Rentable scooters from Lime, Bird, and other companies are everywhere in California. They’re quick, cheap, and convenient, until an accident happens. Suddenly, riders and pedestrians alike are asking: Who pays when someone gets hurt?

At Swanson Law Group, we’ve seen firsthand how confusing California’s insurance rules are when scooters are involved. Insurance companies often deny or delay claims, leaving injured people without clear answers. Our trial lawyers have helped clients across California navigate these complex areas, secure necessary medical treatment, and obtain real compensation after scooter crashes.

How California Classifies Scooters

California law defines a motorized scooter as a two-wheeled device with a motor, handlebars, and a floorboard for standing. Here’s what you need to know:

• These scooters do not require registration or license plates (California DMV)
• They’re also exempt from mandatory insurance requirements
• That means neither you nor the scooter company may be legally required to carry insurance (California Vehicle Code § 406)

When Other Insurance Might Apply

If a driver hits you on a scooter:

• The driver’s auto insurance usually applies
• However, insurers often fight these claims, saying scooters aren’t “vehicles” under the policy
• We’ve forced carriers to pay policy limits in cases like this by preparing every case as if it’s headed for trial

If you injure someone while riding:

• Some rental companies offer limited liability coverage, but others disclaim it
• When your exposure is on the line, we step in to challenge waivers and protect you from insurer tactics

Covering your own injuries:

• Auto UM/UIM coverage, health insurance, or even special micromobility policies may apply, but expect pushback
• Insurers regularly deny these claims, and that’s where our aggressive approach makes the difference

Why Cases Get Messy, and How We Handle It

Scooter accident claims rarely follow a straightforward path, and insurance carriers often argue that scooters fall outside the scope of auto or homeowners policies. When they try to sidestep responsibility, we counter with expert testimony and legal precedent to hold them accountable.

Rental companies like Lime and Bird contribute to the confusion with user agreements that are packed with waivers and disclaimers. We’ve taken those contracts apart and challenged their validity to prevent riders from being unfairly left on the hook.

Even when limited coverage exists, it’s usually insufficient to cover the full cost of serious injuries. Our team knows how to layer different sources of insurance to make sure clients don’t walk away undercompensated. And because some California cities impose their own insurance rules on scooter operators, we stay on top of local ordinances that can strengthen a claim.

What truly changes the outcome is our readiness to try cases. Swanson Law Group has recovered over $100 million for its injured clients, including multi-million-dollar verdicts. Insurers know we don’t bluff; when we send a demand, they understand trial is on the table. That leverage often means bigger settlements and faster justice.

Scooter Crash Victims Deserve More Than Excuses

California law does not require scooter riders to carry insurance, and coverage gaps are common. That means the fight for compensation often comes down to how well your lawyer understands both insurance law and micromobility cases.

Swanson Law Group knows how to hold insurers accountable when they try to dodge responsibility. We’ve built a reputation as the people’s law firm by stopping insurer harassment and ensuring that accident victims receive hope, health, and compensation.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a Lime, Bird, or private scooter crash, don’t wait. Call us 24/7 at (888) 214-0261 for a complimentary consultation, or complete our online form. You pay nothing unless we win.