Vespas and other small scooters have become an increasingly popular way of traveling around Columbus. With their gas efficiency and substantial mobility, many people have chosen these vehicles as a way to get to work or run errands. Unfortunately, sharing the road with other vehicles while on a scooter comes with significant risks, as riders often suffer the brunt of injuries in a collision. These can require extensive medical attention as well as impact a person’s quality of life and ability to earn a living.
If you were hurt while riding, speak to a Vespa/motor scooter accident lawyer at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy. Our skilled motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help injured individuals to seek out the compensation that they need to set things right. We can take the lead in filing insurance claims and help you bring your case to court to get the restitution you deserve.
Laws for Motorized Scooters in Columbus
Under the law, motorists generally assume a duty whenever they get behind the wheel. Motorists must follow the traffic laws and stay focused on the road to protect other people from unnecessary risk of harm. This duty extends to all other travelers on the road, including motor scooter riders.
Vespas and motorized scooters are road-legal, meaning that riders are protected under the law from reckless drivers. If a driver speeds, fails to yield, or is otherwise negligent in causing a collision, they are liable to provide compensation to any scooter riders injured as a result.
Deadlines for Vespa Accident Claims
Even if it is clear that another driver was responsible for a traffic crash, an injured victim must act quickly to retain their right to pursue compensation. Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10 outlines the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. In short, this law gives people no more than two years from the date of an injury to demand compensation. A skilled local attorney at our firm could help injured Vespa riders to file their claims on time.
Damages in Motor Scooter Collisions
Collisions between motor scooters and other vehicles can result in catastrophic losses. Scooter riders have little protection and may sustain life-altering injuries due to the impact of another vehicle or the ground. Common injuries in these accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Friction burns
- Spinal cord damage
A claim for compensation will work to recover the costs of medical care for these injuries. This can include an ambulance ride, ER care, surgery, and rehabilitation. An experienced attorney at our Columbus office can help demand the payment of past bills as well as estimated future treatment for the motor scooter injuries.
However, physical injuries may not be the only way in which an incident impacts a victim’s life. Many injured scooter riders experience emotional trauma, such as nightmares, flashbacks, or anxiety. Additionally, a collision could leave a person unable to return to work. Our diligent lawyers could help an injured Vespa rider pursue compensation for all losses stemming from an accident, whether physical, emotional, or financial.
Consult a Columbus Attorney on Vespa/Motor Scooter Accidents
Traffic accidents are particularly dangerous for Vespa and motor scooter riders. These vehicles are legal on Columbus streets, but many drivers do not respect the rights of riders or give them proper space on the road. However, if a negligent driver causes injuries to a scooter rider, they may be held liable for all ensuing losses.
If you were injured in this type of crash, seek help from an attorney who handles Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Columbus. The legal team at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy will explain the relevant laws, obtain evidence from the crash, and evaluate how the incident has impacted your life. Reach out to our firm today to get started on the path to recovery.
