E-bikes & E-scooters: Assessing Accident Risks
Over the past year, e-bikes and e-scooters have seen increased sales and use internationally. In Windsor specifically, e-bikes sales doubled during the pandemic. Many individuals needed to come up with alternative solutions to travel.
With the rapid gain in popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters, it’s come to attention that they also come with potentially serious injuries and lawsuits. For this reason, we wanted to make readers aware that they can count on Paccioco and Mellow for e-bike accident lawyer Windsor.
What are e-bikes and e-scooters?
E-bikes and e-scooters are electronically powered versions of standard equipment that use batteries to assist the user’s power. This battery-powered motor travels at speeds much faster than a regular bike or scooter. This additional speed leads to a higher risk of e-bike accidents Windsor.
What are the legal requirements to ride an e-bike or e-scooter in Ontario?
There are few legal requirements when it comes to owning and riding an e-bike or e-scooter in Ontario. The rider must wear a helmet, not exceed speed limits of 32 kilometres per hour, and be at least 16 years of age. A license and insurance are also not needed. Considering all of the above, e-bikes and e-scooters are considerably fast for beginners.
The fines for riding an e-bike without a helmet ranges from $60 to $500. Riders of e-bikes are considered cyclists and subject to the same laws and penalties under the Highway Traffic Act and any other applicable legislation.
Back in August of 2020, Bike Share Toronto began expanding by launching a pilot program for e-bikes. This pilot program made 300 e-bikes available for rent in the city, which can be great but in the wrong hands can cause serious safety risks on the road.
What are the risks of riding an e-bike or e-scooter?
The chances for serious injury, and death, are significantly higher than car drivers due to their combined use of pedestrian sidewalks and traditional bike lanes. Since e-bikes and e-scooters go much faster than conventional bikes and scooters, this elevates safety risks. With increased speeds, when there is injury, it’s commonly much more severe.
Falling and being hit by an e-bike are the most typical types of injuries caused by e-bikes and e-scooters. These injuries include:
- Abrasions, lacerations and contusions
- Fractures or broken bones
- Concussion or a more traumatic brain injury
- Dislocated shoulder, arm, knees, etc
- Punctured lungs and or internal bleeding
- Spinal cord damage or paralysis
With speeds of up to 32 kilometres per hour, it is usually considered that a certain amount of skill is required to operate but not with e-bikes. New riders do not even need to take an introductory training course before owning or riding an e-bike, which can be very concerning, especially regarding the injuries mentioned above.
Have you suffered an injury with an e-bike or e-scooter?
Suppose you’ve been in an e-bike or e-scooter and are injured. In that case, we urge you to contact Paciocco & Mellow, experienced e-scooter accident lawyers Windsor, as soon as possible to arrange a free initial consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers.
Why Choose Injury Lawyers Paciocco & Mellow?
Paciocco & Mellow have years of knowledge in representing personal injury cases, giving us an advantage with unique insights to handle all disputes. Our team works endlessly to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.