Electric bicycles, commonly called e-bikes, have surged in popularity across Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura County, and Southern California. They offer convenience, affordability, and a greener way to travel. But with more e-bikes on the road and sidewalks, the number of e-bike accidents has increased, including serious injuries to riders and pedestrians.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an e-bike accident, or if you were a pedestrian hit by an e-bike, understanding your legal rights and what to do next can make a critical difference in your recovery and compensation. An experienced e-bike accident attorney can guide you through the legal process, help determine liability, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
What Is an E-Bike and Why Are Accidents Increasing?
Electric bikes are bicycles equipped with an electric motor that assists with propulsion. They range from low-speed commuter bikes to high-powered models capable of speeds of 20–28+ mph. While many riders enjoy safer travel, e-bikes also pose risks:
- Higher speeds compared to regular bicycles
- Unpredictable movement in traffic
- Riders unfamiliar with traffic laws
- Shared use on bike lanes, streets, and sidewalks
Because e-bike accidents can result in traumatic injuries, understanding California e-bike laws and their impact on liability is essential after a crash.
Common Causes of E-Bike Accidents
1. Distracted Riding
E-bike riders using phones or GPS can drift into traffic or strike pedestrians.
Case Example: A rider in Santa Monica was checking directions on his phone and didn’t see a family crossing at a crosswalk. He struck a 7-year-old child, causing fractures and a concussion. The child’s family pursued a claim citing negligent riding.
2. Speeding and Loss of Control
E-bikes can accelerate quickly, and excessive speed often leads to loss of control.
3. Improper Lane Usage
When riders use sidewalks, pedestrians are at risk.
Case Example: In downtown Los Angeles, a commuter e-bike rider traveling on the sidewalk hit an elderly pedestrian. The victim suffered a hip fracture and traumatic brain injury. Liability was contested because California law generally prohibits e-bikes on sidewalks unless local ordinances allow it.
4. Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, uneven pavement, or debris can cause riders to fall or swerve into pedestrians.
5. Dooring Accidents
When a driver opens a car door into the path of an e-bike rider, a crash may occur, which sometimes involves multiple victims, including pedestrians.
Injuries in E-Bike Accidents: Riders and Pedestrians
E-bike accidents can cause severe injuries for both riders and pedestrians:
Rider Injuries
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures of arms, legs, and ribs
- Road rash and lacerations
- Internal organ damage
Pedestrian Injuries
- Broken bones
- Head and neck trauma
- Soft tissue injuries
- Chronic pain
Case Example: A pedestrian in San Diego was walking through a crosswalk when an e-bike rider failed to stop at a red light. The pedestrian suffered multiple fractures and required months of rehabilitation. The victim’s legal team proved the rider’s negligence by showing the traffic camera footage.
Determining Liability in an E-Bike Accident
Liability in an electric bike crash depends on the situation. Here are key factors:
Negligence by the E-Bike Rider
Most e-bike accident claims involve rider negligence, such as failure to follow traffic laws, reckless riding, or distraction.
Shared Fault
In some cases, more than one party may be at fault. California operates under comparative negligence, meaning compensation may be reduced if the injured party shares fault.
Third-Party Liability
Sometimes a third party (like a vehicle driver, property owner, or manufacturer) may share responsibility.
Case Example: An e-bike rider hit a pedestrian near an apartment complex. The investigation showed that the complex had poor lighting and uneven walkways. The claim included a premises-liability claim against the property owner for unsafe conditions.
What to Do After an E-Bike Crash (Step-by-Step)
If you’re injured or you witness someone hit by an e-bike:
1. Seek Medical Treatment Immediately: Even if you feel okay, some injuries show symptoms later. Documenting your injuries helps your claim.
2. Call 911 and File a Police Report: A police report provides an official record of the crash details.
3. Collect Evidence
Take photos of:
- Injuries
- Scene
- Bike and vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Witness contact info
4. Report the Accident to Your Insurance: Your health insurance or auto policy (if applicable) may cover some costs.
5. Contact an E-Bike Accident Attorney: A personal injury lawyer experienced in e-bike accidents can help preserve evidence, determine liability, and pursue compensation.
Types of Compensation You May Be Eligible For
Victims of e-bike accidents may pursue compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future medical bills, hospital care, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost Income: If injuries cause you to miss work or reduce your earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property Damage: Replacement or repair costs for the e-bike, phone, or other personal items.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If an accident results in death, families can pursue wrongful death claims.
How an E-Bike Accident Attorney Builds Your Case
A seasoned electric bike accident lawyer will:
- Investigate the Scene: Collect police reports, photos, traffic cam footage, and witness statements.
- Gather Expert Testimony: Accident reconstruction experts may be used to determine fault.
- Negotiate with Insurers: Insurance companies often undervalue claims. An attorney fights for fair compensation.
- File a Lawsuit if Needed: If negotiations fail, your lawyer will file a personal injury lawsuit and take your case to trial if necessary.
E-Bike Laws in California: What Riders and Pedestrians Should Know
California law classifies e-bikes into three classes:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph
- Class 2: Throttle-assist up to 20 mph
- Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph (helmet required)
Pedestrians generally have the right of way on sidewalks and crosswalks. However, many cities prohibit e-bikes on sidewalks altogether. Knowing local ordinances is important when proving negligence in a collision.
Real Examples: E-Bike Accident Cases
Case 1: Collision at a Crosswalk (Los Angeles) A Class 3 e-bike rider ran a red light and struck a pedestrian crossing legally. The victim suffered a broken arm and TBI. With legal representation, the victim secured a seven-figure settlement after proving the rider’s negligence and reckless speeding.
Case 2: Sidewalk Impact (Long Beach) An elderly woman was walking her dog when a speeding e-bike rider on the sidewalk collided with her. The woman required hip surgery. Because local law prohibited e-bikes on sidewalks, her attorney established fault based on illegal operation.
Case 3: Dooring and E-Bike Rider Injury (Pasadena) A driver opened a car door into an e-bike rider, causing the rider to crash into a pedestrian. Both the rider and the pedestrian were injured. The driver’s insurance was ultimately found liable to both victims through a complex negotiation driven by expert reconstruction evidence.
Common Misconceptions About E-Bike Accidents
“E-Bikes Are Safe and Low-Risk”
While e-bikes can be safe when used properly, higher speeds and mixed traffic increase the risk of injury.
“If the Pedestrian Was Hit, the Rider Is Always at Fault”
Not always. Investigators look at comparative fault, signage, roadway conditions, and local laws.
“Insurance Always Pays Quickly”
Insurers often delay or devalue claims. Legal representation improves outcomes.
Why You Need an E-Bike Accident Attorney
A qualified attorney:
- Knows California accident and traffic laws
- Understands how to handle claims involving pedestrians
- Has connections to medical and expert resources
- Fights for maximum financial recovery
Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless you win.
FAQs: E-Bike Accidents and Injuries
Q: What if I were partly at fault?
A: California uses comparative negligence. You can still recover damages even if partially at fault, though your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
Q: Can pedestrians file a claim after being hit by an e-bike?
A: Yes. Pedestrians have rights to compensation for medical bills, trauma, lost wages, and pain.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of injury. For wrongful death, it may be shorter. Always consult an attorney early.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Rights After an E-Bike Collision
Electric bikes are transforming how people travel in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura County, and Southern California. But rising popularity means more collisions, serious injuries, and complex legal issues.
If you were injured as an e-bike rider, struck as a pedestrian by an e-bike, or hit as a motorist in a collision involving an electric bicycle, you deserve justice and full compensation. Contact an experienced e-bike accident attorney who understands traffic laws, local ordinances, and how to build strong personal injury claims.
At Arshakyan Law Firm, we’ve helped victims recover millions in compensation after catastrophic bike and pedestrian accidents. We are in your corner, fighting for your rights and your future. Call us today at (818) 650-9985 for a free, confidential consultation.