E-Bike Safety

by Stephen Peifer

Did You Know?

E-bikes can reach speeds of 20–28 mph and are involved in a growing number of serious injuries and fires when not used or charged safely. Many crashes involve collisions with vehicles or falls at higher speeds, and a significant number of fires are linked to damaged or improperly charged lithium-ion batteries.[1],[2]

STAY INFORMED

  • E-bikes handle differently than regular bicycles. Extra weight and assisted acceleration mean longer stopping distances and more force in a crash.[1]
  • Most serious e-bike injuries involve head trauma and fractures. Wearing a properly fitted helmet greatly reduces the risk of severe head injury in a crash.[1],[3]
  • Lithium-ion batteries can overheat and catch fire if damaged, modified, or charged incorrectly. Fires can spread rapidly and be difficult to extinguish once thermal runaway begins.[2],[4]
  • Many e-bike incidents occur in traffic. Drivers may misjudge e-bike speed, and riders may weave, ride against traffic, or ignore signals, increasing collision risk.[1]

HELPFUL TIPS

1. Protect Your Head and Body

  • Always wear a certified bike helmet when riding an e-bike, even for short trips.[3]
  • Consider additional protection such as gloves, closed-toe shoes, and high-visibility clothing or reflective gear to improve visibility to drivers.

2. Ride Defensively in Traffic

  • Obey all traffic laws, signals, and lane markings. Ride in the same direction as traffic, not against it.[1]
  • Use bike lanes where available, but slow down around pedestrians and be prepared for sudden door openings or vehicles turning across your path.
  • Make yourself visible: use front and rear lights at dawn, dusk, and night, and use hand signals so others can predict your movements.

3. Understand Your E-Bike’s Limits

  • Before riding in busy areas, practice starting, stopping, and turning in a safe, low-traffic space to get used to the acceleration and braking.
  • Know your e-bike’s class and top speed (Class 1, 2, or 3) and follow any local rules for bike paths, multi-use trails, and roads.

4. Charge Batteries Safely

  • Use only the charger and battery that came with your e-bike or are approved by the manufacturer. Avoid aftermarket or “DIY” battery packs and chargers.[2],[4]
  • Charge on a hard, non-flammable surface away from beds, sofas, and combustible materials. Never charge in narrow escape routes like stairwells or doorways.
  • Do not leave e-bikes or batteries charging unattended or overnight. Unplug when fully charged and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging times.[4]

5. Inspect and Maintain Regularly

  • Check your brakes, tires, and lights before e

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