Electric bikes and e-scooters have become increasingly common across Calgary and throughout Alberta. Shared scooter and e-bike programs have changed how many people commute, travel downtown, and get around the city. But as their popularity grows, so do serious accidents and injuries.
If you were injured in an e-bike or e-scooter accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Depending on the circumstances, responsibility for the accident may involve:
- A negligent driver
- An e-scooter or e-bike rider
- A rental scooter company
- A municipality
- A defective scooter or battery
- Unsafe road or pathway conditions
At Litco Law, our Calgary e-bike and e-scooter accident lawyers help injured Albertans understand their rights and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Whether you were:
- Hit by an e-scooter
- Injured while riding an e-bike
- Struck by a vehicle while riding
- Hurt because of a defective scooter
- Injured as a pedestrian
…we’re here to help.
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Get answers to the following topics and questions:
- Quick Answer: Can You Make an E-Bike or E-Scooter Injury Claim in Alberta?
- Why Calgary Clients Choose Litco Law
- Why E-Bike and E-Scooter Claims Can Be More Complicated
- Common Causes of E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents
- Common E-Bike and E-Scooter Injuries
- What To Do After an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident
- Who Is Liable After an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident in Calgary?
- E-Bike and E-Scooter Rules in Calgary and Alberta
- What Compensation Can Be Available After an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident?
- How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim in Alberta?
- Frequently Asked Questions About E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents
- Our Calgary E-Bike Accident Legal Team Can Help You Today
Quick Answer: Can You Make an E-Bike or E-Scooter Injury Claim in Alberta?
Yes. If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to make a personal injury claim in Alberta. Because these claims can involve multiple parties and evolving laws, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer as early as possible.
Why Calgary Clients Choose Litco Law
For over 50 years, Litco Law has provided award-winning legal advocacy and compassionate support to injured Albertans. Our family-owned law firm is proud to help those who are going through some of the most challenging times in their lives, making the legal process easier, clearer, and more efficient. Here’s why clients continue to trust Litco Law for legal help:
Our Team-Based Approach
When you work with us, you don’t just get a lawyer. You get your own personal legal team that will be with you throughout the course of your claim. We call this team a “pod.” It includes a lawyer, a case manager, a client care specialist, and a legal assistant who will be by your side every step of the way.
Transparent Pricing With No Hidden Fees
We never bill by the hour, and you won’t pay us anything while your claim progresses. Our fee is a percentage of the compensation we recover for you, and you’ll know that percentage before you ever hire us. You can start with a free consultation to get answers to your legal questions and guidance on how to move forward.
Clear and Consistent Communication
As our client, you will receive regular updates on your claim every 30 days or less, and a 24-hour response time for messages and questions. We explain everything in plain language, making sure you understand your options and feel empowered throughout the process.
What Our Calgary Clients Are Saying
With over 1000 five-star Google reviews across the province, we are humbled and honoured to know that we have made a difference in people’s lives. Here’s what some of our clients have shared about working with us:
- “We had nothing but the best experience with Litco Law! Completely professional, kind and very caring. Everyone we had a pleasure talking with made us feel very safe and well cared for!” – Zahara C.
- “Had a lovely experience with Litco Law. The team followed up on a regular basis to check in and the whole process went very smoothly. I would 100% recommend!” – Aneta H.
- “The team at Litco Law Britannia Crossing in Calgary was absolutely amazing. I was involved on an unfortunate situation a few years ago, and this team took great care of me from start to finish. Outstanding job and they really care to make you feel comfortable! Thank you!” – Ingo
Why E-Bike and E-Scooter Claims Can Be More Complicated
Unlike traditional motor vehicle accidents, e-bike and e-scooter injury claims often involve unique legal and insurance issues, such as:
- Rental agreements and app waivers
- Multiple potentially liable parties
- Unclear insurance coverage
- Municipal bylaws
- Shared scooter company policies
- Product defects or battery malfunctions
- Questions around rider impairment or unsafe operation
Additionally, a recent court decision found that private e-scooters qualify as “automobiles” under the Alberta Insurance Act. This decision means that private e-scooter riders are not considered pedestrians or bicyclists and cannot access the other driver’s Section B benefits, which are accident benefits that provide some medical and financial support, regardless of fault.
Because private e-scooters cannot be registered as motor vehicles, injured riders of private e-scooters may be left without Section B coverage due to the possible classification as “occupants of an uninsured automobile.”
We know this can all feel overwhelming, but our Calgary injury lawyers will explore all possible sources of compensation and work to determine who may be legally responsible (liable) for your injuries.
Common Causes of E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents
E-bike and e-scooter accidents can happen in many different ways. Some involve motor vehicles, while others result from dangerous riding behaviour, defective equipment, or unsafe conditions.
Common causes include:
Driver Negligence
Drivers may fail to see e-bike or e-scooter riders when turning, changing lanes, or exiting parking lots.
Distracted or Unsafe Riding
Riders using phones, carrying passengers, riding impaired, or travelling too fast can create dangerous situations.
Improperly Parked Scooters
Poorly parked scooters left on sidewalks, pathways, or roads can create tripping hazards and collisions.
Defective Scooters or Equipment Failure
Brake failure, battery malfunctions, wheel lockups, or defective components can lead to serious crashes.
Poor Road or Pathway Conditions
Potholes, debris, gravel, ice, poor lighting, or uneven pavement can contribute to serious accidents.
Nighttime Visibility Issues
Many accidents occur because riders are difficult to see at night or during poor weather conditions.
Common E-Bike and E-Scooter Injuries
Because riders have very little physical protection, injuries can be severe even in lower-speed collisions.
Common injuries can include:
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Facial injuries
- Dental injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Wrist and shoulder injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Fatal injuries
Head injuries are among the most common e-scooter injuries. The Calgary Police Service strongly recommends helmets to help reduce brain and skull injuries.
What To Do After an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident
If you’ve been injured, the steps you take after the accident can significantly impact your health and your legal claim.
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even injuries that seem minor can become more serious over time.
- Report the Accident
Call police if a vehicle was involved or if there are serious injuries.
- Take Photos and Video
If you are able and it is safe to do so, it can be helpful to take pictures or video of:
- The scene
- Injuries
- Road conditions
- Damage
- Scooter or bike details
- Gather Witness Information
Witness statements can be extremely important in personal injury claims.
- Preserve Rental App Information
If a shared scooter or e-bike was involved, keep screenshots, ride history, receipts, and communications.
- Avoid Admitting Fault
Liability may not be as straightforward as it initially appears.
- Speak With a Lawyer Before Accepting an Insurance Offer
Some insurance companies may attempt to minimize or deny claims.
Who Is Liable in an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident?
Liability depends on the specific facts of the accident. Potentially responsible parties may include:
Negligent Drivers
If a driver hit an e-bike or e-scooter rider, the driver’s auto insurance may be responsible for compensation.
E-Bike or E-Scooter Riders
Riders who operate negligently or unsafely may be legally responsible for injuries they cause.
Rental Scooter Companies
Companies may potentially be liable if:
- Equipment was defective
- Maintenance was inadequate
- Safety issues were ignored
Municipalities
In some cases, unsafe road or pathway conditions may contribute to an accident.
Manufacturers
Defective brakes, batteries, tires, or design flaws can potentially lead to product liability claims.
E-Bike and E-Scooter Rules in Calgary and Alberta
The rules surrounding e-bikes and e-scooters in Alberta continue to evolve. The City of Calgary Shared Micromobility Program states that shared e-scooters can operate on bike lanes, pathways, low-speed roads, and some sidewalks, but they are prohibited on busier roadways like Macleod Trail. Shared e-bikes generally follow the same rules as bicycles.
Current regulations and legal issues may involve:
- Age restrictions
- Helmet recommendations or requirements
- Speed limits
- Impaired riding
- Sidewalk restrictions
- Shared scooter pilot programs
- Insurance obligations
- Parking regulations
There are also ongoing legal and regulatory discussions around privately owned e-scooters in Alberta.
What Compensation Can Be Available After an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident?
Depending on your injuries and circumstances, compensation may include coverage for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Future loss of earning capacity
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Pain and suffering damages
- Housekeeping and care costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Future treatment costs
- Fatal accident claims
If a motor vehicle was involved, you may also qualify for Section B accident benefits regardless of fault.
How Long Do You Have to Make a Claim in Alberta?
In Alberta, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to start a personal injury claim. It’s important to speak with a lawyer as early as possible to protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About E-Bike and E-Scooter Accidents
Can pedestrians make claims after being hit by an e-scooter?
Yes. If a negligent rider causes injuries to a pedestrian, the injured person may be able to pursue compensation.
What if an e-scooter malfunctioned?
You may potentially have a claim against the rental company, manufacturer, maintenance provider, or another responsible party.
Are helmets legally required in Alberta?
Helmet requirements can vary depending on the type of device and rider age. Regardless of legal requirements, helmets are strongly recommended for safety.
What if I was partly at fault?
You may still be able to recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident.
Can children make claims after an e-scooter accident?
Potentially, yes. Claims involving minors can involve additional legal considerations and limitation periods.
Our Calgary E-Bike Accident Legal Team Can Help You Today
An e-bike or e-scooter accident can have serious consequences that may be difficult to handle on your own. We’re Lawyers You’ll Love because we understand the struggles you may be facing and are here to help in any way we can. We offer caring support, strong legal advocacy, and decades of experience to help you get you through this.
Call (587) 602-0514 or contact us online for a free consultation over the phone, via virtual meeting, or at one of our Calgary offices. Our team will listen to your story, explain your rights, and walk you through your legal options. We’ll help you find the solution, even if we’re not it.
