An electric bicycle is something of a hybrid. It is still a bike and does have a pedal system that the rider can use, but it also has an electric motor. Some use this to assist their efforts to pedal while others use these bikes like a moped — not pedaling at all. Electric bikes are especially popular with commuters who do not want the expense of a car — or the pollution it causes — but who do not want to cycle every day.
While there are many upsides to these bikes and there’s a reason they’ve grown so popular, it is important to note that they’re more dangerous than traditional bicycles.
Studies have found that those who use these e-bikes have a higher rate of internal injuries. They also end up in the hospital more often. People on powered scooters — a different but similar means of transportation — have higher concussion rates.
Why does this happen? One potential reason is that a powered vehicle allows a rider to keep a higher rate of speed for longer, meaning they’re more likely to be traveling quickly when they crash. Another thing to consider is that commuters may ride their e-bikes during rush hour, which has the highest traffic levels. Meanwhile, those who ride traditional bikes for exercise alone may end up riding at hours with lower traffic levels and sticking to roads and trails where cars aren’t as common.
Regardless of the reasons, it is clear that cyclists can and do get injured frequently. Those who do get injured need to make sure they are well aware of the legal options they have to seek compensation for their financial losses when someone else is at fault.