Rise in E-bike Crashes Worldwide and How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help? 

Today, electric bicycles and e-bikes have gained prominence globally. It provides an eco-friendly and convenient alternative to conventional transportation. The capacity to combine pedal power with electric assistance makes them appropriate for urban commuting. It reduces the effort required for long-distance rides and uphill climbs. 

Individuals and cities seek environmentally friendly solutions to fight pollution and traffic congestion. Therefore, e-bikes today are one of the preferred choices for many, which results in lower carbon emissions. 

Also, the quick adoption of e-bikes led to an increase in accidents. According to the latest Forbes article, e-bike-related injuries have increased. It has increased to 23,493 in 2022 from 751 in 2017. This was published by the University of San Francisco and California in a peer-reviewed paper. 

Despite that, the sales of e-bikes have been increasing in the past few years. The market was anticipated to be nearly $2.6 billion in 2023. This means that the chances of e-bike accidents are still high and can lead to severe injuries and legal hassles. Hence, it is necessary to know whether a personal injury lawyer can help in managing the legal formalities. Keep reading to learn more. 

Common Injuries Sustained in E-bike Accidents

E-bike crashes can lead to severe injuries because of higher speed levels. The common ones include head trauma and concussions, which occur because some riders don’t wear a helmet. Even if there is protective gear, the impact from a collision or high-speed fall can result in acute head injuries. 

Additionally, fractures and broken bones are also frequent. This is mostly in the wrists, arms, and legs as the riders are thrown from the bike. There can be paralysis and even spinal cord injuries from severe accidents that lead to long-term disabilities. 

E-bike crashes can also lead to soft tissue injuries like road rash, bruises, and sprains. This requires medical assistance and a prolonged recovery time. Factors like rider inexperience, high speeds, and urban traffic risks result in e-bike accidents and fatal injuries. 

Reason E-bike Accidents in the US Are Increasing 

According to the New York Post, most Americans using e-bikes eventually end up in emergency rooms. Injuries from e-scooters have increased by 45%. The majority of injured riders were young males in their late 20s. Those involved in electric vehicle accidents were slightly older, mostly black, and didn’t wear helmets. Overall, black riders accounted for 24% of e-bike users, 11% of injured cyclists, and 17% of scooter riders. 

It is interesting to note that black riders had a 24% less chance of hospitalization in comparison to white riders in all vehicle types. One of the main reasons for the increasing number of e-bike crashes was alcohol consumption. It is also suggested that cities need to promote helmet use and sober riding and enhance infrastructure to reduce crashes. 

Keeping this in mind, the Department of Transportation and Mayor Eric Adamans started a campaign in NYC to educate e-bike riders. This happened in March to train e-bike riders to drive safely, follow speed limits, and brake and accelerate properly. 

Even Colorado Springs has shown its concern for e-bike-related mishaps. KKTV.com reported that the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services is searching for public views on e-bike use on city trails. Currently, e-bikes are restricted on several trails, open spaces, and parks. This is especially true in the properties that have been acquired through TOPS (Trails, Open Space, and Parks).

TOPS Manager Lonna Thelen acknowledged the growing popularity of e-bikes and the demand for trail access. The residents were allowed to submit their feedback online. Based on this, future protocols for trail access and e-bike regulations will be decided. 

However, if you are in Colorado Springs and experience an e-bike crash, you can seek legal assistance. Consult a Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer and share your case details. They will determine if you qualify for a lawsuit and provide you with the required legal guidance. This will help you receive the compensation you deserve to cover your losses. 

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help E-bike Accident Victims? 

A personal injury lawyer can help accident victims seek compensation and justice. After a crash, the lawyer investigates and gathers vital evidence. It includes accident reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to determine liability. They work to prove negligence, whether from another driver, a pedestrian, or unsafe road conditions.

Managing complex insurance claims is a crucial task that personal injury lawyers have to execute. Since there are several parties involved, the insurance companies can offer unfair settlements and dispute liability. 

According to Springs Law Group, a lawyer negotiates effectively and ensures victims receive the compensation they deserve. Lawyers can also file product liability claims in cases of mechanical failures and manufacturing defects. That aside, they can also provide vital support to victims for financial recovery and securing justice.

FAQs 

Why do you require a bicycle accident attorney?

Having a bicycle accident attorney on your side can be helpful if you experience an accident. They can hold negligent drivers, insurance companies, and other responsible parties accountable. These lawyers have the expertise needed to manage personal injury cases. Also, they are equipped to help you secure the maximum compensation for your injuries.

How long does it take to recover from a bike crash?

Bike accident crashes take time to heal. If you’ve suffered a broken bone or sprain, recovery may take at least two months. In the case of minor injuries, healing time is usually less than two months. However, you must remember that each person heals at their own pace. It’s important not to push yourself beyond your comfort level to ensure a full recovery.

What trauma are you likely to experience after a bicycle accident?

Bicycle accidents can significantly affect a victim’s mental health, often leading to conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Consulting with a therapist or counselor can be crucial in supporting emotional recovery and fostering mental well-being during the healing process.

Hence, the rise in e-bike accidents globally can be attributed to factors like increased speed, amateur riders, and mechanical failures. The accidents lead to severe bruises and injuries that need medical assistance. After that, you should consult a personal injury lawyer for legal assistance and receive your compensation. Finally, e-bike riders should also stay alert on the road and wear helmets to prioritize safety.