E-Bike Accidents In Pinellas County: How To Protect Yourself On The Road

Bicycling is a fun hobby and inexpensive form of transportation. E-bikes broaden the possibilities, allowing riders of all ages to go farther and faster. Unfortunately, this creates serious risks. E-bike accidents in Pinellas County are increasingly common and can cause potentially devastating personal injuries. Our Seminole bicycle accident attorney explains more about the risks and how to protect yourself on the road.

E-Bikes Pose Hazards In Florida Communities 

However, under the Florida Statutes, e-bikes are regulated in the same manner as regular, non-motorized bicycles. There are no license or insurance requirements and no restrictions regarding the age of the rider or where e-bikes can be used.

Ease of operations and the opportunity to go further and faster make e-bikes popular among residents of all ages. However, with more riders on the road, the risk of e-bike accidents in Pinellas County has increased.

In response to e-bike deaths in communities throughout the state, lawmakers proposed House Bill 1049. It covered a variety of transportation issues, including provisions that would allow local governments to institute their own e-bike restrictions. Unfortunately, it passed in the House in spring 2024 but is expected to stall in the Senate.

While public officials focus on the age of riders and where e-bikes are used, one of the biggest safety issues is dangerous behavior by other drivers on the road. Common types of reckless driving that increase e-bike accident risks in Pinellas County include:

• Speeding;
• Tailgating;
• Cutting e-bikes off in traffic;
• Failing to yield;
• Driving distracted or under the influence and swerving into bike lanes.

Protecting Yourself Against E-Bike Accidents In Pinellas County

Everyone from older adults to preteen children uses e-bikes at local beaches and to travel on roads throughout Pinellas County. Unfortunately, the Consumer Public Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that as the number of riders increases, so does the risk of e-bike accidents, which can cause potentially devastating injuries.

To protect yourself on an e-bike, it is important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions. These include:

• Wear a helmet, which can prevent potentially fatal head injuries;
• When riding, wear the appropriate shoes, long pants, and other protective clothing;
• Consider e-bike gloves, which are padded and help in gripping the handlebars;
• Use light, bright colors to increase visibility;
• Follow local traffic laws;
• Signal when making turns or coming to stops;
• At intersections, never assume a motorist sees you or will yield.

If you are involved in an e-bike accident in Pinellas County, take steps to protect yourself and your rights in filing a claim. Notify the police so they can file an accident report, get contact information for anyone involved, and seek medical care immediately.

Contact Our Pinellas County Bicycle Accident Attorney Today 

E-bike accidents in Pinellas County can cause devastating injuries. At The Reep Law Firm, we provide the experienced legal representation you need to file a claim. To get the compensation you are entitled to, call or contact our Seminole bicycle accident attorney and request a consultation today.

Sources:

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

legiscan.com/FL/supplement/H1049/id/331459

cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2024/E-Scooter-and-E-Bike-Injuries-Soar-2022-Injuries-Increased-Nearly-21