As electric bikes have become an increasingly common sight on Illinois roads, there has been a corresponding rise in e-bike crashes. These incidents can cause severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. It is important to recognize that riders and other road users both have a role to play in reducing these electric bike accidents.
The Rise in E-Bike Crashes: Illinois Trends and Statistics
With the help of new medical codes specific to e-bike crashes and injuries, a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago and Johns Hopkins provided the following statistics on e-bike crashes and injuries:
- Between 2021 and 2023, 34,073 patients received treatment in Illinois emergency departments for injuries resulting from electric bike crashes.
- Collisions with motor vehicles were the primary cause of 45.4 percent of e-bike injuries.
- Compared to cyclists, e-bike and e-scooter users have a significantly higher likelihood of being admitted to the intensive care unit and needing treatment for traumatic brain injuries.
Why E-Bike Crashes Are Increasing
Several factors may contribute to the increase in e-bike accidents. For starters, electric bicycles can travel at higher speeds than conventional bicycles, giving riders less time to react to traffic hazards. Their sudden growth in popularity also means more e-bikes share Illinois roads with cars, pedestrians, and cyclists who are unaccustomed to their presence. In some cases, motor vehicle drivers may have difficulty judging an e-bike’s speed. At the same time, inexperienced riders may be unfamiliar with the handling and braking of faster, heavier e-bikes in traffic.
How Riders Can Help Prevent E-Bike Crashes
E-bike riders can most effectively reduce the risk of a crash by staying alert and following Illinois traffic laws. Because electric bicycles can reach higher speeds than traditional bikes, riders should also give themselves enough time and space to react to changing road conditions. Some other tips to keep in mind include:
- Wear a properly fitted helmet.
- Obey traffic signals and posted signs.
- Use bike lanes and bike paths when available.
- Make yourself visible with lights or reflective gear.
- Avoid distractions while riding.
What to Do After an E-Bike Crash
If you are involved in an e-bike collision, there are steps you can take immediately to protect your safety and legal rights. Seek medical treatment right away, and follow the doctor’s recommendations to promote your recovery. If possible, take pictures and videos of the crash scene and exchange contact information with the other involved parties and any eyewitnesses. Be careful about what you say to others, including the police and any insurance representatives – inadvertently accepting blame or apologizing could jeopardize your right to financial recovery.
When Should You Speak With an E-Bike Crash Lawyer?
Another important step after an e-bike crash is to contact an Illinois e-bike collision attorney. A skilled lawyer can help you take steps to pursue compensation and justice after a crash. Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. has recovered more than $3.5 billion for injured people in Illinois. Let us put our resources to work for you. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.
