Lime bikes and electric scooters have become so commonplace that it will come as no surprise that bike accidents are on the rise. Whether you’re a rider, pedestrian, cyclist, or driver, it’s important to know what steps to take if you’re injured due to a Lime bike.
My cousin texted me the other day to say a fast-and-furious Lime bike rider had smashed into her brand new car. She had no idea what to do and hadn’t taken any details of the bike or driver. Doh. I had a similar situation where a friend, a lawyer no less, was run over by a Lime bike and similarly was so “thrown” (pun intended) by the situation that she failed to take any of the usual details that are drilled into us when faced with a normal car v car or car v pedestrian accident. I thought I would write this so I can forward it onto friends and family easily, for next time, and anyone else who finds it useful.
1. Your health comes first
A no brainer but before you can think about taking anyone’s name or number, make sure you are okay. Some injuries like concussions or internal damage may not show symptoms right away so if something doesn’t feel right don’t hesitate to go to A&E, call 111 or visit an urgent care centre. If your symptoms don’t seem so severe but you still need to be seen you may want to book an appointment to see your GP.
2. Take some details
Once you’ve done that body check, gather as much evidence as possible:
- Each Lime bike has a serial number or QR code which you can take a photo of. Sometimes the QR code will be scratched off so you may need to locate the sticker with the serial number on.
- If you were hit by a Lime rider take their name, number and email address. Ideally they will show you a photo of their ID which you can photograph.
- If there were witnesses, collect their names and contact information.
- Note the location, time and any environmental factors (e.g., poor road conditions, signage, lighting). Lime will want to know the exact location of the accident including the street address or google maps link / coordinates although the latter isn’t a requirement.
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, the Lime bike, and any property damage.
3. Consider reporting the incident to the Police
In the UK, it’s important to report road related injuries to the police, especially if:
- Someone is seriously injured.
- A third party (such as a rider or vehicle driver) caused the injury and left the scene.
- There’s potential for a criminal or civil claim.
Call 101 to make a non-emergency report. Request a reference number for your records. If the accident is very serious, you or someone else may need to call 999.
4. Preserve details of the Lime bike or scooter
If you were the one riding the Lime bike you may want to:
- Take a photo of the bike QR code or the serial number.
- Take screenshots of the Lime app showing the bike or ride in question.
- A brief video of any apparent faults, malfunctions, or damage.
Lime may recall the vehicle quickly so gathering evidence at the time is key.
5. Report the incident to Lime
- Lime has a customer service platform where you can report incidents. Use the Lime app or their website to file a report.
- Include as much detail as possible and attach relevant documentation.
- Keep a record of all correspondence with Lime.
Lime may request additional information and could potentially offer compensation or refer you to their insurance provider.
If you are not the Lime bike rider, you can report an accident through this link.
6. Speak to a Personal Injury solicitor
If your injury is serious or was caused by another person’s negligence (including a faulty Lime vehicle), consult a solicitor who specialises in personal injury or road traffic accidents:
- In the UK, most personal injury solicitors operate on a “no win, no fee” basis.
- A solicitor can help assess who is legally responsible. This could be Lime, another rider, or even the local council (e.g., if poor road maintenance played a role in the accident).
- They can also handle communications with Lime or insurers and help you seek compensation for pain and suffering, loss of earnings, property damage, care and assistance and so on.
You have three years from the date of an accident to bring a claim in the UK, provided you are an adult or three years from your 18th birthday if you are a minor so there is no rush to find a solicitor. However, sometimes there can be CCTV which needs to be preserved quickly otherwise will be overwritten or lost which a solicitor could assist you with.
7. Understand insurance and liability
Insurance coverage in the UK differs slightly from other countries:
- Lime provides limited third-party liability cover in the UK for e-bike and e-scooter users. This may apply if you are injured due to a Lime rider’s negligence. This can depend on whether the rider was following the company’s terms of use, e.g. adhering to the age limit, sober riding etc.
- Faulty vehicle: If the accident was caused by a malfunction, Lime could be liable under UK consumer protection or product liability laws.
A solicitor can help you determine the best route for making a claim, if there is a claim to be made.
Accidents involving Lime bikes and scooters are still relatively new legal territory in the UK, but that doesn’t mean you’re without options. Prompt action including seeking medical help, collecting evidence and consulting a solicitor can significantly improve your chances of recovering compensation and holding the responsible party accountable.
For my cousin, hopefully there is no next time…
Find out more about our Personal Injury services here.