Houston Moped & Scooter Accident Lawyer

Side-by-side image showing a moped and a scooter parked outdoors in daylight, highlighting visual differences for a comparison of vehicle types.

Moped vs. Scooter: What the Law Says in Texas

Understanding your rights after an accident starts with knowing how the law classifies your vehicle. In Texas, mopeds are motor-driven cycles with engine capacities under 50cc and top speeds of 30 mph or less. Riders must be licensed and adhere to standard traffic laws.

Scooters, particularly electric rental scooters, fall into a separate category. These are typically governed under bicycle laws—but cities like Houston may add their own restrictions. For example, riders are not allowed on sidewalks, must use bike lanes when available, and cannot exceed certain speeds.

These distinctions matter: they can influence who is at fault, whether helmet laws apply, and how your claim is handled by insurers.

What Causes Moped and Scooter Accidents in Houston?

Despite public perception, most moped and scooter riders are cautious and law-abiding. Still, accidents happen, often due to others’ negligence.

In Houston, common causes include:

  • Drivers failing to yield or notice riders at intersections
  • Distracted driving, especially in high-traffic zones like Midtown or Montrose
  • Car doors opening into scooter lanes (“dooring”)
  • Potholes or poorly maintained roads
  • Defective scooter brakes or battery malfunctions
  • Ride-share scooter negligence—poor maintenance by companies like Lime or Bird

These incidents frequently occur downtown, near university areas, and along high-traffic corridors like Westheimer Road or Washington Avenue.

Two people pointing at a damaged car and a fallen yellow scooter after a collision on a city street
Damaged white scooter lying on the road after a collision with a beige car, showing visible impact on both vehicles.

Injuries Often Suffered in Moped & Scooter Accidents

Unlike car occupants, moped and scooter riders lack protection. Even low-speed collisions can cause catastrophic injuries. At our firm, we’ve seen:

  • Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
  • Facial fractures and dental trauma
  • Broken arms, wrists, and collarbones
  • Spinal injuries, including herniated discs and nerve damage
  • Road rash and deep lacerations

These injuries not only require immediate medical care but also often long-term treatment, therapy, or surgery. Injured riders need to understand their options and pursue compensation that reflects the true impact of their injuries, not just the hospital bills.

Who Is Liable for a Scooter or Moped Crash?

Determining fault in these cases isn’t always straightforward. Potentially liable parties include:

  • Drivers who cause collisions due to inattention or traffic violations
  • Rental companies for failing to maintain their scooters
  • Scooter manufacturers, if a product defect played a role
  • Government entities responsible for road maintenance

A thorough investigation may include reviewing video surveillance, collecting witness statements, and analyzing scooter data logs if available.

Scooter lying on its side in the street after an accident, with visible debris and spilled groceries near a white
Texas law book with gavel, eyeglasses, and pens on a wooden desk.

Your Rights Under Texas Law

Texas operates under modified comparative fault, which means you can recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Even if you weren’t wearing a helmet, that doesn’t bar your claim, though it may affect compensation if head injuries are involved.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss that deadline, you may lose your right to file a lawsuit entirely.

Insurance companies are quick to minimize these claims, often blaming riders or downplaying injuries. That’s why early legal representation is critical.

Why You Need a Houston Scooter Accident Attorney

Unlike car crashes, scooter and moped accidents often involve more complex legal questions: Was the vehicle properly maintained? Were local ordinances followed? Could a city agency or rental company share responsibility? These cases demand a detailed understanding of traffic law, liability, and insurance coverage.

That’s why working with an experienced moped & scooter accident lawyer in Houston, TX can make all the difference. Legal counsel can:

  • Handle communication with insurance companies and scooter vendors
  • Document medical treatment and long-term care needs
  • Gather evidence to establish fault and liability
  • Pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more

Some personal injury lawyers take these cases on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront costs, and legal fees are only paid if compensation is successfully recovered.

Close-up of a handshake in a legal office during a moped or scooter accident settlement meeting, symbolizing successful legal resolution.

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