

• Evaluate the true value of your claim
• Handle communications with insurance companies
• Gather additional evidence to support your case
• Ensure all deadlines are met
• Negotiate for maximum compensation or represent you at trial if necessary

At Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A., our Gainesville scooter accident lawyers offer free consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options. 

Meet the Scooter Accident Attorneys Who Will Fight for Your Rights

When you’re injured in a scooter accident, having the right legal team by your side can make a big difference in your recovery and compensation. At Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A., our attorneys bring decades of combined experience to every case we handle. Here’s who you can count on: 

• Jack Fine brings almost 50 years of legal expertise to his cases. Beginning his career as a public defender, Jack has developed thorough knowledge of the Alachua County court system. As a former instructor of trial practice at the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law, he combines academic excellence with practical courtroom wisdom that benefits our clients. 
• Cherie Hoch Fine has dedicated over 43 years to practicing law in our community. Her leadership as past president of the local bar association reflects her commitment to legal excellence and professional integrity. 
• Julie Aleve Fine contributes valuable perspective from her 12 years in law, including experience as a former state attorney. Her current role on the Florida Justice Association board demonstrates her ongoing commitment to protecting accident victims’ rights. 

We’re also proud to have worked alongside former chief judge of Alachua County, Martha Ann Lott, before her retirement. She brought a wealth of judicial wisdom to our team, allowing us to better represent our clients. 

Additionally, former firm member, Jonathan Ramsey, was recently appointed as an Alachua County Judge by Governor DeSantis. Not only is this a testament to the high regard in which our team is held locally, but it’s also an acknowledgement of the state’s leaders recognizing the talent and potential in people associated with our Gainesville law firm.

When you choose to work with Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A., you’re not just getting attorneys–you’re getting dedicated legal partners who understand Gainesville’s laws and how they affect scooter accident cases across our community. 

How Long Do You Have to File a Scooter Accident Claim in Florida? 

According to Florida Statute 95.11, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries. This applies to most personal injury claims, including those involving scooter accidents. 

This same two-year limitation applies in situations where a loved one has died in a fatal scooter accident. If families do not file a wrongful death claim within this timeframe, they risk losing their right to seek compensation. 

That being said, there are certain exceptions to this rule, which is why it’s best to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident. 

What Compensation Can You Receive After a Scooter Accident?

After a scooter accident in Gainesville, victims can face significant financial and personal challenges during their recovery. Florida law allows injured individuals to pursue different types of compensation to address these hardships. 

One of the biggest damages one can recover is medical expenses. These expenses cover all reasonable healthcare costs related to your injuries, including emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care needs. These mounting expenses can quickly become overwhelming for accident victims.

Other damages you may be able to pursue include: 

• Lost earnings and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life

In cases involving extreme negligence or intentionally wrongful conduct, punitive damages may be available. These damages were created to punish particularly egregious behavior and deter similar conduct in the future.  

Free Consultation With Our Gainesville Motor Scooter Accident Attorneys

If you or a family member was injured in a scooter or moped accident in Florida, schedule a free initial consultation with a licensed attorney at Fine, Farkash & Parlapiano, P.A. Simply call our Gainesville office at 352-372-7777 or contact us online. We charge no fees of any kind unless we recover money for you.