E-Bike Accidents In Naples: How To Reduce Injury Risks

Riding a bike is fun, but not something everyone is capable of. E-bikes make cycling more accessible and allow greater freedom in terms of how far and where you can travel. Unfortunately, they can also pose greater risks.

E-bike accidents in Naples are increasingly common and can result in potentially life-threatening injuries. Our Naples bicycle accident lawyer helps victims and their families get compensation. Find out more about how these accidents happen and ways to reduce the risks.

Common Causes Of E-Bike Accidents In Naples

E-bikes have been around since 1998 but have surged in popularity in recent years. They are classified the same as bicycles under Florida Statutes and riders are subject to the same rights and restrictions. However, while e-bikes generally require pedaling, they rely on lithium-ion batteries and can travel at considerably faster speeds.

Legally, an e-bike can go up to 28 miles per hour. This increased rate of speed not only increases the risks of e-bike accidents in Naples but also the potential for severe, life-threatening personal injuries. In many cases, reckless driving on the part of other motorists is to blame. Among the most common causes include:

• Speeding and going too fast for traffic conditions;
• Tailgating e-bikes, cutting them off when passing, and other aggressive driving behaviors;
• Failure to yield at crosswalks and intersections;
• Driving distracted or while under the influence, which can cause drivers to swerve into the path of e-bikes in local bicycle lanes. 

Reducing The Risk Of E-Bike Accidents In Naples

E-bike riders in Naples need to take steps to protect their safety before they ever get on the road. Consumer Reports warns that e-bike batteries need to be stored in a cool, shaded location when not in use otherwise, serious fire injuries could happen as a result.

You should also provide routine maintenance of your e-bike and do an inspection before each trip. Once you are on the road, take these steps to reduce personal injury risks:

• Wear a helmet, long pants, gloves, and other protective gear;
• Be a responsible cyclist and follow all traffic rules and regulations;
• Use caution when choosing streets to ride on and use bike lanes when available;
• Give other road users plenty of space;
• Use extra caution at local intersections;
• Avoid riding your e-bike while under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or certain medications;
• Avoid using earphones or other distractions that could cause you to miss warning signs of a crash.

Injured In An E-Bike Accident? Request A Consultation With Our Naples Bicycle Accident Lawyer

E-bike injuries can result from battery fires or collisions involving motorists. If you or someone you love is hurt, you have the right to seek compensation.

Report the accident immediately to the police, get contact information for everyone involved,  seek medical care, and speak with Cardinal Law, P.A. before making any statements. For caring, comprehensive legal help in filing a claim, request a consultation with our Naples bicycle accident lawyer today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.20655.html

consumerreports.org/health/electric-bikes/how-to-prevent-e-bike-fires-a2493889574/