Electric bikes, often referred to as e-bikes, are quickly becoming a popular way to get around Bloomington. They’re eco-friendly, fast, and practical—but like any vehicle on the road, they come with risks. Accidents involving e-bikes are on the rise, and when they happen, the question of who is legally responsible becomes crucial.
This blog covers the common causes of e-bike crashes, who may be held accountable, and what injured individuals in Bloomington need to know.
Common Causes of E-Bike Crashes
An e-bike offers greater speed and range than traditional bicycles, but that also means it presents more opportunities for collisions. Some common scenarios that lead to injuries include:
- Drivers who overlook the right-of-way or miscalculate an e-bike’s speed
- Dangerous road conditions like potholes or poorly marked bike lanes
- Sudden door openings from parked vehicles
- Malfunctioning brakes, batteries, or motors
- Rider inattention or failure to follow traffic laws
While every situation is different, one thing remains true—e-bike crashes can cause serious injuries like fractures, head trauma, or spinal damage.
Determining Liability After an E-Bike Crash
In Illinois, figuring out who holds responsibility comes down to the specific details of the incident. Liability often hinges on negligence—whether someone acted carelessly or failed to meet a reasonable duty of care. Here are the most common parties who may be responsible:
1. Negligent Drivers
If a motorist caused the collision by speeding, turning illegally, or being distracted, they may be held legally responsible for the damages.
2. E-Bike Riders
In some cases, the rider may share fault. For example, if the rider failed to obey traffic signals or was riding on the wrong side of the road, they may bear some or all of the blame.
3. Bike Manufacturers or Retailers
Issues such as brake malfunctions or battery fires may indicate a defect in the product. In such cases, responsibility might lie with the company that manufactured or sold the e-bike.
- Local Government or Maintenance Crews
If the crash was caused by poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or other municipal hazards, a government entity might be held accountable under specific legal conditions.
What You Should Do After an Electric Bike Crash
Your actions after an incident can shape the outcome of any legal claim. If you find yourself in an electric bike accident, here are some important steps to take right away:
- Get Medical Attention: Injuries aren’t always visible right away. A medical evaluation documents your condition and supports your case.
- Report the Accident: Whether it involves another vehicle or a road hazard, file a report with the proper authorities.
- Collect Evidence: Take photos, gather witness contact details, and note the scene.
- Don’t Admit Fault: Even a polite apology can be used against you—stick to the facts.
- Talk to an Attorney: Legal guidance helps protect your rights and build a stronger case.
How Compensation Works in Illinois
Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the electric bike accident, you can still recover damages—as long as you were less than 50% responsible. The compensation you’re entitled to could decrease based on how much fault is attributed to you.
Injury claims can help recover costs for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Ongoing care or therapy
A lawyer can review your case, collect supporting evidence, and handle negotiations with the insurance company for you.
Moving Forward with Legal Help
Accidents involving electric bikes are growing as more people turn to this form of transportation. If you were injured in an bike accident in Bloomington, it’s important to know what legal options are available to you. Liability can involve drivers, government entities, or even the e-bike manufacturer. It’s not always straightforward—but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At Onward Injury Law, we’re committed to guiding you through every stage of your recovery and legal journey. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and find out what your next steps should be.