Miami City Commission Votes to End, Then Reinstate Motorized Scooter Program
In November 2021, the Miami City Commission voted to end a multi-year program that allowed motorized scooters to be placed throughout the city. The program, which had been in place for several years, came to an abrupt end with vendors being told they had a week to pick up their inventory. Electric scooter opponents have long been concerned about the dangers they present to traffic and pedestrians.
At Mase Mebane Seitz, we represent individuals who have been hurt or killed as a result of another person’s negligence. Dockless, motorized scooters can cause serious harm to an unsuspecting person. If you have been injured in a motorized scooter accident, contact our office at (844) 627-3529 for a free consultation.
The Motorized Scooter Debate
Since at least 2018, Miami has approved the use of motorized scooter rentals in the city. The pilot program originally authorized nine private operators to rent nearly 4,000 dockless electric scooters in an effort to improve micro-mobility throughout Miami.
The program has been met with controversy since the beginning. Last year, the Miami City Commission voted to suspend the program until new regulations could be passed. Despite new safety efforts, the commission again voted to end the program in November.
Critics have noted that the scooters are often left haphazardly on the sidewalks, creating a prime opportunity for injury. They also pose a risk to vehicular traffic and to passengers who are not familiar with the machine.
Reinstated with New Regulations
As noted by NBC 6 South Florida, a week after the commission decided to end the program, they notified the public that they would hold a special meeting to address the issue. At the meeting, commissioners voted 3 to 1 to rescind the ban on the scooters. However, they imposed new regulations in an attempt to make the devices safer.
New motorized scooter regulations could include:
- The mandatory use of helmets;
- Limiting the number of scooters permitted for use at one time;
- A new speed limit; and
- Prohibition of side-by-side riding.
The new rules were recently released, and bans have already been issued. According to NBC, five of the seven scooter companies in Miami are now banned for their failure to adhere to the new rules. Helbiz and Spin are now the only permitted options.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Scooter Accident
Whether you are injured while riding on a motorized scooter or injured as a result of one, you might be entitled to compensation. It is essential that you act quickly as you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim based on personal injury.
It is in your best interest to contact an attorney immediately after the accident to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation available in your case. Motorized scooters can be a hazard for riders, pedestrians, bicyclists, and others; companies must be held accountable for any resulting injuries.
Injured in a Motorized Scooter Accident? Contact Our Office!
Were you or a loved one injured in a motorized scooter accident in Miami? Contact our office at (844) 627-3529 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced trial lawyers will help determine if you have a right to compensation against a negligent company or individual.