Ride at your own risk: Recall issued for Lime scooters that can break apart
A recall involving the popular Lime e-scooters has caused the company to pull some off the roads after people reported the scooters broke apart while in use.
Posted — UpdatedIt is unclear if any of the 250 Lime scooters around Raleigh were part of the recall, but legal experts say that is one reason to think twice before taking a ride.
"It is completely riding at your own risk. If you get hurt, you are going to pay for your injury no matter how you get hurt," said Hoyt Tessener, a personal injury attorney.
Tessner says North Carolina has a unique liability law that riders should be aware of called contributory negligence.
"What that means is that if you in any way contribute to getting hurt, you get no recovery," he said.
Tessner says North Carolina is one of only four states that has contributory negligence.
Insurance broker Mike Sollie says home and auto insurance don’t typically cover scooters.
"You never know if it's going to happen, but if it does happen, just understand that if someone wanted to come after you, chances are you are going to be on your own," Sollie said.
Sollie says it’s always best to call your insurance company to check your coverage before a joy ride could end up costing you.
"When you hit that vehicle, you are going to pay out of your own pocket. You are going to have to pay for it," he said.
According to Tessner, you don't have to actually cause the accident to be considered a contributor.
By simply accepting the rental agreement and stepping on the scooter, you are essentially liable to any damage you cause to yourself or someone else.
Related Topics
• Credits
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
