Planning to Use an E-Bike this Summer? Here’s What You Need to Know

Bicycles and e-bikes are a great way to commute to work, explore your city, and have fun outside. However, many other drivers and cyclists are unfamiliar with e-bikes, putting riders at risk of getting into an accident. Since this type of transport is becoming increasingly common on our roads, it’s essential to know the risks and best practices of operating an e-bike. At James H. Brown and Associates, our team has centuries of experience assisting bicycle accident victims in attaining compensation for their injuries. Below we will discuss some of the common causes of e-bike accidents and some safety tips you can follow to reduce the threat of getting into an accident. Continue reading to learn more!

Common Causes of E-Bike Accidents

Whether you use an e-bike or bicycle either for your daily commute or to get out and have fun, the unfortunate reality is that there are several risks associated with riding bikes. While cyclists have similar rights, responsibilities, and privileges as motor vehicle drivers, other drivers do not always treat cyclists the same way they would treat other drivers on the road. For those who choose to ride bicycles or e-bikes, it’s essential to be aware that bicycle accidents can be especially traumatic for victims. These accidents tend to be more severe due to the lack of protection on e-bikes and bicycles as compared to other motor vehicles. This means recovering from a collision can be more expensive and complex. Like other motor vehicle accidents, e-bike and bicycle accidents can be caused by several factors. Some of the most common factors include the following:

• Collisions with other cyclists or pedestrians
• Collisions with motor vehicles
• Improper maintenance
• Manufacturing defects
• Excessive speeds
• Operating the e-bike or bicycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failure to adhere to the rules of the road

Accidents involving e-bikes and bicycles can be severe or even fatal, depending on the circumstance and parties involved. If you or a loved one is injured in a bicycle accident, James H. Brown and Associates are here to help! Our team of personal injury lawyers is prepared to assist you in seeking fair compensation for your injuries. That way, you can focus on what matters most: your recovery and health. 

E-Bike Safety Tips

A misconception many people have about e-bikes is that the same safety tips that apply to bicycles also apply to e-bikes. While there is some crossover between the two, it’s important to remember that some e-bikes can reach speeds up to 32 km/h, which means injuries can be severe. With that in mind, it’s critical that you operate your e-bike (and bicycle) safely. Some safety tips to keep in mind are:

• Always wear a helmet.
• Obey all traffic rules.
• Operate your e-bike at a controlled and safe speed.
• Use lights and warning devices like a bell or horn, and wear bright or reflective clothing to ensure others can see and hear you.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.
• Leave space for motorists, pedestrians, and other cyclists.
• Never operate an e-bike or bicycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Unfortunately, the unexpected may still occur despite all of the proper precautions in place. When you or a loved one has been injured in an e-bike or bicycle accident, James H. Brown and Associates has your back! Our award-winning personal injury lawyers team has over 250 years of combined personal injury law experience. Our experience, combined with our strong relationships with local support programs and our passion for standing up for the rights of victims, James H. Brown and Associates are here to help you fight for your rights and get the compensation you deserve. 

Get Started with the Heavy Hitters of Personal Injury Law

E-bike and bicycle accidents are hazardous, traumatic events. However, you don’t have the navigate the path to recovery alone! James H. Brown and Associates are here to help you through every step of your personal injury claim. Our team is here to support you, from assisting in advancing your claim to achieving fair compensation and managing care and treatment. James H. Brown and Associates are here to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Ready to learn more about how James H. Brown and Associates can support you and your loved ones? Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation!