E-bikes have become a popular, convenient, and eco-friendly way to get around, and their growth has raised real safety concerns. In a recent episode of the Legal Mastermind Podcast, hosts Eric Bersano, Ryan Klein, and Chase Williams discuss these issues with Pajman Jassim, a trial attorney and principal of Jassim Law in San Diego. This recap covers the key points of their conversation: why e-bikes carry different risks than traditional bicycles, why training matters for riders and drivers, and what the legal side of an e-bike crash can look like.
E-bikes, while a great alternative for transportation, come with risks that set them apart from traditional bicycles. They can reach higher speeds with less physical effort, which can be particularly hazardous for young and inexperienced riders. Jassim emphasizes that many parents and riders are unaware of these risks. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, e-bikes were associated with an estimated 53,200 emergency department visits and 104 deaths from 2017 through 2022 (CPSC micromobility report, 2017 to 2022), and the agency notes that reporting on deaths is ongoing and likely incomplete.
The conversation highlighted the need for proper training for both e-bike riders and motorists. E-bikes can accelerate quickly, and drivers often underestimate their speed. That misjudgment can lead to serious crashes, especially at intersections or during turns. For younger riders, the danger is more pronounced, since risk-taking behavior combined with a fast bike can lead to severe outcomes. Educating both cyclists and drivers on how e-bikes behave is a central part of prevention.
If you want the episode itself, our EP 269 show notes with Pajman Jassim include the audio player and links to his firm.
The Increasing Popularity and Associated Dangers of E-Bikes
E-bike use has grown noticeably, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, as people look for greener transportation options. E-bikes offer independence and ease of travel for riders of all ages, from children to seniors. More riders on the road has also meant more crashes and injuries. Jassim notes that his firm, which handles catastrophic injury cases, has seen a significant uptick in e-bike-related incidents.
One of the primary differences between e-bikes and traditional bicycles is acceleration and top speed. Many e-bikes are built to provide motor assistance up to 20 miles per hour, and faster models assist up to 28 miles per hour, which can catch both riders and motorists off guard. Those speeds call for more careful control and respect for the bike’s capabilities, something young riders may not fully grasp. E-bikes are also heavier than regular bicycles, which can make them harder to maneuver and stop.
The statistics and examples discussed in the podcast point to the need for better safety measures and awareness. With e-bikes now a common sight on roads and bike lanes, cyclists and drivers both need to understand how to share the road. Proper lighting, following traffic laws, and avoiding risky behavior are basic steps for preventing crashes.
Legal Considerations and Recommendations for E-Bike Riders
After an e-bike crash, speaking with an attorney can help an injured rider understand their options. Jassim explains that cyclists, including e-bike riders, can face bias in crash investigations. Police reports may not always give a complete account of what happened, especially if the rider was too injured to give a statement at the scene. An attorney can help make sure the investigation considers factors such as road conditions, driver behavior, and potential negligence by other parties.
The episode also covers uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This insurance can provide a safety net when the at-fault driver has no insurance or too little to cover serious injuries. Jassim encourages parents and e-bike riders to review their own auto policies and understand what UM/UIM coverage they carry, since it can make a meaningful difference after a serious crash.
Preserving evidence is another point Jassim stresses. He recommends documenting the crash scene, gathering witness information, and securing any available video footage as soon as possible. Those steps can help reconstruct the events leading up to a collision and give a clearer picture of what happened.
Ensuring E-Bike Safety for All
Reducing e-bike risk takes a combined approach: training for riders, awareness among motorists, and clear legal protections. Parents should talk with their children about safe riding practices and plan routes that avoid high-speed roads and dangerous intersections. Proper lighting and helmet use add another layer of protection.
Jassim emphasizes that while e-bikes offer many benefits, they call for a higher level of responsibility and awareness. By educating riders and reinforcing safety habits, communities can enjoy the advantages of e-bikes while lowering the risks.
Discover More Insights on the Legal Mastermind Podcast
The Legal Mastermind Podcast covers many aspects of legal practice, including the trends and challenges firms face today. Hosted by Eric Bersano, Ryan Klein, and Chase Williams from Market My Market, the podcast features conversations with attorneys and industry leaders about growing and managing law firms. Personal injury firms interested in how topics like e-bike safety fit into their outreach can learn more about our personal injury marketing services.
To keep learning about legal marketing and management, listen to more episodes of the Legal Mastermind Podcast. Visit the Legal Mastermind Podcast, or fill out our contact form for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions About E-Bike Safety
How many e-bike injuries does the CPSC report?
The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated about 53,200 emergency department visits and reported 104 deaths associated with e-bikes from 2017 through 2022. The agency notes that death reporting for that period is ongoing, so the actual count may be higher.
Why are e-bikes riskier than regular bicycles?
E-bikes can reach higher speeds with less effort and are heavier than standard bicycles, so they take longer to stop and are harder to maneuver. Drivers also tend to underestimate how fast an e-bike is approaching, which can lead to crashes at intersections and during turns.
What is UM/UIM coverage and why does it matter for e-bike riders?
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is part of an auto policy that can help pay for injuries when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough. Whether and how it applies to an e-bike crash depends on the policy and state law, so riders should review their coverage with their insurer or an attorney.
What should an e-bike rider do after a crash?
Get medical care first. When it is safe, document the scene with photos, collect witness contact information, note any nearby cameras that may have recorded the crash, and keep copies of medical and repair records. Speaking with a personal injury attorney can help a rider understand their options.