The BBC has recently published an article putting E-bike injuries in the spotlight. Over 150 people were treated for injuries relating to e-bikes in 6 months at the Royal London Hospital, with surgeons labelling e-bikes as a ‘massive burden’.
The surge in e-bike accidents
E-bike injuries can range from multiple fractures to severe brain injuries in both adults and children. The injuries are often more severe than those suffered from traditional bicycles due to the higher speeds and heavier frames of e-bikes.
One surgeon noted the strain this influx places on NHS resources, while his colleague highlighted how patients are “struggling to get back to normality” after such traumatic incidents.
Legal implications for personal injury claims
This trend raises critical questions for personal injury practitioners:
- Duty of care: As e-bike usage grows, so does the responsibility of manufacturers, rental companies, and even local authorities to ensure safety standards are met.
- Regulatory gaps: Currently, anyone aged 14 or over can legally ride an e-bike, with minimal oversight. There are calls for tighter regulation—including speed caps and licensing.
- Third-party claims: Victims hit by e-bike riders may face challenges in identifying the rider or securing compensation, especially in cases involving rental bikes.
What needs to happen
- Stricter safety standards: Rental schemes and private e-bike owners must be held to higher safety and maintenance standards.
- Public awareness campaigns: Riders need education on safe usage, especially in urban areas with heavy foot traffic.
- Legal reform: Clearer legislation around e-bike usage, insurance requirements, and accident reporting would help.
Final thoughts
Despite the police across the country trying to take e-bikes and e-scooters off the streets, they are here to stay. Members of the public must be prepared by staying vigilant, trying to watch out for these on the pavements and roads. Questions should be raised as to whether it is appropriate for children to use e-bikes.
If you or someone you know has been injured in an e-bike incident, our team is ready to help you understand your rights and explore your options.
How can we help?
Holly-Louise Batey is a Paralegal in our Personal Injury team, which is ranked in Tier One by the independently research publication, The Legal 500.
If you have any questions in relation to the topics discussed in this article, please contact Holly or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester, or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online form.
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