Electric bicycles (e-bikes) have become increasingly common throughout California. They offer many people an affordable, efficient option for travel. At the same time, e-bikes introduce unique legal issues in crashes that differ in some respects from standard bicycle accident claims.

What California Law Says About E-Bikes

• An e-bike is defined under California law as a bicycle that has fully operable pedals and an electric motor not exceeding 750 watts. If either of those limits is exceeded or if the bike has no pedals it may be treated differently under the law.
• There are three classes of e-bikes. Class 1 e-bikes offer motor assistance only while pedaling up to about 20 mph. Class 2 bikes can propel themselves up to 20 mph. Class 3 e-bikes assist while pedaling and can reach about 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes have additional requirements such as a speedometer and age restrictions (riders must be 16 or older).
• In general the same bike and traffic laws apply to e-bikes as regular bicycles except where the law specifically says otherwise.

How E-Bike Accidents Can Be Legally Different

• Because e-bikes can travel at higher speeds (especially Class 3) there is increased potential for more severe injuries or property damage. The higher speed may affect both how accidents occur and how liability is determined.
• Some e-bikes may not be covered under homeowner liability insurance if the claim is treated as a motor vehicle accident rather than a bicycle accident. That can create uncertainty about what insurance applies.
• Legal ambiguity exists about whether some e-bikes might fall under more restrictive rules (sometimes similar to motorcycles) depending on features, speed, or local regulations.

What Riders Should Do to Protect Themselves

• Obey traffic laws for bicycles: ride in bike lanes where required follow signal lights wear helmets and obey local e-bike rules.
• Know which class of e-bike you have and be aware of any age, speed or equipment restrictions that apply.
• Document everything if there is an accident: photos of the crash scene, damage, injuries, lighting, speed, conditions, witness statements.
• Check your insurance policies and speak with your provider to make sure you understand what is covered in an e-bike crash.

How Hillstone Law Can Assist

If you are involved in an e-bike collision we can help explain how California law may apply to your specific case assess liability help gather evidence and determine which insurance covers your losses negotiate with insurance companies and pursue full fair compensation.