E-bikes are an increasingly popular mode of transportation for both fun and daily needs across Connecticut. Especially during the warmer seasons, people may forgo traditional enclosed vehicles for far more efficient e-bike transportation.
Unfortunately, e-bike riders are at risk of potentially devastating crashes caused by inattentive drivers. While e-bikes are heavier and faster than traditional bicycles, they are still far smaller than four-wheeled vehicles and offer minimal physical protection in the event of a collision. E-bike riders generally need to be fastidious about monitoring traffic conditions for their own safety.
What are some of the leading causes of e-bike collisions?
1. Negligent surveillance
E-bikes generally have the right to operate on most roads, provided that they stay in bike lanes when they are available or as far right as possible. Unfortunately, drivers may not watch for e-bikes or other bicycles, resulting in preventable collisions. Especially when approaching an intersection, e-bike riders may need to embrace defensive cycling techniques, such as yielding the right of way to drivers who may not notice their presence.
2. Right-turn collisions
Motorists generally have the right to make a right turn at an intersection after coming to a complete stop, even if there is a red traffic light. Frequently, drivers preparing to turn right check to the left for oncoming traffic. They may fail to look to the right, where an e-bike rider on the sidewalk may be about to cross the road. The crashes that result from these scenarios can be devastating.
3. Dooring incidents
People in motor vehicles frequently fail to check for cyclists and e-bike riders after stopping their vehicles. If a driver or vehicle occupant opens a car door into oncoming traffic, a rider on an e-bike may not be able to stop without hitting the open door. They can end up seriously injured due to blunt-force trauma or even thrown into traffic, which could cause even worse injuries if another driver strikes them.
E-bike riders may have the right to hold drivers accountable when motorists are at fault for crashes that cause serious injuries and property damage losses. Consulting with a Connecticut bicycle collision attorney can help e-bike riders review the insurance coverage available and other potential options for financial compensation.