In the last few years, Long Island has seen a surge in e-bikes and other micromobility devices. Commuters looking to avoid traffic jams and high vehicle maintenance costs may opt to ride e-bikes or e-scooters. Some delivery professionals may also use micromobility devices to navigate Long Island.
E-bikes and other micromobility devices are cost-effective, efficient and less likely to contribute to traffic congestion than larger, enclosed vehicles. They do not impose the same licensing and insurance obligations on individuals as larger vehicles do.
Unfortunately, their rising popularity has also triggered a noticeable increase in collisions on Long Island. Understanding New York’s e-bike regulations and liability in the event of a crash can help people protect themselves and hold the right people accountable for injuries and other losses.
What are the e-bike rules in Long Island?
E-bike riders must follow traffic laws. Riders should use bike lanes whenever possible. If there is no designated bike lane, they should stay as far right as possible on the road. Current laws prohibit riding e-bikes on sidewalks. Additionally, the law does not allow those under the age of 16 to operate e-bikes on public roads. Riders who are 16 and 17 are subject to helmet requirements.
What types of crashes are common?
Two types of e-bike collisions have become relatively commonplace in Long Island. Frequently, e-bike riders may end up struck by larger vehicles, as drivers may not watch for them in traffic.
Liability for a collision between an e-bike rider and a larger vehicle may depend on the circumstances of the crash. While the driver of the larger vehicle is often at fault, violations of traffic statutes and unsafe habits, such as swerving around vehicles on busy roads, could raise questions about the e-bike rider’s contribution to the incident.
When e-bike riders choose to ride on sidewalks, they may potentially knock down and injure pedestrians. In those scenarios, the e-bike rider is typically liable for injuring a pedestrian.
Reviewing the circumstances of a car-e-bike collision or a pedestrian knock-down incident with a skilled legal team can help those hurt due to the use of micromobility devices on Long Island roads cover their expenses. An attorney may be able to help an injured pedestrian or e-bike rider assess insurance coverage and explore other possible options for compensation after a crash.