What if I Am Injured on an Electric Bicycle in New York?

Throughout many U.S. cities, people own or rent different types of electric bikes as a convenient way of seeing the sights or simply getting from point A to point B. New York City legalized pedal-assist e-bikes last year, but throttle-controlled e-bikes and e-scooters remain illegal under New York state and city laws. Pedal assist, also referred to as “pedelec,” is a mode that provides power only when a rider is pedaling. Similar to traditional bikes, pedal-assist bicycles can help cyclists travel longer distances and climb steep hills more easily. Unfortunately, these types of e-bikes have been involved in a wide variety of accidents, resulting in crippling injuries for the riders in some cases.

Common Causes of E-Bike Accidents

There have been documented cases of significant injuries sustained on pedal-assist e-bikes due to faulty brakes. Simply tapping the brakes gently can cause them to lock up and send riders flying over the handlebars. Other causes of e-bike accidents can include negligent drivers or pedestrians who do not pay attention to where they are going and crash into the cyclist. Additional causes of e-bike accidents can also involve any of the following:

• Hazards in the road (rocks, trash)
• Speeding or going too fast for conditions
• Defective parts / equipment
• Other vehicles / drivers on the road
• Cyclist error (not knowing how to properly operate the bike)

Common Types of E-Bike Injuries

Some people have suffered debilitating injuries after falling off pedal-assist e-bikes. In certain situations, these injuries result in extended hospital stays, plus steep medical bills and consequently, a person not being able to work. Some serious injuries that can occur include:

• Fractures / broken bones
• Road rash / abrasions / lacerations / contusions
• Dislocations (arm, elbow, shoulder, knee)
• Head trauma (concussion, traumatic brain injury)
• Internal bleeding / punctured lung

Contact a Brooklyn, NY Personal Injury Attorney

Electric bicycles are a popular mode of transportation for getting around cities these days. However, as with any motorized device, they can lead to accidents and cause injuries due to faulty parts or other vehicles on the road. If you or a loved one are hurt while riding a pedal-assist e-bike, the experienced legal team of Goldberg Sager & Associates will pursue compensation on your behalf after determining liability for your damages. Call a New York City electric bicycle accident lawyer at 718-514-9516 today to schedule a consultation.

Sources: 

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/CVP/214

https://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/ny-citi-bike-electrics-injury-complaints-20190421-5fq26lrlbvbihj2re7zpqhiepi-story.html

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2001/0515/p2007.html