Public electric scooter services would need accident insurance for trips

Covered electric scooter services would carry liability insurance that pays before other insurance. Covered services operate in New York, own, lease, or control more than two electric scooters, and offer them to the public through apps or similar digital systems. Coverage would run from digital access through lawful trips and cover legal liability for injuries, deaths, and property damage. The insurance requirements would start 180 days after the bill becomes law.

Covered electric scooter services would show insurance proof when authorized enforcement officials request it. Owners or riders would show it to people claiming injury or property damage. Owner and rider duties apply only when insurance was required for that use. Failure to show officials proof would suggest missing insurance but would not itself be an offense. Owners or riders could defend a charge by showing proof within 24 hours of receiving notice of the injury, damage, or claim. These proof requirements would start 180 days after the bill becomes law.