Electric Bike Accident Attorneys
Motorized bicycle accidents are all too common of an occurrence, and they can result in serious or even fatal injuries. An e-bike accident can have life-altering consequences, but getting just compensation can help victims and their families to get their lives back on track. The seasoned attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP are well-equipped to handle your accident claim and will fight tirelessly to secure the best outcome possible. Call us today for a free case evaluation to get started.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents?
Bicycle and e-bike accidents typically share the same causes. Many motorized bicycle accidents are caused by someone else’s negligence. A sizable number of e-bike accidents happen when negligent drivers fail to obey road rules and aren’t vigilant about cyclists. A personal injury attorney can help you hold these drivers accountable for their actions.
Another common cause of e-bike accidents is defects in the road or cycling path. These dangerous defects can include potholes, misplaced construction plates, grates, road hardware, trenches, and other obstacles that should not be in areas where people ride e-bikes.
Unfortunately, e-bike accidents have increased in recent years. Due to the unenclosed nature of these vehicles, accidents and the resulting injuries can be quite severe. Electric bike deaths have also increased as the popularity of these vehicles has grown.
Typical E-Bike Injuries
All manner of injuries can occur in an e-bike accident, from sprains to broken bones to brain injuries. Some of the common injuries that occur in e-bike accidents include:
- Hemorrhaging
- Brain injuries
- Fractures
- Contusive trauma
- Lacerations
- Collapsed lung
- Scrapes and bruises
Electric Bike Laws and Regulations
Each state has its own set of laws and regulations that define electric bikes and the ways they must be used. Many states classify e-bikes into Class 1, 2, and 3 categories, defined by the maximum speeds they can reach. Generally, e-bikes can’t exceed speeds of 28 mph or else they’re no longer classified as a low-speed electric bike. States also have differing laws regarding the use of helmets, what kind of insurance is needed to operate e-bikes, if any, and where these bikes may be used. Some municipalities may not allow motorized bikes on trails, for example.
Common Electric Bike Problems Stemming From Product Defects
Some e-bike accidents may occur as a result of a defect in the bike itself. A bike suddenly losing power or jamming can certainly lead to an accident. Some of the most common parts of an e-bike to experience failure include:
- The front fork
- The battery
- The throttle
- The pedal assist system
- The rear axle
- The chainstay
Not all issues with an e-bike result from defects in these parts, but they’re certainly possible. These parts may also be prone to natural wear and tear or break due to mishandling of the e-bike.
Do I Have an Electric Bike Accident Case?
If you believe that your electric bike accident occurred as a result of another party’s negligence, then you might be able to recover compensation for your injuries. The next step is to contact an attorney at Parker Waichman for a free consultation. We’ll help you determine who is liable, what your case may be worth, what evidence may be needed, and how to proceed with your case. To schedule your free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney, contact us by phone at 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER or fill out our online form today.
