A scooter accident can have serious consequences. Scooter riders are vulnerable in traffic and often sustain serious injuries in a collision. Yet many victims are unclear about liability, compensation, and the steps they need to take after a scooter accident.
In this comprehensive article we explain what your rights are in the event of a scooter accident personal injury, who is liable and which damages you can recover. You will also read what you should do immediately to safeguard your position.
How often does personal injury occur in scooter accidents?
Scooter accidents are common in the Netherlands, especially in urban areas. Due to the combination of speed, limited protection and heavy traffic, scooter riders relatively often sustain injuries. Examples include fractures, head injuries, abrasions, or lasting symptoms.
Who is liable in a scooter accident?
In the event of a scooter accident the liability depends on the situation. In practice, we distinguish several scenarios.
Scooter hit by a car
If you, as a scooter rider, are hit by a car, enhanced protection often applies. The motorist is in many cases (largely) liable, even if you yourself were not entirely blameless.
You can read more about this on our page vulnerable road users.
Accident between a scooter and a cyclist
In a collision between a scooter and a cyclist, each party’s traffic fault is assessed. Because neither is driving a car, there is no automatic protection as in a car-scooter accident.
Single-vehicle scooter accident
In a single-vehicle accident, for example due to slippery conditions or a steering error, there is often no liable opposing party. In that case, a SVI coverage or another insurance policy may offer a solution.
Scooter accident and contributory negligence
Insurers regularly assert that the scooter rider is at fault, for example for speeding or not wearing a helmet. Contributory negligence can affect the amount of compensation, but does not necessarily lead to rejection of the claim.
This is precisely why legal assistance is important.
Which types of personal injury are common in scooter accidents?
In scooter accident personal injury we often see the following types of injuries:
- fractures of the arms, legs, or collarbone;
- head and brain injuries;
- whiplash symptoms;
- knee and wrist injuries;
- permanent scars;
- psychological symptoms such as anxiety in traffic.
What damages can you claim after a scooter accident?
After a scooter accident, you can claim various types of damages. This does not only concern medical expenses.
Material damage
- costs of medical treatment;
- travel expenses;
- costs for household help;
- damage to clothing or helmet;
- damage to the scooter.
Loss of income
Are you temporarily or permanently unable to work due to the accident? Then you can claim loss of income. Also “loss of earning capacity” may be eligible for compensation.
Pain and suffering
In addition, you are often entitled to pain and suffering compensation: compensation for pain, sorrow, and loss of enjoyment of life. You can read more about this on our page pain and suffering compensation in personal injury cases.
What should you do after a scooter accident?
After a scooter accident it is important to take the right steps immediately. This increases your chances of full compensation.
- seek medical help and have the injuries documented;
- call the police if there are injuries or a dispute;
- record the details of those involved and witnesses;
- take photos of the situation and damage;
- keep medical and financial documents;
- seek legal advice.
You can also find more general information on our page personal injury lawyer.
What if the other party is unknown or uninsured?
Has the other party driven off or uninsured? Then the Waarborgfonds Motorverkeer can in some cases compensate for damage. Your own insurance can also offer a solution.
Statute of limitations for scooter personal injury
A claim for damages due to scooter accident personal injury usually becomes time-barred after five years from the moment you know who is liable and that you have suffered loss.
Different rules apply to minors. Therefore, do not wait too long.
Does legal assistance cost me money?
In personal injury cases, the costs of legal assistance are in most cases recovered from the liable party or their insurer. As a result, you as the victim do not bear any net financial risk.
Why choose Arslan Advocaten?
We have extensive experience with cases involving scooter accident personal injury. We know the traffic rules, understand how insurers work, and are committed to obtaining maximum compensation.
In addition, we communicate clearly and guide you personally throughout the entire process.
Want to know whether you are entitled to compensation after a scooter accident? Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation assessment.
