E-bikes, also called electric bicycles, are becoming extremely popular. E-bikes have a pedal assist system that is run by battery. This makes riding a bike easier for people of all ages. E-bikes give you the ability to ride further, faster, and in more strenuous conditions such as hills. E-bikes are considered electric-assisted bicycles. E-bikes are great for getting around town, for going to and from work or school, or for enjoyment.
E-Bike Classifications
There are three classifications of e-bikes in North Carolina. The classifications are based on size, features, and capabilities and follow the Federal classifications.
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum speed of up to 20 mph
- Class 2: Pedal-assist only, with speed of up to 20 mph and with throttle option
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only with speed up to 28 mph.
In order to be classified as an e-bike, the horsepower of the motor cannot exceed 750 Watts. If a vehicle has an engine of more than 1 horsepower or 750 watts, it is considered a motorized vehicle, such as a motorcycle, moped, or scooter.
E-Bike Rules and Regulations
E-bikes are considered a type of bicycle. As such, drivers must follow the rules and laws set forth for bicycles. North Carolina does not require a license to operate an e-bike. You do not have to register an e-bike with the state, and an e-bike does not require insurance. The minimum age for riding an e-bike is 16. A helmet is not required by law but is recommended. E-bikes must follow the same rules of the road as bicycles.
Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed to ride on public roads except for freeways (fully controlled access highways). Bicyclists must follow all the same traffic laws as vehicles. They must obey stop lights and signs and must signal turns. Bikes must ride on the right side of the lane and cannot share lanes. When riding at night, a bicycle must have front and rear lights. You should check with your local jurisdiction for any specific laws that pertain to bicycles.
How Dangerous are E-Bikes?
E-bikes and bicycles are generally safe as long as you are careful. As with bicycles, vehicle drivers sometimes fail to see e-bikes on the roadway. It is important to ride as safely as possible to prevent accidents. It is best to wear proper footwear to ensure control over the e-bike. Wearing a helmet can protect you against serious injuries or death in some situations. When riding at night, wear reflective clothing and be sure that your light can be seen from a distance. Do not race your e-bike or engage in reckless behaviors, such as riding while impaired.
If you are hurt in an accident, you may be entitled to compensation from the negligent driver. Call the police after an accident and seek medical attention immediately. Remember that your injuries may not always seem serious at first, but may worsen over time. Gather information from the driver of the vehicle and witnesses, if possible. Contact our legal team at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, at (704) 370-2828 to request a free initial consultation to discuss the details of your injuries.
The skilled personal injury attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC are dedicated to maximizing the financial recovery and obtaining justice for every personal injury client injured by another party’s negligence. The issues our personal injury clients may be facing include, but are not limited to, slip and fall injuries, wrongful death, product liability, catastrophic injuries, dog bite claims, car and truck accident injuries, motorcycle injuries, traumatic brain injury (TBI), nursing home negligence, spinal cord injury, boating accidents, and defective medical device injury. Our personal injury attorneys understand the devastating impact such an injury can have on a person’s life, and that the effects so often go beyond physical pain and suffering. The personal injury attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC are dedicated to helping clients determine the strength of their claims, and to aggressively pursuing the means necessary to achieve the best possible end result for each client’s particular situation.
Source:
https://www.ncdot.gov/divisions/integrated-mobility/safety/Pages/bike-ped-laws.aspx
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