How to ride an electric bike safely

Modern e-bikes came on the market in the 1990s and have exploded in popularity in recent years. E-bikes provide an extra boost of power, enabling riders to climb hills easily and travel faster and farther with less effort compared to traditional, non-electric bikes. 

But while e-bikes provide many advantages for both commuting and recreational riding, they also bring new risks. Because e-bikes weigh more and can often travel faster than non-electric bikes, they can be harder to control and can cause more severe injuries. The lithium batteries that power e-bike motors also pose fire risks.

Injuries from e-bike accidents can be similar but more severe than accidents involving non-electric bikes. Types of injuries from e-bike accidents include:

• Lacerations, scrapes, and bruises
• Broken bones 
• Internal injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Head and neck injuries¹

There is also a greater risk of e-bike collisions involving—and injuring—pedestrians.²

If you’re considering an e-bike purchase or already own an e-bike, here are some key safety tips to follow: 

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet when riding an e-bike.
• Make sure you and your bike are visible by using bike lights and wearing reflective clothing.
• Maintain your e-bike—and especially make sure your brakes work and tires are properly inflated.
• Follow traffic laws, including yielding the right of way.
• Always ride with the flow of traffic—and never ride on sidewalks.
• Don’t text or use your mobile phone while riding.
• Don’t ride while intoxicated.

Keep in mind that traffic and e-bike laws vary by jurisdiction. Kids under 16 are not permitted to ride certain classes of e-bikes in some states.

It’s a good idea to know your e-bike well before hitting the open road. Read your e-bike’s manual and practice getting on and off your e-bike as well. Young riders and adults new to e-bikes—or biking in general—may benefit by taking a bike safety class. Bike safety programs are often offered by schools and community organizations. 

Properly charging, maintaining, and storing your e-bike’s lithium battery will help keep your e-bike operable and safe. While rare, e-bike battery fires can be damaging, dangerous, and even deadly. Follow these tips to help prevent fires and maintain your e-bike’s battery:

• Purchase only e-bikes and batteries that have been safety certified.
• Charge your e-bike battery in a dry, clean, safe area, following the instructions in you e-bike’s manual.
• Only use the charger that comes with your battery.
• Plug your charger directly into a wall outlet; don’t use extension cords or power strips.
• Don’t leave your charging e-bike unattended or charge overnight.