In the past few years, electric bikes (eBikes) have skyrocketed in popularity, offering an easier eco-friendly alternative to traditional transportation methods. As with any mode of transportation, accidents can occur. If you get into an accident on an eBike, catastrophic injuries can occur as they offer little protection for the rider. If you have been involved in an electric bicycle accident, it is crucial that you understand the steps that you can take to protect your rights and well being.
Immediate Steps to Take After an eBike Accident
Check for Injures
Safety comes first. Immediately after the accident assess yourself and anyone else for any injuries. If anyone is hurt make sure that they seek medical attention immediately, as catching an injury early on can help lessen the severity of an injury, and can reveal any underlying injuries.
Move to Safety
If the accident occurred in the flow of traffic, try to move all vehicles involved into a safe location. You should only move the scene of the accident if it is safe to do so, and if it would not worsen the injuries someone may have sustained.
Exchange Information
It is crucial to obtain the contact and insurance information from that at fault party, as well as any other parties involved. Be sure to collect the contact information and names of any witnesses as well, this information is critical for insurance claims and can greatly help any potential legal actions.
Document the Scene
If it is safe to do so, take as many photographs and videos of the accident scene as you can. Document your injuries, any damages to your eBike, and any damages to any vehicles involved. This documentation can provide valuable evidence in an insurance claim, and can help legitimize any of the injuries that you have suffered from your case.
Report the Accident
Here in Utah, no matter the severity or the location of the accident you are required to report it to local law enforcement. Contacting the police will ensure that an official police report will be created. This report will contain the officer’s opinion on who is at fault for the accident, as well as the written statements from all those at the accident scene. This report is crucial for a personal injury claim as the majority of insurance companies will make their decision of who is at fault based on the police report.
Legal Considerations and Seeking Compensation
Getting injured in an eBike accident can result in serious injuries, and you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, the damages to your eBike, as well as any other losses you may have incurred. It is important to consider the following when you pursue compensation for your injuries:
- Liability: Determining who is at fault in an eBike accident can be complex, and can rely on several factors. These factors such as road conditions, adherence to traffic laws, and the actions of all parties involved will be considered in determining who is at fault for the accident.
- Insurance Claims: Depending on the accident’s circumstances you may have to rely on different types of insurance (the at-fault party’s vehicle insurance, your health insurance, or a homeowner’s insurance policy) may cover the damages you received.
- Legal Representation: If you were injured in an eBike accident consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in bicycle accidents can provide you with valuable guidance. Insurance companies will try to minimize the amount they pay for your injuries no matter how severe they are. A bike accident attorney will fight for your right to fair compensation, as well as navigate the complicated legal process so you can focus on your recovery.
Staying Safe as an eBike Rider
While it is pivotal to know what you should do after an accident, it is equally important to know how you can stay safe and avoid an accident. To help reduce the risk of an accident consider doing the following:
- Wear a Helmet: A helmet reduces the risk of a head injury by 85%, brain injury by 88%, and severe brain injury by at least 75%. It is crucial to your safety that you wear a helmet any time you ride your eBike as it is your number one defense against severe head injuries.
- Follow Traffic Laws: Here in Utah an eBike is required to follow the same traffic laws that apply to any vehicle on the road. This means that you must signify your turns with hand signals, ride with the flow of traffic, and follow all traffic signals.
- Be Visible: Being visible is the most important thing you can do while you are riding an eBike. Make sure that your eBike is equipped with lights and reflectors, and that you wear bright or reflective clothing, especially if you are riding at night or in low visibility conditions.
- Maintain Your eBike: Regular maintenance over your eBike is crucial to it working properly, and can prevent any accidents that may be caused by mechanical failures.
An eBike accident can be a traumatic experience and can result in serious life altering injuries. It is vital for anyone riding an eBike to understand their legal rights as it can significantly impact the outcome of an injury claim. By taking immediate steps to ensure safety and protect your rights, you can navigate the aftermath of an eBike accident more effectively. Be sure that you always prioritize your safety and the safety of others, both in preventing accidents and in the steps you take following an accident. If you have been injured, make sure you contact the best bike accident lawyers in Utah at LifeLaw Personal Injury. Our team of experts are highly experienced in the world of cycling. In fact, one of our attorneys David Francis was on the U.S Olympic Cycling team, and competed alongside teammates Lance Armstrong, Jonathan Vaughters, and George Hincapie. Let our team of experts handle your case from start to finish, ensuring that everything is taken care of so you can focus on your recovery. If you or someone you know has been injured, contact our team of bike accident lawyers today for a free consultation, and to discuss your options further. 801-206-4002.