E-bikes Pose New Dangers on the Roads

Experts have warned that electric bikes carry a higher risk of severe injury and pose a greater threat to pedestrians than traditional bikes.

The dangers of e-bikes

Until recently, electric bikes – or ‘e-bikes’ – were a rarity. Now, however, they are a common sight in cities across the world. Thanks to advancements in technology and affordability, they are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport, particularly amongst commuters.

But while an e-bike allows you to cruise up hills with relatively little input, they do come with dangers. Most notably, they are bigger and heavier than traditional bikes – and can travel at faster speeds. This is a potentially risky combination.

To counter these dangers, e-bikes in Canada are restricted to 32km per hour with 500 watts of power. They must also have a braking distance of at least nine metres and must weigh less than 120 kilograms.

Even so, a study by the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) found that people riding e-bikes are more likely to suffer internal injuries and end up in hospital than those riding traditional bikes.

E-bikes also pose a threat to other road users. The same study discovered that e-bike injuries are more than three times as likely to involve a collision with a pedestrian, when compared to traditional bikes and electric scooters.

Stay vigilant

Although there are rules regarding e-bikes, most cities have yet to implement the legislation and the infrastructure needed to accommodate them safely. Because of this, it is important to remain vigilant, no matter whether you are a pedestrian, a cyclist or a driver.

If you are involved in an accident with an e-bike, there is a very real chance that you will sustain a serious injury. If this has happened to you or your loved one, we recommend that you contact us at John Mickelson Law Corporation.

You probably know that if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident which was not your fault, you are entitled to compensation. The same could be true if you are injured by an e-bike, or while traveling on an e-bike.

However, the process can be different from making a car accident claim. For example, if you are injured by an e-bike as a pedestrian, you will likely have to make a claim against the cyclist’s home insurance policy.

At John Mickelson Law Corporation, we specialise in personal injury claims. We are also keen cyclists. We know precisely what is and what is not allowed. If you have been injured through no fault of your own, we can help you.

Vancouver personal injury lawyer

To speak to a Vancouver personal injury lawyer, please contact us now for a free consultation.

Either fill in the free online enquiry form or call us on 604 684 0040.

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