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In California, e-scooters fall under the classification of motor vehicles, regardless of their motor size or top speed, making them subject to the same traffic laws as cars.

This distinguishes them from e-bikes, which are categorized as bicycles and must adhere to bicycle traffic laws.

Recently injured in an e-scooter accident? As a legal attorney well-versed in Los Angeles regulations, I will provide you with comprehensive insights regarding the current regulations in Los Angeles for E-Scooters.

Quick Summary

E-scooter regulations in Los Angeles include helmet requirements, a minimum age of 16, designated parking, a ban on sidewalks, and a no-riding-under-the-influence policy requiring a valid license to ride.
E-scooters are allowed on roadways, bike lanes, and bicycle paths but not on sidewalks, with a preference for Class II bike lanes, subject to exceptions.
California state laws set helmet requirements, a 15 mph speed limit, and driver's license or permit rules, and advise on liability and insurance considerations for e-scooter riders.

What Are the Current Regulations in Los Angeles for E-scooters?

E-scooters offer a convenient way to travel around Los Angeles, but strict regulations are in place to ensure rider and pedestrian safety.

Understanding these rules is essential not only to avoid fines but also to protect yourself in case of an accident.

In Los Angeles, riders must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license or instruction permit to legally operate an e-scooter.

Minors under 18 are required by law to wear a helmet, while adult riders are strongly encouraged to do so for their safety.

Additionally, e-scooters cannot be ridden on sidewalks, as this poses a risk to pedestrians. Instead, riders must use designated bike lanes or roads where permitted.

Scooter parking is another critical aspect of regulation. Improperly parked scooters can obstruct sidewalks and create hazards, so they must be left in designated parking areas, such as bike racks.

Double riding is prohibited, meaning only one person can ride per scooter at a time. E-scooter use is also restricted to specific hours, from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, to enhance safety during nighttime hours [1].

To further prevent accidents, riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly illegal and carries serious consequences similar to DUI penalties for motor vehicles.

Riders must also adhere to speed limits established by the city to reduce the likelihood of collisions.

Key Regulations at a Glance

Minimum age: 16 years old
License requirement: Valid driver’s license or instruction permit
Helmet requirement: Mandatory for riders under 18
Sidewalk riding: Prohibited
Parking: Must use designated areas
Passenger restrictions: No double riding
Operating hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
DUI laws: Riding under the influence is illegal
Speed limits: Must comply with city regulations

Where Can You Ride an E-Scooter in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles allows e-scooters on roadways, bike lanes, and bicycle paths—but riding on sidewalks is strictly prohibited under CVC 21229 [2].

Preferred Route: Class II bike lanes, which are marked with white lines and bike symbols, are the safest and legal option.
Exceptions: Some areas may have specific restrictions, so always check local signage before riding.

Failing to follow these rules can result in fines and may impact your case if you’re involved in an accident.

Also Read

: Why Are Electric Scooters Dangerous?

E-Scooter Parking Rules: Avoid Fines and Hazards

Parking e-scooters properly is just as important as riding safely. Improperly parked scooters create hazards for pedestrians and can lead to accidents.

You should:

Park only in designated areas like bike racks.
Do not block sidewalks, wheelchair-accessible paths, or building entrances.
Violations can lead to fines and potential liability if someone is injured due to an obstructed path.

Common E-Scooter Injuries and Legal Considerations

E-scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in cities like Los Angeles, but their increasing use has led to a rise in injuries.

Understanding the most common types of injuries and the legal implications can help riders take necessary precautions and know what steps to take if they are involved in an accident.

Types of E-Scooter Injuries

Injury patterns from e-scooter accidents vary depending on speed, road conditions, and whether riders wear protective gear. Below are the most common types of injuries reported in e-scooter accidents:

1. Soft-Tissue Injuries

The most frequently reported injuries involve bruises, sprains, and strains, particularly affecting the knees, wrists, and forehead.
Studies indicate that up to 62.6% of e-scooter accidents result in some form of soft-tissue damage.

2. Fractures

Wrist fractures (distal radius fractures) are among the most common due to falls, while nasal fractures are also frequently reported.
Lower limb fractures, including tibia and fibula breaks, occur when riders collide with obstacles or lose control of their scooters.

3. Head and Facial Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions account for a significant portion of e-scooter-related hospital visits, particularly when riders do not wear helmets.
Facial injuries, such as fractures in the jaw or cheekbones, are also prevalent in high-impact crashes.

4. Severe Trauma and Other Injuries

While less common, multi-system trauma, deep lacerations, and shoulder dislocations have been reported.
Riders involved in high-speed collisions may suffer internal injuries or prolonged recovery times.

E-Scooter Injury Statistics in Los Angeles

E-scooter accidents are a growing public safety concern in California.

The table below illustrates how injuries are distributed across different body regions:

Body Region	Frequency
Head/Face	40.2% - 54%
Upper Extremity	30.2%
Lower Extremity	29.2%
Soft-Tissue	27.7% - 62.6%

While specific statistics for Los Angeles are limited, national and state-wide reports show that head and extremity injuries make up the majority of e-scooter-related ER visits.

This highlights the importance of wearing helmets and following safety regulations to minimize risks. To reduce injuries, California’s e-scooter laws regulate riding locations, parking, and passenger restrictions.

Preventing E-Scooter Injuries and Understanding Legal Rights

To stay safe and avoid legal complications, riders should follow these guidelines:

Use Protective Gear: Helmets and knee pads can significantly reduce injury severity.
Follow Local Laws: Riding responsibly and following traffic laws reduces accident risks.
Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like texting while riding.
Know Your Legal Rights: If involved in an accident, seek legal guidance to understand liability and compensation options.

E-scooter injuries can be serious and financially burdensome. If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident due to another party’s negligence, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

By understanding common injuries, California’s safety regulations, and your legal rights, you can make informed decisions about riding safely and protecting yourself in case of an accident.

How California State Laws Aim to Reduce E-Scooter Injuries

California state laws play a significant role in shaping e-scooter regulations in Los Angeles. These laws cover various aspects, such as helmet requirements, maximum speed limits, and driver's license and permit rules, ensuring that e-scooters are used safely and responsibly across the state [3].

Helmet Requirements

The role of helmets in ensuring the safety of e-scooter riders is of utmost importance. In California, minors under the age of 18 are required to wear a bicycle helmet that fits securely and is properly fastened while riding an e-scooter. While adults are not legally obligated to wear a helmet, it is highly recommended for safety reasons, such as lowering the risk of head injuries.Remember, wearing a helmet not only abides by California electric scooter laws but also helps prevent scooter accidents and keeps everyone safer on the roads.

Maximum Speed and Traffic Rules

E-scooters must adhere to a maximum speed limit of 15 mph in California. This speed limit is in place to ensure the safety of riders, pedestrians, and motorists alike. Going over the speed limit can result in a traffic ticket, so it's essential to keep an eye on your speed while riding an e-scooter.Additionally, e-scooters are subject to many of the same traffic rules as motor vehicles, including obeying traffic signals, following the flow of traffic, and yielding to pedestrians. Compliance with these traffic rules helps prevent scooter accidents and ensures a safe and enjoyable riding experience for everyone.

"Scooters cannot generally be ridden on highways or other roads with speed limits that exceed 25 mph and that lack a bike lane."
- C.R. MCREYNOLDS, Founding Partner at McReynolds | Vardanyan LLP

Driver's License Must Be Valid

To operate an e-scooter in California, riders must possess a valid driver's license or instruction permit. This requirement is in place to ensure that only qualified individuals can ride e-scooters and minimize the risk of accidents caused by inexperienced or unlicensed riders.

Permit Requirements

While e-scooters do not require registration or license plates in California, rental businesses must obtain permits to operate. This requirement ensures that e-scooter rental businesses comply with local regulations and provide a safe and regulated environment for riders and pedestrians alike.

Common E-Scooter Accident Scenarios in Los Angeles

E-scooter accidents can happen in various ways. Below are real-world scenarios illustrating how California e-scooter laws come into play.

What Happens If a Car Hits an E-Scooter Rider?

Scenario: Lisa was riding in a designated bike lane when a distracted driver swerved and struck her. She suffered multiple injuries, including a fractured wrist and a concussion.

Legal Outcome: Lisa’s lawyer proved the driver was at fault due to texting while driving. The at-fault driver’s insurance was required to cover Lisa’s medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, resulting in a $150,000 settlement.

Penalty for Drivers: California Vehicle Code 23123.5 prohibits texting while driving. A first-time offense carries a $162 fine, with higher penalties for repeat violations.

What Happens If an E-Scooter Rider Hits a Pedestrian?

Scenario: John was riding on the sidewalk—which is illegal in California—when he struck a pedestrian, causing the person to fall and break their arm.

Legal Outcome: Because John was violating CVC 21235(g) (which prohibits riding e-scooters on sidewalks), he was found liable for the accident. His insurance did not cover e-scooter liability, so he had to pay $25,000 in damages out of pocket.

Penalty for Riders: Riding an e-scooter on a sidewalk in Los Angeles can result in a $197 fine.

What Happens If You Ride an E-Scooter Without a Helmet?

Scenario: Emma, a 17-year-old, was riding without a helmet when she lost control and crashed, sustaining a serious head injury.

Legal Outcome: California law (CVC 21235(c)) requires riders under 18 to wear helmets. Because Emma was a minor, her parents were responsible for her medical bills, and her personal injury claim was partially reduced because she failed to comply with helmet laws.

Penalty for Riders: Failure to wear a helmet when required can result in a $200 fine.

What Happens If an E-Scooter Rider Runs a Red Light?

Scenario: David rode his scooter through a red light at an intersection and collided with a turning vehicle. He suffered minor injuries, but the accident was his fault.

Legal Outcome: David was cited for failing to obey traffic signals (CVC 21453) and was held liable for damages to the driver’s car. His personal injury claim was denied because he violated traffic laws.

Penalty for Riders: Running a red light on an e-scooter carries a fine of $490.

Why You Need Legal Representation After an E-Scooter Accident

Even when following all the rules, accidents can happen. If you were injured due to a reckless driver, a defective scooter, or a poorly maintained road, you may be entitled to compensation. Legal claims related to e-scooter accidents can be complex.

Liability may fall on:

Scooter rental companies (for mechanical failures or lack of maintenance).
Other drivers (if a car or cyclist caused your accident).
The city (if road hazards contributed to your injury).

If you’ve been injured in an e-scooter accident, do not navigate the legal process alone.

Our experienced legal team can assess your case, gather evidence, and fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Liability and Insurance Considerations

Liability and insurance considerations are vital for e-scooter riders. While insurance is not mandatory for e-scooter riders in California, it is highly recommended for coverage in the event of potential damages and injuries. Accidents involving e-scooters can result in physical injury, property damage, and medical expenses.In the event of an accident involving an e-scooter, various parties may be held liable for damages, including the rider, the e-scooter manufacturer, or other involved motorists. It's essential to be aware of the potential liability risks associated with e-scooter use and consider obtaining insurance coverage to protect yourself in the event of an accident.Related Articles

See all related personal injury lawsuits our lawyers have covered.

FAQs

Are Electric Scooters Legal in Los Angeles?Yes, electric scooters are legal in Los Angeles, but they must adhere to specific regulations outlined by the city.Can You Ride Electric Scooters on the Sidewalk in Los Angeles?No, you cannot ride on the sidewalks in Los Angeles. They should be ridden in designated bike lanes or on the road, following traffic laws.Do You Need a License to Drive a Scooter in Los Angeles?No, you don't need a driver's license to drive a scooter in Los Angeles. However, riders must be at least 16 years old to use e-scooters legally.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today.

If you have experienced an e-scooter accident, promptly reach out to a motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your case and explore potential compensation. An experienced lawyer at Schmidt & Clark, LLP can help you navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding e-scooter accidents, understand your rights, and seek the compensation you deserve.

References:

https://dcba.lacounty.gov/eride-users/
https://casetext.com/statute/california-codes/california-vehicle-code/division-
11-rules-of-the-road/chapter-1-obedience-to-and-effect-of-traffic-laws/article-5-
operation-of-motorized-scooters/section-21229-riding-within-bicycle-lane
https://www.itf-oecd.org/sites/default/files/docs/safe-micromobility_1.pd

California State Laws and Regulations Impacting E-scooters in 2025