For well over 100 years, America’s urban regions have been dominated by infrastructure geared toward cars and trucks, leaving little room for public transportation or greener options. Now, electric bikes, or e-bikes, have grown into an urban phenomenon across the country.
Not only are e-bikes more environmentally friendly, but they are also more accessible for individuals who struggle to use traditional bikes. Unfortunately, e-bikes are not without their dangers and e-bike accidents are on the rise. If you’ve been injured in an e-bike accident in California, BD&J e-bike accident lawyers in California could help you claim compensation.
Connect with BD&J at any time by dialing (855) 906-3699
Key Takeaways
- E-bikes have exploded in popularity for many California riders of different ages
- In comparison to regular bikes, e-bikes have pedal assistance that leads to faster speeds
- E-bike injuries and fatalities have grown substantially in the California in the last few years, with 1,506 collisions recorded in 2024 (UC San Diego)
- California e-bike accident attorneys can work with accident victims to fight for rightful compensation for their injuries and other damages
What Are E-Bikes?
E-bikes are the newest craze in public and personal transportation. These bicycles run on electricity and are often available for borrowing in public or personal purchase, offering those without reliable transportation an easier way to get around.
E-scooters and e-bikes have provided new ways to implement greater public or personal transit options in urban centers without upending the entire city’s existing infrastructure. What sets e-bikes apart is their battery system, which supplies more power to the pedals and allows riders to go further and longer than on traditional bikes.
The 3 Types of E-Bikes
There are 3 classifications of e-bikes:
- Class 1 e-bikes provide pedal assistance through a motor for up to 20 mph.
- Class 2 e-bikes provide pedal assistance or a throttle to propel the bike and reach up to 20 mph.
- Class 3 e-bikes provide only pedal assistance but can get to a speed of 28 mph.
Get the compensation you deserve after an unpredictable injury. BD&J is here to fight beside you, speak with us now by calling (855) 906-3699.
Common Causes of E-Bike Accidents
Both e-bike and e-scooter accidents in California have soared over the past five years, with e-bike injuries in minors nationwide rising by 300% in the last few years.
The most common causes of e-bike accidents in California are:
- Failure of other vehicles to yield or stop
- Riding on incorrect areas, such as a sidewalk
- Failure to remain in bike lanes
- Reckless maneuvers by e-bike riders and drivers alike
- Intoxicated riding
- Road issues, including debris, potholes, and other unfixed flaws
- Faulty e-bike equipment, like a defective battery or throttle
Injuries on e-bikes and e-scooters are also rising, with many riders failing to take precautions like wearing bright clothing or wearing a helmet.
Types of E-Bike Accident Injuries
Emergency rooms have reported a huge increase in e-bike and e-scooter related injuries and deaths in recent years, with a huge jump in serious head-trauma injuries.
In California, many emergency rooms have seen e-bike accident victims suffering from:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Road rash
- Internal bleeding
What is one of the Most Dangerous E-Bike Accident Injuries?
As previously mentioned, traumatic head injuries (including traumatic brain injuries) are some of the most common and life-altering injuries that develop from an e-bike accident. These injuries can be more frequent due to:
- A lack of helmet
- The greater exposure of a rider on an e-bike than other motorists
- High-energy collisions in areas of dense traffic
- Heavier bike weight
- Lack of overall experience and care for younger riders
According to the American College of Surgeons, the lack of a helmet can lead to a predictable result of skull fractures, intercranial hemorrhage, and other neurological disorders. One referenced study showed that in a group of 20 children with e-bike related head trauma, none had worn a helmet (FACS).
Who’s at Fault for an E-Bike Accident?
There can be a few notable parties responsible for an e-bike accident and ensuing damages. These parties may include:
- Another e-bike rider
- A motorcyclist
- The local municipality
- An e-bike manufacturer
- A driver of a car, truck, or other commercial vehicle
Who’s responsible for your accident? Talk to the BD&J team to find out more.
What if I Was Hit by a Minor Riding an E-Bike?
One of the highest populations affected by e-bikes is teenagers and other minors, often due to the accessibility of e-bikes, the appeal of the speed, and to be able to get to and from school and other social events without depending on parents or other adults.
Lack of attention, rider errors, and other acts of recklessness can cause an underage e-bike rider to strike a vulnerable pedestrian, leading to serious consequences. If you’re struck by a minor riding an e-bike, their parent or guardian would be held liable for any ensuing damages.
How Often Do E-Bike Accidents Happen?
Unfortunately, the more casual nature of e-bikes and e-scooters has led to an increase in accidents both in California and across the country, especially among kids and teenagers. Nationwide, the most recent statistics show over 45,000 e-bike related injuries resulting in emergency room visits between 2013 and 2022. In California, e-bike accidents rose by 1,800% in the span of 5 years (FACS).
Orange County is the leading area for e-bike injuries in California, with the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) data from 2019 to 2024 showing teens ages 14 to 16 being the most frequent visitors to their trauma center with 111 e-bike injuries.
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What is the Difference Between an E-Bike and an E-Motorcycle?
E-bikes and e-motorcycles are often grouped together, but there are a few key distinctions between these electric vehicles that can make a difference when it comes to the safety of the other ride and other bystanders.
These differences are:
- Speeds, as an e-bike can only reach up to 28 mph while e-motorcycles can reach anywhere between 30 to 65 mph.
- Pedals, which are necessary for e-bikes but often fake or inoperable.
- Throttles, which are only used on class 2 e-bikes but present on every e-motorcycle.
- Motor power, which is capped at 750 watts for e-bikes but often starts at 1,000 watts and up for e-motorcycles.
- License to operate, which is not required for e-bikes but mandatory for e-motorcycles.
- Ride locations, considering e-bikes are deemed street legal, but most e-motorcycles can’t be ridden on sidewalks.
How To Prepare to Ride an E-Bike
Riding an e-bike safely isn’t impossible, especially when being aware of your surroundings and the limits for your e-bike. Take the following steps to prepare for a ride:
- Make sure the e-bike is ready for you. – Ensure the tire pressure is good, brakes are working, and the bike’s saddle is adjusted to your height.
- Wear a helmet. – Not only is wearing a helmet part of California law, but you’re also protecting one of the most fragile parts of the body.
- Practice on a quiet and empty road. – If this is your first e-bike ride, it could help to make the ride on a quiet or empty road early in the day where there’s less traffic or pedestrians to watch out for.
- Start on a low level of pedal assist. – Starting on a low level of an e-bikes pedal assist can help you get a feel for the bike.
- Talk with an e-bike accident attorney in California if you’re injured by someone else. – If you’re injured by another driver or motorist while on the road, you’re not alone, and the team at BD&J can help you get started on a legal claim.
California Laws on E-Bikes
With the explosive use of e-bikes in the last couple of years, California has implemented laws to protect rides and other pedestrians. These laws include:
Class 3 E-Bike Requirements
Class 3 e-bikes, which are the fastest class of the 3, are only meant to be used by riders 16 and up according to California law. All Class 3 riders must also wear a helmet.
Mandatory Helmet Use
Helmet use is required for all e-bike riders under the age of 18. Class 3 e-bike riders regardless of age must use a helmet.
Road Use
CA Veh Code § 21207.5 prohibits an e-bike from operating on a bicycle path, trail, equestrian trail, or hiking trail, unless the local governing body of that city or jurisdiction establishes an ordinance allowing it.
Labeling of E-Bikes
According to section CA Veh Code § 312.5, manufacturers and distributors of e-bikes must apply a permanent label in a prominent label that lists the classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage of each e-bike.
Laws for e-bikes are meant to further prevent the handling of these specialized vehicles that lead to grave accidents. If you followed the rules for e-bike riding but still suffered an accident, you have the right to pursue compensation through a legal claim.
BD&J California e-bike accident lawyers will work to get you the compensation you deserve, fill out our online form and our team will contact you within minutes.
Why Are E-Bike Modifications So Risky?
Enthusiastic riders and parents of minor riders have been known to modify an e-bike to enhance the speed and ride of these vehicles. Unfortunately, modifying an e-bike is not only dangerous, but is often considered illegal under California law for certain reasons.
E-bike modifications can:
- Push the speed of an e-bike into illegal speed limits established by the state
- Drain the battery of an e-bike quicker, leading to higher risks on the road
- Change the classification of an e-bike to an unregistered motorcycle or moped
While it may seem tempting to push your e-bike to new heights or see what changes you can make for a faster commute, the truth is that these modifications can often heighten accident risks and fall into illegal practices.
How Can an E-Bike Accident Lawyer Help After an Accident?
E-bikes have undeniable benefits for public health and the environment, but safety remains a massive concern, especially when it comes to young and inexperienced riders. With such a huge influx of e-bike accidents, an e-bike accident attorney in California can help victims and their families protect their rights when others act negligently.
Our lawyers can investigate the cause of your e-bike accident, collect evidence for your case, and negotiate directly with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement after your e-bike accident.
How Much Does It Cost to Work with E-Bike Accident Lawyers in California?
At BD&J, we understand that the aftermath of an e-bike accident can be costly. Medical treatments, vehicle repairs, and the inability to work while in recovery can lead to a mountain of debt.
This is why our attorneys work on a strict contingency fee basis and advance all case costs to you while your claim progresses. Attorney fees are recovered from the final compensation amount after a case is settled.
This means less stress for you, and no fees until we win your case*.
Don’t continue to pay for an accident out of your own pocket. Contact BD&J to learn more.
What Do I Need to Prove in My E-Bike Accident Claim?
To move forward successfully with a claim, you must be able to prove:
- Duty of care – This means the other party had a reasonable duty of care toward you and should have taken the right measures to ensure this duty.
- Breach in this duty – This breach could have happened through negligence or recklessness, whether intentional or not. For example, a driver breathes their duty of care to other motorists on the road when they run a red light and put other lives at risk.
- Injuries as a result of the breach – Your injuries and other damages, (like property or loss of income) resulted from this breach and you can show this with specific evidence.
What Evidence Could Help My E-Bike Accident Case?
Necessary evidence to help your claim may include:
- Videos or photos of the accident, including the road and your bike
- The other driver’s information, including driver’s license and vehicle details
- A police report documenting the incident
- Eyewitness testimonies
- Medical documentation of your injuries
- Pay stubs verifying your work position and income
- An employer letter verifying your time away from work due to injuries
Evidence collection can be time-consuming and can be especially difficult if you’re left dealing with significant injuries from an e-bike accident. Fortunately, working with an e-bike accident attorney can help you in obtaining the evidence you need, as well as with specialized attorney resources like accident reconstruction software and expert eyewitness testimony.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover After an E-Bike Accident?
Some of the compensation recovered from an e-bike accident can be used to cover the costs of:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Property repair or replacement
- Loss of income if you’re unable to work due to injuries
- Physical rehabilitation
- Emotional or mental trauma
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages
How Do I Know When a Settlement Offer is Fair?
A fair settlement offer will typically occur after a person has reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), which is when their injury has reached the peak stage of recovery. This stage of an injury is where a lifelong prognosis is made for future care, the ability for a person to be able to work, disability, etc.
MIM is absolutely necessary for a fair settlement offer to be made. From there, an attorney can help calculate the range for a justified settlement offer for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are E-Bikes Considered Vehicles on the Road?
Yes, e-bikes are road vehicles, first and foremost. This makes safety of particular concern in areas where bike lanes are not consistently marked or aren’t designated in the first place. For safety, if a car wouldn’t do it, an e-bike shouldn’t either.
Do You Need a License to Ride an E-Bike?
No, there is currently no legislation demanding riders of e-bikes receive permits or licenses to operate their vehicles.
What Road Laws Do E-Bike Riders Have to Follow?
E-bike riders must still follow the laws of the road that other motorists do, which includes obeying traffic lights and signals, yielding to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks, and the posted speed limits for residential areas, work zones, alleys, and school/playground zones.
Are E-Bikes More Dangerous than Motorcycles?
In terms of the number of injuries incurred from accidents, e-bikes are, in fact, more dangerous than motorcycles. However, the severity of injuries is often greater with motorcycle riders due to the speeds at which they ride.
Do You Have to Wear a Helmet When Riding an E-Bike in California?
Yes! The California Department of Motor Vehicles states that all e-bike operators must wear a helmet when riding.
Can I Still Obtain Compensation if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet During My Accident?
Yes, California is a comparative negligence state which means that riders deemed partially at fault for their e-bike accident and injuries can still recover compensation. The compensation is simply reduced by the percentage of fault the plaintiff is assigned.
What if My Loved One Was Killed While on an E-Bike?
Losing a loved one in an e-bike accident can be absolutely devastating, but eligible family members can file a wrongful death claim in California to recover the financial damages associated with this loss.
And while you cannot place a price on the life of a loved one, this compensation serves to cover funeral expenses, past medical expenses, and also offer financial support on households dependent on the deceased.
How Long Do I Have to Present My E-Bike Injury Claim?
You have 2 years from the date of your e-bike accident to file a claim for compensation.
Don’t wait! BD&J e-bike accident injury lawyers in California are ready to help you present your lawsuit for damages.
What if My Injuries Took Longer to Show Up After an Accident?
If your injuries took a couple of weeks to present symptoms, it’s vital you waste no time calling an e-bike accident attorney. An attorney can make sure to present your claim in a timely manner and help you in the collection of evidence.
How Much is My E-Bike Case Worth?
It’s difficult to assign value to your individual case without speaking to a lawyer first. Some of the factors that an attorney uses to value your case include severity of injuries, necessary medical care, the effect of the accident on your physical and mental wellbeing, and whether the other plaintiff had similar violations on the road.
Are BD&J Attorneys Bilingual?
Absolutely! Our attorneys speak English, Spanish, Russian, French, Farsi, Armenian, Hebrew, and Arabic.
When Can I Schedule My Consultation with a BD&J Attorney?
As soon as you’re ready and able to do so!
Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your call and schedule your free consultation. If you can’t make it to our offices, our attorneys will make it to you!
Work with a California personal injury law firm that cares. BD&J is ready to answer your call 24/7, speak with our team now by calling 855-906-3699
Pursuing Compensation for Injured E-Bike Riders in California
With growing e-bike use and accidents, e-bike safety must be a priority, especially among younger riders. At BD&J, we support the implementation of extended safety measures nationwide for e-bike and e-scooter riders, while also supporting those responsible riders who have been injured by negligent car drivers. We’ve recovered more than $3 billion* in compensation for injured clients and their families, so you can be confident your case is in the right hands.
Our team specializes in assisting those who experienced catastrophic injuries on bikes, motorcycles, and while walking to claim compensation for their extensive injuries and has done so since our establishment in 2007. If you were hurt by a negligent driver while on an e-bike, schedule a free consultation today with our e-bike accident attorneys in California to learn if you’re eligible to bring a case.
