E-Scooter Riders in Connecticut Are Signing Away Their Right to Sue

E-scooters have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation in cities across Connecticut, including New Haven, Hartford, and Stamford. However, many riders may not realize that by renting an e-scooter, they could be giving up their right to sue the company in the event of an injury.

The Hidden Legal Pitfall in E-Scooter Rental Agreements

An investigation revealed that major e-scooter companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin include arbitration clauses in their rental agreements. These clauses prevent injured riders from filing lawsuits or joining class-action cases against the company—even if the injury was caused by a defective scooter or company negligence.

For instance, Bird’s rental agreement is a 48-page document filled with dense legal terms. Buried on page 30, the agreement states that riders waive their right to sue by accepting the terms. Since most users don’t read these lengthy agreements before riding, they unknowingly sign away their legal rights with the tap of a button.

The Legal Hurdles for Injured Riders in Connecticut

If a Connecticut rider is injured on an e-scooter, their options for legal action become severely limited due to arbitration clauses. These agreements:

• Favor the e-scooter companies, giving them the upper hand in arbitration hearings.
• Require out-of-state hearings, as some companies force Connecticut residents to travel to California for arbitration.
• Eliminate the right to appeal, meaning once the arbitrator makes a decision, it cannot be challenged—even if it is unfair.

While Spin allows arbitration hearings to be held within Connecticut, the process still heavily benefits the company over the rider.

Is It Possible to Opt-Out?

Some e-scooter companies allow riders to opt out of arbitration, but the process is intentionally difficult. Riders must:

1. Submit a written opt-out request within 30 days of their first ride.
2. Mail or email the request to the company, following their specific instructions.

Unfortunately, most riders never realize this option exists because companies bury it deep within the rental agreement. By the time a rider is injured and needs legal recourse, it is often too late to opt out.

E-Scooter Risks and Safety Concerns in Connecticut

E-scooters may be a convenient way to get around, but they also come with serious safety risks. In Connecticut, cities like New Haven and Hartford have seen an increase in e-scooter accidents due to:

• Collisions with motor vehicles, especially when drivers fail to notice scooter riders.
• Defective brakes and mechanical failures, which can cause sudden crashes.
• Poorly maintained roads, including potholes and uneven pavement, making e-scooters difficult to control.

Why Arbitration Agreements Hurt Riders

Arbitration clauses strip away the rights of injured riders and protect e-scooter companies from lawsuits. Instead of allowing cases to be fairly heard in court, arbitration:

• Limits transparency, keeping settlements confidential and preventing public accountability.
• Restricts compensation, often resulting in lower payouts than what a rider could receive in court.
• Prevents full investigations, as arbitration favors companies and discourages independent legal scrutiny.

By forcing riders into arbitration, e-scooter companies avoid accountability for defective products, poor maintenance, and unsafe riding conditions.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured on an E-Scooter in Connecticut

If you or a loved one has suffered an e-scooter injury, take the following steps:

1. Seek medical attention immediately – Your health and safety come first. Document all injuries and treatments.
2. Preserve evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, the scooter, and any visible injuries.
3. Gather witness statements – If anyone saw the accident, get their contact information.
4. Check your rental agreement – Determine if you’re bound by an arbitration clause.
5. Consult a personal injury attorney – An experienced lawyer can help you understand your options.

How Bert McDowell Injury Law Can Help

At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we believe that injured riders deserve justice—not a one-sided arbitration process that protects corporations. Our legal team will:

• Determine if arbitration applies to your case and explore ways to challenge it.
• Hold negligent parties accountable, whether it’s an e-scooter company, a reckless driver, or another entity.
• Fight for maximum compensation, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Call for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured on an e-scooter in Connecticut, don’t let an arbitration clause prevent you from seeking justice. Call Bert McDowell Injury Law at 475-281-3866 for a free case evaluation. We’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.