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E-bikes have become much more common throughout America since the Covid-19 pandemic. Long-time bicyclists and new riders alike have invested in these vehicles, which combine a potential for exercise, an eco-friendly commuting option, and the convenience of higher speeds.
E-bike riders are responsible for following the rules of the road. Those who are new to these bikes should practice somewhere safe, and wear protective gear. Whether you are an e-bike owner or someone who shares the road with these vehicles, it is important to know how to keep yourself and those around you safe.
E-Bikes May Cause Serious Injuries
There is far less data on e-bike injuries—but an analysis of 17 years’ worth of accident records found e-bike riders were far more likely to be hospitalized after accidents than either powered scooter or traditional bike riders. Reason being that the speed of these vehicles can reach up to 28 mph in comparison to traditional bikes’ maximum speed of 10 mph.
There are three major types of e-bikes:
- Class 1, which provide assistance while you pedal, and can reach 20 mph
- Class 2, which power your ride even when you are not pedaling, and can reach 20 mph
- Class 3, which provide assistance while you are pedaling and can reach 28 mph
With these higher speeds and e-bikes’ faster acceleration, new riders may lose control of their vehicle simply because they do not know what to expect. E-bikes also weigh more because of their motor, which means they have a longer stopping distance. An unprepared biker might hurt themselves and others in an e-bike collision. The best prevention is to make sure you know your e-bike before riding with other cars or people around.
Product Defects Common Among E-Bikes
Defective vehicles cause accidents every year. E-bike riders should be aware of the risks of a defective bike. These malfunctions include battery fires (while riding or charging), front-wheel hub fork failure, bearing lock-ups, throttle stickiness, battery, motor, or controller malfunction, and tire blowouts. The best prevention for defects is to check up on your bike especially if it feels different or unsafe.
Holding an e-bike seller or manufacturer accountable for a faulty bike part first involves finding proof of the defect. Our lawyers have the resources to launch an investigation of your vehicle.
What Should I Do After an E-Bike Accident?
If you’re hit by someone on an e-bike, you should do the same things you would after any accident: Make sure you’re in a safe place, call 911, and make sure you get the other party’s name, contact, and insurance information. You should also seek medical care even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt.
If someone else caused your injuries, we want to help you secure compensation and to learn about your legal rights. Our bicycle accident attorneys can help with an e-bike or traditional bike collisions.
E-bike use is on the rise, and we don’t expect to see a decrease any time in the near future. If you have questions about a legal matter involving an e-bike accident, our lawyers are here to help.
Call Kershaw Talley Barlow at (916) 520-6639 for a free consultation with one of our bike accident attorneys. We can provide the answers you need.