Electric bikes (e-bikes) can be a fun way to commute, run errands, or go visit friends. But they may not be the safest form of transportation. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, injuries stemming from the use of e-bikes, electric scooters, and hoverboards led to almost 200,000 emergency room visits from 2017 to 2020. In addition, studies have shown that those injured in e-bike accidents are more likely to suffer internal injuries compared to those injured using other motorized devices. With those statistics in mind, it’s no wonder that individuals are concerned about e-bike safety.
Types of E-bike Injuries
Injuries from e-bikes come in a variety of forms: collisions with cars, collisions with pedestrians or other cyclists, accidents from riding at an excessive speed, and (rarely) lithium battery fires. All of these can cause serious injury to riders, including:
- Broken bones, fractures, or dislocations from falling off an e-bike or being thrown from an e-bike.
- Head, neck, or face injuries including abrasions and lacerations and potentially, concussions.
- Spinal cord injuries, most caused from collisions involving vehicles; or
- Internal bleeding or punctured lung.
The most common injuries sustained from e-bike accidents are orthopedic in nature, commonly occurring to the lower body (generally broken leg bones) and frequently involving hospital stays and lengthy recovery times. This is largely because e-bikes operate at a higher speed than regular bikes, making them fun but also potentially dangerous.
E-bike Safety Tips
Many may think e-bikes have the same safety tips as regular bicycles, but it’s important to remember that these machines can reach speeds up to 27 mph, which means injuries can be extremely severe. With that in mind, it’s even more important to make sure you operate your e-bike safely. The following safety tips will help you stay safe on your e-bike:
- Always wear a helmet. (Preferably one with advanced safety features to better protect you in the event of a collision)
- Use lights and warning devices such as a bell or horn and wear bright colors to make sure others can see and hear you coming.
- Obey all traffic rules and always ride with traffic.
- Be a defensive driver.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for reckless motorists and pedestrians.
- Never operate your e-bike under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
E-bike Liability
If you or a loved one has been injured in an e-bike accident, who can be held liable? The general rule of thumb is that the at-fault party, be it a vehicle driver, another cyclist, pedestrian, etc., can be held responsible for your injuries. As an injured e-bike rider, you may be able to recover hospital/ medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in an e-bike accident, an experienced OC ebike accident attorney can help. They can handle the legal issues so you can avoid unnecessary stress while still getting the compensation that you deserve.
