E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular for Californians across the state – and for obvious reasons. Not only do these vehicles allow us to reduce our carbon footprints, but they are also more affordable. Unlike normal bicycles, e-bikes provide reliable power, top speed, and acceleration – making them much more reliable daily vehicles. This added power also makes them viable for a wider range of the population – including seniors and those who are physically disabled. But as more people adopt e-bikes in California, accidents involving these vehicles inevitably rise. So, what can you do if you were injured in a California e-bike crash?
E-Bike Incidents Are Becoming All Too Common In California
Over the years, e-bike accidents have become increasingly common in California as more people adopt these vehicles. As they have grown in popularity, more manufacturers have joined the market. Many of these manufacturers have been sued for selling defective products – including those with batteries that combust or explode while charging. Other e-bike manufacturers have been sued for various issues, such as deflating tires or other defects.
On December 14, 2022, it was reported that a woman in San Diego had been hospitalized after falling from her e-bike. While the exact circumstances of the crash are not clear, the authorities state that she collided with a discarded shopping cart. The crash was so intense that she went over her handlebars before suffering a head injury. She was then placed on life support. Could this accident have been caused by a manufacturing or design defect? Perhaps.
It is also worth noting that the woman was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. If she does decide to sue a negligent party, could this prevent her from receiving a settlement? California makes helmet use mandatory, which means that you could face a fine if you are caught without a helmet while riding your e-bike. But that does not necessarily mean that you will lose the ability to receive compensation for your injuries – just that your compensation may be lower due to California’s comparative negligence laws.
On December 1, it was reported that a child had suffered “major head trauma” in Menifee after he was struck by a vehicle while riding his e-bike. Authorities state that he veered into traffic without yielding to signals – indicating that the vehicles involved were not at fault. Fortunately, the boy survived – but with serious injuries that required medical treatment. Again, the victim was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
Sometimes, e-bike riders find themselves at risk of unexpected dangers. In late November, it was reported that an e-bike rider was assaulted by a man with a machete in Rancho Cordova. After being struck in the head with the weapon, the e-bike rider managed to travel a short distance before collapsing. Unfortunately, the victim did not survive this attack. The defendant was eventually tracked down and arrested.
Knowing When You Can Sue
If you have been injured in an e-bike accident, the only way to know whether you can sue is to get in touch with a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney in Fresno. Keep in mind that California is a no-fault state, which means that you must hold another party liable for your injuries. Even if you cannot think of anyone you could possibly hold liable, your lawyer may provide you with legal options that you have not previously considered. For example, you could sue the government for an accident caused by badly-maintained roads or confusing signage.
Where Can I Find A Qualified Personal Injury Attorney In Fresno?
If you have been searching for a reliable Fresno personal injury attorney, look no further than the Nunes Law. Over the years, we have helped many injured plaintiffs in the Golden State. We know how common e-bikes have become in California, and we are ready to guide you toward a positive outcome in the most efficient way possible. Whether you are trying to sue a manufacturer for a defective battery or a drunk driver who ran you off the road, we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective action plan.