Accidents Involving Special Vehicles: Legal Rights, Risks, and Remedies

Accidents involving special vehicles such as e-bikes, electric scooters, golf carts, and even unconventional recreational vehicles like bumper cars are becoming increasingly common. 

These vehicles offer convenience and entertainment but come with unique risks and legal complexities. It’s important to note that just because these vehicles are distinct from everyday cars and trucks, it doesn’t make the associated accidents and injuries any less serious.

Legal Rights After E-Bike and Electric Scooter Accidents

The Rise of E-Bike and Electric Scooter Accidents

In recent years, the popularity of electric bikes (e-bikes) and scooters has surged due to their convenience, affordability, and environmental benefits. Many cities have developed local programs that offer these vehicles to commuters and tourists for easy, green use around town. However, this rise has been accompanied by a notable increase in accidents. Common causes include:

• Riders navigating heavy traffic or poorly maintained roads
• Vehicle malfunctions due to manufacturing defects or lack of maintenance
• Negligent behavior by riders, pedestrians, or other motorists

Victims' Legal Rights

Victims involved in e-bike and electric scooter accidents are entitled to legal protections, including the right to seek compensation for their damages, including: 

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Depending on the circumstances, victims may file a personal injury claim against a negligent party, such as another rider, a motorist, or even the vehicle’s manufacturer.

If you are involved in an accident, the steps you take in the aftermath of the incident are very important to ensure that you protect your rights and your ability to pursue compensation.

Following an accident, you should always prioritize your health and safety and seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked, as some injuries don’t show symptoms right away and can worsen over time. This will also establish a medical record that can be used as evidence for insurance claims and lawsuits.

If you are able to before leaving the scene of the accident, document everything. Take photos and videos of the accident site, injuries, and any damaged property. Collect contact details of involved parties and witnesses.

File a police report and notify the vehicle’s rental company if applicable.

Next, contact Morgan & Morgan. Legal guidance ensures proper handling of claims and negotiations with insurers.

Golf Cart Accidents and Legal Implications

Common Causes and Injuries

Golf carts, often perceived as low-risk vehicles, can lead to severe injuries in certain scenarios—or even death.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are approximately 15,000 golf cart related injuries requiring emergency room treatment in the United States each year. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a team at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia investigated golf cart-related injuries in children and adolescents and found the number of injuries has increased to more than 6,500 each year in the past few years, with just over half of the injuries in those ages 12 and younger.

Accidents commonly occur due to:

• Overturning on uneven terrain
• Collisions with other vehicles or stationary objects
• Driver inexperience or negligence
• Lack of safety features like seatbelts
• Speeding
• Other drivers ignoring the cart as a vehicle

Typical injuries include:

• Bone fractures
• Concussions
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Bruising
• Spinal cord injuries
• Eye injuries
• Neck injuries
• Whiplash
• Cuts and abrasions
• Traumatic brain injury
• Soft tissue injuries

Legal Considerations for Golf Cart Accidents

Victims of golf cart accidents should understand their rights and options:

• Liability: Liability may fall on the driver, the owner of the golf cart, or even the manufacturer if defects contributed to the accident.
• Compensation: Victims can seek damages for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and emotional distress.
• Insurance: Check whether the golf cart is covered under a homeowner’s policy or a specialized insurance plan.

If you or a loved one has experienced a golf cart accident, you can contact Morgan & Morgan to learn more about your legal options. 

Though golf carts are smaller than a car, they are still motorized vehicles capable of causing accidents with serious injuries and should be treated just like any other car accident that happens. 

In the event of a golf carting accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. However, don’t hold off on seeking a personal injury attorney at Morgan & Morgan. Your personal injury attorney will not only evaluate the case, but also:

• Find out whether the golf cart is properly insured
• Properly file a claim
• What the gold cart’s issued use was (road, or just inside a community or complex)
• Receiving deserved compensation for your injuries
• Knowing your rights with insurance companies

The sooner you hire a personal injury attorney, the sooner the case can be evaluated and the quicker they can issue action and accountability for those involved.

Injuries Related to Go-Karts, Bumper Cars, and Unconventional Vehicles

Recreational Vehicle Injuries

Unconventional vehicles, such as bumper cars and go-karts, can cause unexpected injuries. Common incidents include:

• Collisions resulting in whiplash or fractures.
• Faulty equipment leading to severe harm.
• Operator negligence or failure to follow safety protocols.

Potential for Personal Injury Claims

Victims of recreational vehicle accidents may have grounds for personal injury claims based on:

• Negligence by ride operators or facility owners.
• Equipment malfunctions due to inadequate maintenance.
• Failure to provide sufficient safety warnings.

Liability and Safety Standards

Facilities offering amusement rides must adhere to strict safety regulations. Victims may hold operators accountable if:

• Safety inspections were skipped.
• Riders were not provided with proper instructions.
• The equipment was knowingly faulty or outdated.

Dangers Associated With Used or Neglected Vehicles

Risks of Second-Hand or Poorly Maintained Vehicles

Unconventional vehicles like golf carts, electric scooters, and other personal mobility devices are becoming increasingly popular for their convenience and eco-friendliness. However, if you're purchasing or riding a used or neglected vehicle, you may be putting yourself at significant risk.

While buying used or renting older vehicles may save you money, it can also come with hidden dangers. Here are the primary risks to watch out for:

Mechanical Failures

Secondhand vehicles often have wear and tear from previous use. Without proper maintenance or inspection, you could encounter issues like:

• Brake failures: A common issue in older or neglected vehicles, which can lead to loss of control.
• Battery malfunctions: Electric scooters and golf carts rely on batteries that degrade over time. A poorly maintained battery may die unexpectedly or even catch fire.
• Steering problems: Misaligned or damaged steering mechanisms can make it impossible to maneuver safely.

Safety Features May Be Missing or Outdated

Modern vehicles are equipped with safety features such as seat belts, lights, and warning indicators. Older models, or those purchased secondhand, may lack these essentials. For example:

• A used golf cart may not have functioning headlights, making it dangerous to use at night.
• An electric scooter may lack reflective materials or proper braking systems, increasing the risk of accidents in low-visibility conditions.

Structural Integrity Concerns

Unconventional vehicles are often lightweight and designed for specific uses. When these vehicles are neglected or improperly maintained, their structural integrity may be compromised.

• Golf carts: Damaged frames or worn tires can increase the chance of tipping over, especially when turning corners or carrying heavy loads.
• Electric scooters: Cracks or bends in the frame may fail under stress, causing riders to fall.

Lack of Regulatory Oversight for Private Sales

Unlike cars, unconventional vehicles often have little to no regulatory oversight during resale. This means sellers are not always required to disclose mechanical issues, leaving buyers unaware of potential problems.

Steps to Take to Prevent Injury

To minimize risks associated with preowned vehicles, you should:

Inspect Before Riding

• Check the brakes, tires, steering, and lights before using any unconventional vehicle.

• For electric vehicles, ensure the battery is in good condition and does not show signs of leakage or overheating.

Purchase From Reputable Sellers
When buying a used vehicle, opt for certified pre-owned options or purchase from reputable dealers who conduct thorough inspections.

Stick to Manufacturer Guidelines
Always adhere to the manufacturer's weight limits and usage recommendations. Using the vehicle outside its intended scope increases the likelihood of failure.

Regular Maintenance
Schedule routine maintenance for any personal vehicle, even if it’s only used occasionally. Proper care can extend the lifespan of the vehicle and prevent accidents.

Use Protective Gear
Always wear helmets and other safety gear, particularly when riding electric scooters or similar devices. Golf cart riders should use seat belts if available.

Proving Liability and Seeking Compensation

Incidents involving ATVs, golf carts, electric scooters, or even horse-drawn carriages—present unique challenges. 

Unlike traditional car accidents, these cases often involve less-regulated vehicles, specialized laws, and unique scenarios that complicate liability. 

Key Elements Required to Prove Liability in Unconventional Vehicle Accident Cases

Proving liability in any personal injury case involves demonstrating negligence. In unconventional vehicle accidents, this process includes several essential elements:

1. Duty of Care

Every individual operating a vehicle—whether it’s a golf cart, scooter, or ATV—has a legal duty to act reasonably to avoid causing harm. Establishing the duty of care involves showing that the responsible party had an obligation to ensure safety.

2. Breach of Duty

The injured party must show that the responsible party breached this duty by acting negligently. Examples might include speeding on an ATV, operating a golf cart while intoxicated, or failing to maintain a horse-drawn carriage properly.

3. Causation

The plaintiff must prove that the breach of duty directly caused their injuries. This often requires evidence like eyewitness accounts, accident reports, or video footage to establish a clear connection between the negligent act and the harm suffered.

4. Damages

Finally, the plaintiff must demonstrate that they suffered measurable damages—such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or property damage—as a result of the accident.

Challenges Unique to Unconventional Vehicle Accidents

Unconventional vehicle accidents pose additional hurdles, including:

• Ambiguity in Laws: Laws governing vehicles like e-scooters or ATVs vary widely by state or municipality, making it crucial to understand the applicable regulations.
• Limited Insurance Coverage: Unlike cars, many unconventional vehicles may not require insurance, complicating compensation claims.
• Manufacturer Defects: In some cases, liability may extend to the vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the accident.

How Legal Representation Can Help

Navigating the complexities of unconventional vehicle accident cases requires skilled legal representation. Here’s how an attorney at Morgan & Morgan can help:

Collecting Evidence

An experienced attorney knows how to gather critical evidence to build a strong case. This may include investigating accident scenes, obtaining surveillance footage, and consulting with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists.

Navigating Legal Complexities

Morgan & Morgan’s attorneys understand the nuances of laws governing unconventional vehicles. We can identify liable parties, including operators, manufacturers, or property owners. And with offices in every state across the country, we will always have local legal experts who can interpret state and local regulations to bolster your claim.

Negotiating With Insurers

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, especially in cases involving unconventional vehicles. Morgan & Morgan can negotiate assertively with insurers to ensure fair compensation and fight against lowball offers or claims denials.

Pursuing Compensation in Court

If negotiations fail, your attorney can take the case to court. As the nation’s largest personal injury law firm, Morgan & Morgan has an army of over 1,000 trial-ready lawyers prepared to fight to the finish. 

They can present compelling arguments to demonstrate liability and advocate for the maximum compensation you need and deserve to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Steps to Take Immediately After an Accident Involving Alternative Vehicles

If you've been injured in an accident involving an unconventional vehicle, there are several steps you can take to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. 

Your health is the top priority—first and foremost. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s important to see a doctor as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical care not only ensures your well-being but also creates important documentation for any future legal claim.

If the accident is serious, call 911 right away. For car accidents or injuries in public places, law enforcement will create a report that will serve as a key piece of evidence. For workplace injuries, notify your employer as soon as possible to ensure you are covered by workers' compensation.

If you are able, gather evidence at the scene. Take pictures of the accident scene, including any hazards, vehicles, or other elements that contributed to the injury. Get the contact information of anyone who saw the accident occur. Their testimony could be valuable later on. Also, ask for a copy of the police or incident report if one is created.

Be cautious when discussing the accident with others, especially insurance companies. Even casual comments can be used against you later. Stick to the facts and avoid apologizing or admitting fault.

If applicable, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid giving a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer first.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities, protect your rights, and pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Morgan & Morgan has extensive experience in helping accident victims and can assist you with your claim.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

The amount of time you have to file a personal injury claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state and the specifics of your case. However, some exceptions may apply, such as in cases involving minors, government entities, or when the injury wasn’t discovered right away.

It's important to file your claim as soon as possible to preserve your legal rights. Failing to file within the statute of limitations could result in your case being dismissed, meaning you may lose the opportunity to recover compensation for your injuries.

Since deadlines can vary by state and situation, it's best to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the incident to understand the specific timeline for your case. An attorney can help ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

Contact Morgan & Morgan for Help

Accidents involving special vehicles present unique challenges but also opportunities for victims to seek justice and compensation. Whether it’s an e-bike crash, a golf cart collision, or an injury on a recreational vehicle, Morgan & Morgan can help you to protect your legal rights.

Morgan & Morgan is the nation’s largest personal injury law firm, with over $23 billion recovered for our clients. Our attorneys have decades of experience handling unique vehicle accident cases, and we have the resources to take on large insurance companies and corporations.

Plus, there are no upfront fees to work with us. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. That’s right—the Fee Is Free®, and you only pay if we win.

Morgan & Morgan stands ready to help victims navigate these complexities and secure the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Our team will review your case, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process.