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Attorneys Pursuing Fair Compensation For Injured E-Bicycle Riders

Nothing seems fair about being struck by a car, truck or bus while you are lawfully riding an electrical bicycle (e-bike or e-bicycle). After the initial shock of an e-bike crash, you may experience back, shoulder or neck pain while in the emergency room, a hospital room or your home. You may have broken bones or be more seriously injured with a traumatic brain or spinal cord injury. In addition to getting a prompt medical evaluation and following doctors’ orders, you need legal advice to protect your future.

At Nield Law Group, APC, we aim to help clients get compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Understanding E-Bikes And California’s Laws Designed To Protect Riders’ Safety

State and federal laws governing the use of e-bicycles include California’s Assembly Bill 1096 from 2015, which regulates speed and pedal assistance of e-bikes, and the Federal Electric Bicycle Law, H4 727, covering legal and safety protections for e-bike riders. California’s Vehicle Code classifies e-bikes, as follows:

  • Class 1, assisting pedaling up to a speed of 20 miles per hour (mph)
  • Class 2, motorized and propelling the bicycle up to a speed of 20 mph
  • Class 3, pedal-assisted up to a speed of 28 mph and equipped with a speedometer

In terms of traffic laws, e-bikes are generally considered equivalent to ordinary bicycles on California streets and roadways. At the same time, they may be more dangerous because of their speeds and because e-bike operators do not need licenses for themselves or their bikes.

A Lawyer Can Help Prove That You Were Not At Fault

Because of California’s comparative negligence rules, an injured e-bicyclist’s actions may be scrutinized by insurers to settle questions of fault. The following rules and safety guidelines from the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles may determine whether e-bike rider was negligent before an accident:

  • Bicyclists (including operators of e-bikes) must obey all traffic laws and stay alert.
  • They should use hand signals before turning, changing lanes or stopping.
  • They must obey stop signs, traffic signals and right-of-way rules.
  • They must never make a left turn from the right side of a road, even if they are in a bike lane.

With skilled legal representation, injured e-bicyclists who have collided with cars, trucks, vans and buses may be able to recover compensation from negligent motorists or from their own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

Get Legal Advice Promptly After An E-Bike Crash

Protect your health and financial future by consulting with a doctor and a personal injury lawyer. Call 800-827-1458 or complete an online form to request a free consultation. You will not owe attorney fees until you receive a settlement or verdict.