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If you ride an e-bike to and from work or for recreational purposes, it is crucial to understand how to do so safely to avoid accidents and injuries. Actions like wearing a helmet, understanding state laws, not carrying passengers, and staying out of blindspots can help keep you safe and ensure you do your part to avoid an accident. However, sometimes, no matter how safe you operate an e-bike, another party neglects their duty to care for your safety and causes an e-bike crash or serious injuries.
If you have been hurt in an e-bike accident due to another person’s negligence, you have the right to file a claim and pursue compensation with the help of our experienced lawyers at Butler Injury Law. We have years of experience providing exceptional legal services to Texas e-bike accident victims, so you can rely on us to fight for your rights and take your legal burdens off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery.
Like any motorist, an e-bike rider owes those around them a duty to act carefully and safely. While you cannot control how others act on the road, you can increase your protection and reduce your risk of serious e-bike injuries with the following safety tips:
While Texas has no statewide helmet laws, local jurisdictions may have their own regulations. Even if you do not have to legally wear a helmet, doing so helps protect you against serious injuries and head trauma. When choosing a helmet, you should consider a multi-directional impact protection option to reduce rotational impacts and concussion injuries.
Before riding an e-bike, knowing state and local laws is essential. The Texas Transportation Code divides e-bikes into three categories, Class I, II, and III. Class I e-bikes only assist the rider when they are pedaling and do not exceed 20 miles per hour. Class II e-bikes have a motor that propels the bike without the rider pedaling and, like Class I e-bikes, go up to 20 miles per hour. Class III e-bikes have a motor that assists only when the rider pedals and go up to 28 miles per hour.
Other Texas laws all riders should know include the following:
E-bike riders, just like all motorists, must also follow the rules of the road. This includes obeying traffic signals and lights, avoiding sudden stops, using signals to indicate turns, and operating the vehicle safely.
When purchasing an e-bike, consider choosing ones with built-in safety features that can help protect you from injuries and ensure you follow state laws. These features include the following:
Reflectors: Reflectors are fixed on certain parts of your e-bike to catch the eye and help others around you see you.
Disc brakes: E-bikes are heavier, larger, and faster than traditional bikes, so they take a longer distance to come to a complete stop. Disc brakes give the e-bike appropriate stopping power.
Class sticker: Your e-bike should have a sticker indicating its class, wattage, and top speed. Knowing this information helps you follow Texas laws and avoid restricted areas.
Motor-interrupt brake levers: This type of brake lever turns off your motor when you pull it, so if you have to stop immediately or suddenly, your motor will turn off and prevent a serious accident.
With these safety features and other accessories, such as reflective vests, rearview mirrors, and lights, you can stay visible and be more aware of your surroundings when riding an e-bike.
E-bikes require regular maintenance to stay safe to operate, so checking your tires, wheels, and brakes to ensure everything is firmly attached and functioning properly can help prevent accidents caused by mechanical errors.
If your e-bike is not designed to carry a passenger, you should avoid doing so, as you may exceed the bike’s weight limit and impact your bike’s stopping distance. E-bikes built for two people are designed to distribute weight evenly and have safety features that make carrying a passenger safer.
Unfortunately, no matter how closely you follow safety measures, another party may breach their duty of care and cause an e-bike accident. If you have suffered injuries in an e-bike crash due to another person’s negligence, you can protect your rights and increase your chance of securing maximum compensation by taking the following steps:
Our dedicated team of attorneys understands how overwhelming the aftermath of an e-bike accident can be, so we work closely with you to take your legal burdens off your shoulders. We support and communicate with you every step of the way, giving you the knowledge you need to make the best decisions for your future.
Riding an e-bike can be a fantastic way to commute, but even the most cautious rider can’t control the recklessness of others on the road. If you’ve taken every safety precaution but still find yourself in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, it’s time to take action.
At Butler Injury Law, we understand how devastating an e-bike accident can be. Let us handle the complexities of your case so you can focus on healing. With personalized strategies and unwavering dedication, we fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (512) 270-2473 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.
About Our Attorney
Rian Butler is a dedicated personal injury attorney based in Austin, Texas, known for his strong commitment to advocating for individuals against large corporations. Before establishing his own personal injury law firm, Rian played a pivotal role in managing economic loss claims related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, helping clients recover over $50 million. As the lead attorney at Butler Injury Law, he continues to represent clients in cases involving auto accidents, premises liability, and workplace injuries, providing personalized attention and a relentless pursuit of justice. Clients frequently commend Rian for his empathetic approach, clear communication, and ability to secure favorable resolutions efficiently.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident, contact Butler Injury Law today to schedule a free case evaluation.
