E-Bikes and E-Scooter Accidents in California
With the growing popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters, there is also a sharp rise in accidents involving these new modes of transportation. Generally, e-bike and e-scooter accidents cause more severe injuries than manual bicycle and scooter accidents. While there are numerous benefits to riding e-bikes and e-scooters it is worth understanding the dangers, implementing safety measures when riding, and knowing what to do if you are involved in an e-bike or e-scooter accident. If you or a loved one have been involved in an e-bike or e-scooter accident, contact an e-bike accident lawyer in California today to file a claim.
Limited Regulations Exist for E-bikes and E-scooters in California
California roadways can be dangerous for any mode of transportation, especially in large cities like Los Angeles. With the introduction of new micromobility vehicles like e-bikes and e-scooters comes a variety of conditions that put users at risk. E-bikes and e-scooters are so new that regulations are not yet in place to help drivers know what to do when e-bikes are present. In addition, E-bikes are regarded similarly to bicycles, and thus are not limited by license, insurance, and license plate restrictions. This creates e-bike riders that may not be as familiar with the rules of the road. Experienced e-bike accident lawyers in California, like the attorneys at BD&J, are knowledgeable about current regulations and can help to fight for a fair settlement.
Causes of E-bike Accidents
E-bikes reach higher speeds without much protection. Class I and II e-bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph, and class III e-bikes can go up to 28 mph. Standard pedal bikes typically reach a maximum speed of 10 mph. This increase in speed is a likely cause for the drastic increase in accidents and severity of injuries associated with e-bike accidents.
In addition to higher speeds, e-bikes and e-scooters also have less protection between themselves and the world around them. This leads to more severe injuries. E-bike accident injuries can include internal injuries, concussions, broken bones, shoulder and knee tears, neck and back injuries, and even fatalities. Due to the potential severity of injuries in an e-bike accident many have contacted e-bike accident lawyers in California to file claims and get compensation for injuries and damages.
FAQs
How Common Are E-Bike Accidents?
The Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) showed that from 2018–2023 e-bike incidents increased more than 18x over 5 years. The number of accidents went from 184 in 2018 to 3,429 in 2023, significantly surpassing the rate of bicycle accidents.
Is It Illegal to Ride an E-Bike Without a Helmet in California?
California e-bike regulations only require riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet when riding their e-bike. However, it is recommended that all riders wear a helmet when operating an e-bike or e-scooter to minimize the risk of traumatic brain injury during an accident.
What Is the New E-bike Law in California?
The new e-bike law in California for 2025 involves changes to class I and III e-bikes that limit throttle use at top speeds. The law limits motor power to 750 watts on all e-bikes and means class I and III e-bikes will not have a throttle other than for walking speeds of 3.7 mph. No additional pedal or acceleration support will be available above the maximum speeds of those classes of e-bikes.
Can I Ride My E-bike on The Sidewalk in California?
In California, e-bikes can be ridden on sidewalks but must obey traffic rules and yield to pedestrians. E-bike accidents were 3x more likely to involve collisions with pedestrians compared with pedal bikes and e-scooters. E-bikes should use caution when riding on sidewalks and remember that pedestrians have the right-of-way.
What is the Most Common Injury in E-Scooter Accidents?
The most common type of injury caused by an e-scooter accident includes injuries to the head as well as upper extremities. The rate of head injuries is likely associated with the fact that helmets are only required for e-scooter riders under 18 years of age.
How to Find a Skilled E-bike Accident Lawyer in California
If you or a loved one are involved in an e-bike accident, contact our team of skilled e-bike accident lawyers to see if you are eligible for compensation. Follow these steps to contact a California personal injury lawyer with BD&J.
- Collect documentation. Keeping photos of your injuries, property damage, medical bills, and witness statements to present to your e-bike accident lawyer at BD&J will help to expedite your claim.
- Contact our e-bike accident team. Complete this form to receive a call from one of our team members regarding your potential case. Our lawyers will review your information and begin the process of filing.
- Stay in contact with us. Our e-bike accident lawyers will keep you informed throughout the claim process. We empower our clients to participate in their claim and may need to discuss the progress with you.
Protecting Victims of E-bike Accidents in California
BD&J has proudly defended victims of accidents in California for many years. Our team of experienced injury lawyers have helped countless clients recover more than $2 billion* in total, ensuring they are taken care of as they recover and adjust to a new normal. If you have been injured in an e-bike accident, let us help you win your case. Contact BD&J to schedule a free consultation today.
