E-bikes have quickly become a popular and eco-friendly way to get around Chicago. With rideshare services like Divvy, Lime, and Bird, residents and tourists alike are embracing these electric options. However, as the number of e-bikes on the road increases, so does the risk of serious accidents.
High Speeds, Higher Risks
Unlike traditional bikes, e-bikes can reach speeds of 20–28 mph. In the hands of inexperienced riders or amidst distracted drivers and crowded city streets, these high-speed devices pose unique safety concerns.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, e-bike injuries in the U.S. have tripled in the past five years, with over 53,000 ER visits in 2022 alone. Chicago-area hospitals have seen a similar uptick, particularly during warmer months. In this article, we outline what riders and pedestrians need to know to protect their rights in case of an injury.
Common Causes of E-Bike Accidents in Chicago
E-bike accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but many share common contributing factors, which include:
Rider Error and Inexperience
Many e-bike riders are first-timers unfamiliar with how fast or heavy these vehicles are. Common risky behaviors include:
- Riding on sidewalks
- Ignoring traffic signals
- Weaving between cars or pedestrians
These actions dramatically increase the risk of a crash, especially in dense urban areas like Chicago.
Mechanical or Battery Failures
E-bikes contain sensitive electronics and lithium-ion batteries. When parts fail, the results can be dangerous:
- Brake failures
- Stuck throttles
- Battery fires or shocks
These failures may form the basis of a product liability claim.
Poorly Maintained Rental Bikes
Rental e-bikes see heavy use and are not always inspected between rides. This creates issues such as:
- Worn-out brakes
- Loose handlebars
- Under-inflated tires
These issues can make them extremely unsafe. Additionally, few rental companies provide helmets, which further increases the risk of injury.
Collisions with Vehicles or Pedestrians
Drivers often don’t anticipate the speed of e-bikes or check bike lanes before turning.
On the contrary, pedestrians are also increasingly hit by e-bike riders who ride on sidewalks or fail to yield.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Hazards such as potholes, poor signage, or unmarked bike lanes can easily cause crashes as well. In some cases, the City of Chicago or other public entities may be liable, but special rules apply under the Illinois Tort Immunity Act.
Common Injuries Often Seen in E-Bike Accidents
Due to their speed and weight, e-bikes often cause more severe injuries than traditional bicycles. Common examples include:
1. Head and Brain Injuries
Without a helmet, even a minor fall can result in:
- Concussions
- Skull fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
TBIs can cause permanent damage and require long-term care.
2. Spinal Injuries and Broken Bones
E-bike riders are often thrown from their bikes, which can lead to:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal cord trauma
- Broken wrists, ribs, or collarbones
These injuries can result in chronic pain, surgery, and extensive time away from work.
3. Cuts, Lacerations, and Soft Tissue Damage
Severe road rash, muscle tears, and dislocations are common injuries in an e-bike accident, particularly when riders fall at high speeds or collide with the pavement.
4. Burns and Electric Shock
Battery malfunctions can be extremely dangerous and cause:
- Severe burns
- Chemical exposure
- Electric shocks
These injuries may require hospitalization and even lead to the need for plastic surgery.
5. Fatal Accidents and Wrongful Death
Unfortunately, high-speed e-bike crashes can be fatal, especially when involving other vehicles, bridge falls, or fires. In these cases, families may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to pursue justice and compensation.
Determining Liability: Who Is Responsible?
E-bike injury cases are often complex. Multiple parties may share legal responsibility, depending on the circumstances. These can include:
- Negligent Motorists — Drivers who are distracted, speeding, or fail to yield may be fully or partially liable if they strike an e-bike rider or pedestrian. “Dooring” (opening a car door into a cyclist) is another common scenario.
- E-Bike Riders (When Pedestrians Are Injured) — When riders use sidewalks, ignore traffic laws, or ride aggressively, pedestrians may be entitled to compensation. Comparative negligence rules may apply if both parties share fault.
- Rental Companies — Companies such as Divvy or Lime may be liable if:
- They fail to maintain the bikes sufficiently
- Ignore safety complaints or known defects
- Do not encourage or provide helmets
* Even with signed waivers, courts may hold companies accountable for gross negligence.
- Manufacturers — If a crash is caused by defective parts, such as brakes, throttles, or batteries, the bike manufacturer or parts supplier may be liable under product liability law.
- Municipalities or Public Agencies — If poor infrastructure caused the crash (e.g., a hidden pothole or unsafe bike lane design), a government entity may be held responsible. However, strict notice deadlines and limitations apply under the Illinois Tort Immunity Act.
What to Do After an E-Bike Accident in Chicago
Taking the right steps after an accident is crucial for your health and your legal case. Here are a few important things you can do straight away:
- Get Medical Help Immediately — Even if you feel fine, internal injuries or TBIs can surface much later. Medical records also serve as essential evidence in a claim.
- Document the Scene — Take photos of the bike (rental ID if applicable); road conditions, signage, injuries, and the presence or absence of helmets. This evidence helps establish fault and supports your claim.
- Get Witness and Police Information — Ask witnesses for their contact details. If police are present, get the report number or the officer’s name and badge number.
- Preserve the E-Bike — Don’t return a rental before thoroughly documenting it. If you own the bike, store it securely and don’t make repairs, it may serve as critical evidence.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney — Insurance companies and rental providers may try to downplay your injuries or shift blame. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue full compensation.
How Pullano & Siporin Can Help You Recover
At Pullano & Siporin, we bring decades of trial experience and a fierce commitment to our clients. E-bike injury cases often involve multiple parties, technical details, and aggressive insurance companies. Here’s how we can help guide you through every step and fight for the compensation you deserve:
Identifying All Liable Parties
We begin by thoroughly investigating your case to determine who is responsible, whether it’s a negligent driver, a reckless e-bike rider, a rental company, a defective product manufacturer, or even a city agency. Our goal is to hold every liable party accountable.
Preserving and Analyzing Critical Evidence
Strong claims rely on strong evidence. We act quickly to secure key records such as rental logs, police reports, maintenance histories, medical documentation, and surveillance footage. We also work with experts to examine the e-bike for any contributing defects.
Calculating the Full Value of Your Claim
We go beyond current medical bills to assess the full impact of your injuries, including future treatment, lost income, reduced earning potential, and emotional distress. For serious injuries, we ensure long-term care needs are fully factored in.
Negotiating and Litigating Relentlessly
Our skilled trial attorneys are known for preparing every case for trial, which gives us an edge in negotiations. Whether settling or litigating, we fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve, without backing down.
Supporting Families in Wrongful Death Claims
If you’ve lost a loved one in an e-bike accident, we provide compassionate support and strong legal advocacy. While nothing can undo the loss, we work to secure justice and financial stability for your family.
Injured in an E-Bike Accident?
Whether you were riding an e-bike or struck by one, you may be entitled to compensation. At Pullano & Siporin, we’re ready to listen, investigate, and fight for justice on your behalf.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you pursue the compensation and justice you deserve.
