While modern E-bikes were introduced in the early 1990s, they didn’t explode in popularity until the late 2010s to early 2020s. For many riders, an E-bike is a practical and eco-friendly alternative to driving, especially for shorter trips around town. Unfortunately, with the rise in usage has come an increase in E-bike accidents and injuries. In 2017, there were an estimated 751 E-bike injuries treated in emergency rooms compared to 23,493 injuries in 2022, while annual hospitalizations rose from 66 to 2,897 in the same period. E-bike riders are quite vulnerable in a collision because of the lack of protection bikes provide compared to a car or truck.
E-Bike Injury Statistics
These E-bike injury statistics show the dramatic increase in E-bike accidents since their use began to rise in 2017:
- Overall, there were an estimated 45,586 E-bike injuries treated in emergency departments (EDs) from 2017–2022 (NEISS-based peer-reviewed analysis), with 23,493 occurring in 2022 alone. In 2023 alone, there were an estimated 34,200 visits to the ED for E-bike injuries.
- Overall, there were an estimated 5,462 E-bike injury hospitalizations from 2017–2022, with 2,897 occurring in 2022 alone.
- E-bike related head injuries are increasing at the fastest pace of all types of E-bike crash related injuries, rising from an estimated 163 in 2017 to about 7,922 in 2022.
- There were approximately 193 E-bike fatalities between 2017–2023, with 53 of these fatalities occurring in 2022 alone.
When an E-bike accident results in serious injuries, riders may face significant medical care and recovery time, leading to high medical expenses and lost wages. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorized bicycle crash due to the negligent behavior of another driver, speak to an experienced bike accident attorney.
What is an E-Bike?
An E-bike is a type of motorized bicycle equipped with an electric motor that helps the rider pedal, making it much easier to ride uphill, travel longer distances, or go faster.
Washington State recognizes three classes of E-bikes:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with electric motor assistance up to 20 mph.
- Class 2: Has a throttle and can provide electric motor power without pedaling, up to 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only, with electric motor assistance up to 28 mph.
Washington State does not require a driver’s license to ride a legally defined E-bike, although riders under 16 are not permitted to operate a Class 3 E-bike.
Note: Washington State requires a motorcycle license for motorized bikes because they are classified as motor vehicles, while E-bikes are classified as bicycles and have specific limits on motor power and speed. Learn more about injury claims for motorized bike accidents here.
Who Can Be Held Liable for E-Bike Accidents?
If a rider is injured in an E-bike accident due to the negligence of another, they may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault party. Here are the most common parties who may be responsible for a crash involving an E-bike:
- Negligent Drivers
The biggest danger that E-bike riders face is from other drivers who may fail to see them, misjudge their speed or distance, or otherwise fail to share the road safely.
- Other Riders, Cyclists, and Pedestrians
In some cases, the actions of a pedestrian or cyclist may contribute to an E-bike accident. If their negligence or failure to exercise reasonable care played a role in causing the crash, they may share responsibility for the resulting injuries and damages.
- E-Bike Manufacturer
Under Washington State’s Product Liability Act, a manufacturer may be liable when a collision occurs because their product was not reasonably safe for use as it was intended. When product liability is involved in an E-bike collision, it is typically because the bike has a design defect, manufacturing defect, or came with inadequate warnings or instructions.
- Government Entities
Government entities may potentially be held liable for accidents caused by dangerous road conditions or improperly maintained roadways. For example, when an E-bike accident is caused by potholes, damaged pavement, inadequate signage, or other hazardous conditions. However, claims against government entities can involve specific legal requirements and deadlines, so it is important to consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
What Compensation Can Be Recovered For E-Bike Accidents?
Depending on the circumstances, an injured rider may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
Compensation may cover both current and future losses when an injury requires ongoing medical treatment or affects a person’s ability to work. The amount and types of damages available will depend on the severity of the injuries and the specific circumstances of the accident.
Seek the Help of a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced bike accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! Since 1979, our personal injury law firm, Tario & Associates, P.S., has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of people injured throughout Washington State, with local offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon to serve residents of Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and Snohomish counties. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you.
