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What Are the Risks of Riding an Electric Bicycle?

 Posted on August 08, 2019 in Car Accidents

IL bike accident lawyerA popular mode of transportation these days are electric bicycles or “e-bikes.” Two basic types of e-bikes exist, throttle and pedal-assist, although many e-bikes have both. Pedal-assist e-bikes use a battery in addition to the power created by pedaling. E-bikes can reach speeds up to 27 miles per hour. Electric bikes are fairly inexpensive and many commuters see it as a convenient way to get to and from work without exerting much effort. However, there are unique dangers to riding this type of motorized bicycle. The higher speeds of an e-bike along with reckless driving behaviors of both cyclists and motorists can lead to significant injuries.

Common Types of E-Bike Injuries

The majority of e-bicycle accidents are due to negligence or recklessness. A variety of parties can be at fault, including other bicyclists, pedestrians, motorists, or the manufacturers of the bike. There have been reported cases of serious injuries suffered while riding pedal-assist e-bikes due to faulty brakes, lithium battery, and fork failure. A slight tap of the brakes can cause them to lock up and send riders flying over the handlebars. Other causes of e-bike accidents can include reckless drivers who are intoxicated or looking at their phones or pedestrians who do not pay attention to where they are going and crash into the cyclist.

The types of injuries suffered by falling off an electric bicycle or being hit by a pedestrian, another cyclist, or a driver can include the following:

  • Broken bones/fractures
  • Abrasions/lacerations /contusions
  • Dislocations (shoulder, arm, elbow, knee)
  • Head trauma (concussion, traumatic brain injury)
  • Internal bleeding/punctured lung
  • Spinal cord injury/paralysis

Safety Tips E-Bike Riding

The safety measures for riders of an electric bicycle are not that much different from a regular pedal bike, but due to the increased speeds at which this type of bike can travel, riders should be alert and aware of their surroundings at all times. Other safety tips to ensure a safe trip on an e-bike include:

  • Wear a helmet.
  • Use your lights.
  • Use warning devices (bell or horn).
  • Ride with traffic, not against it.
  • Use the designated bicycle lane (if applicable).
  • Keep your tires properly inflated.
  • Be a defensive driver.
  • Watch out for reckless motorists.

Contact a DuPage County Personal Injury Attorney

Electric bicycles are a fun way to get around town, but as with any motorized device, they can be dangerous, too. Injuries sustained from an e-bike accident can range from minor bruises and scrapes to concussions and broken bones. If you or a loved one was hurt while riding an electric bike, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. A knowledgeable Wheaton electric bicycle accident lawyer at the Law Offices of David W. Clark, P.C. can guide you through the process of determining liability for your e-bike accident and seeking compensation for your pain and suffering. Call 630-665-5678 today to schedule a free consultation.


Sources:

https://theoutline.com/post/2447/everyone-hates-e-bikes?zd=1&zi=n5tgkc2h
https://prodecotech.com/electric-bikes-safe/

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