What You Need to Know About Riding an E-bike in Washington
Electric bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years, largely due to the growing number of bike share services and citywide electric bike rentals. However, this growing trend has led to a significant rise in the number of serious electric bike accidents. This article provides the latest E-bike accident statistics, an overview of the different classifications of electric bikes, and where you can and cannot ride E-bikes in Washington.
If you were injured in an E-bike accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Discuss the details of your case with a qualified attorney to determine whether you have a valid claim. Call (206) 429-5227 today to speak with an E-bike accident attorney in the greater Tacoma area for FREE.
The Increasing Popularity of E-bikes in Tacoma, Washington
While electric bikes provide riders with a fast, convenient, and healthy way to get around, their speed, combined with the lack of protection they provide, puts riders at an increased risk of sustaining serious, sometimes fatal, injuries. And with the drastic increase in the popularity of E-bikes, the number of electric bike accidents is expected to grow significantly.
The Latest E-Bike Accident Statistics
The following are some alarming statistics on electric bike accidents and injuries.
- 46% (nearly half) of electric bike injuries that took place from 2017 to 2022 occurred in 2022 alone.
- Of those injured on electric bikes between 2017 and 2022, 36% were 14 years old or younger.
- Since 2017, the number of electric bicycle crashes has risen an average of 23% annually.
- The most common E-bike injuries include traumatic brain injuries, broken or fractured bones, and neck and back injuries.
Classes of Electric Bikes
Washington places E-bikes in three categories based on the rider’s ability to pedal and how fast the motor-driven bike can travel. While you cannot typically determine an electric bike’s class just by looking at it, each class does have significantly different capabilities and limitations. The following is a breakdown of the three electric bike classifications:
Class 1
A rider must pedal a Class 1 E-bike for its motor to kick in. These bikes don’t power the bike’s forward motion entirely. It simply assists the rider. The maximum speed for a Class 1 electric bike is 20 mph, and riders do not need a driver’s license to ride one.
Class 2
Class 2 E-bikes are equipped with a motor that is controlled by a throttle. Riders do not need to pedal a class 2 electric bike for the motor to provide power. They simply need to press the throttle. Class 1 E-bikes and class 2 bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph, and riders do not need a driver’s license to operate E-bikes in this class.
Class 3
The fastest of all three classifications, class 3 E-bikes have a maximum speed of 28 mph. While they do not require a driver’s license or license plate, riders must be 17 or older and wear a helmet while riding. Class 3 electric bikes allow riders to pedal or use a throttle for the motor to provide power.
Where Can You Ride an E-Bike in Washington?
Washington’s E-bike laws are similar to the state’s non-motorized bicycle laws. Riding Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles on most bike paths on state and locally-owned lands is generally allowed.
The rules governing Class 3 E-bikes are a bit more complicated. Class 3 electric bikes are typically not allowed on shared pathways or sidewalks in Washington, with some areas within the state restricting Class 3 electric bicycles entirely.
E-bikes cannot be taken on a single track (any trail designed for a single mountain bike) if the area does not permit vehicles such as scooters or cars.
Are E-bikes Allowed on Bike Trails and Public Land in Washington?
On Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) land, the use of Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes is typically permitted in areas where non-motorized bicycles are allowed. However, Class 3 E-bikes are only allowed on motor trails.
Several national parks within the state of Washington have recently begun to allow Class 1 and Class 3 E-bikes on their bike trails. However, they are still generally not allowed on public lands run by the U.S. Forest Service.
Contact Ranz Injury Law Today
While electric bikes offer riders a fun and convenient way to travel, they do not come without significant risk. Riding electric bikes can lead to serious injuries, so it is important to take extra precautions, especially when near motor vehicles or in or near intersections. If you were injured in an E-bike accident, contact Ranz Injury Law. Our Tacoma personal injury lawyers will look into the circumstances of your accident and determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. Contact us online or call (206) 429-5227 today to schedule a free, no-obligation case review.
