Whether you were riding a motorized scooter or struck by a negligent driver while commuting through Charleston, you may be facing painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and time away from work. Call (304) 720-6700 or message Tiano O’Dell, PLLC today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your scooter accident claim.
Why Choose Us
- We have decades of experience handling complex personal injury and motor vehicle accident cases throughout West Virginia.
- We prepare every case for trial from the beginning, which strengthens negotiations and protects your right to full compensation.
- We treat every client with respect and provide focused attention to ensure no detail is overlooked.
Our Results
Our firm has recovered substantial results in serious injury and vehicle-related cases, including:
- $10 million settlement for a traumatic brain injury case involving catastrophic harm.
- $3 million settlement for a tractor-trailer crash case involving severe injuries.
- $1.5 million settlement for a premises liability fall case involving serious injury.
Common Causes of Scooter Accidents
Scooter riders are especially vulnerable because they lack the protection of a passenger vehicle. Many accidents occur because drivers fail to recognize or respect scooter riders on the road. Common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield at intersections.
- Distracted driving, including texting behind the wheel.
- Unsafe lane changes or merging into scooter lanes.
- Speeding in residential or downtown areas.
- Opening car doors into the path of a rider.
- Poorly maintained roads with potholes or debris.
Even a low-speed collision can result in significant injuries.
Injuries in Scooter Accidents
Because scooter riders have little physical protection, injuries are often severe. Victims may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries.
- Broken bones and fractures.
- Road rash and severe lacerations.
- Spinal cord injuries.
- Internal bleeding.
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement.
Many of these injuries require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
Liability in West Virginia Scooter Accidents
Establishing fault requires a thorough investigation and careful documentation of evidence. Liability may fall on:
- Negligent drivers who caused the collision.
- Property owners who failed to maintain safe premises.
- Government entities responsible for hazardous road conditions.
- Manufacturers of defective scooter parts.
West Virginia follows a modified comparative negligence rule under West Virginia Code §55-7-13a. You may recover damages as long as you are less than 50 percent at fault for the accident. Any compensation awarded is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Compensation Available After a Scooter Accident
If you were injured in a scooter accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care and ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Permanent disability or impairment.
- Property damage to your scooter and any other personal property.
Accurately calculating damages is critical, especially when injuries have long-term effects. A Charleston, WV scooter accident attorney can help determine your claim’s value.
How a Charleston Scooter Accident Lawyer Can Help
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize scooter accident claims or argue that riders assumed the risk. A Charleston Scooter Accident Lawyer is critical to protect your rights. A Charleston, WV scooter accident attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and gather police reports, witness statements, and video evidence.
- Work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries.
- Identify all responsible parties and available insurance coverage.
- Negotiate aggressively for full and fair compensation.
- Prepare your case for trial if a fair settlement is not offered.
Contact Us Today
Call (304) 720-6700 or contact Tiano O’Dell, PLLC online today to schedule a free consultation with a Charleston, West Virginia scooter accident lawyer and discuss your options.
