Chicago Accident Lawyer Blog
As e-bikes gain popularity in Chicago, questions surrounding their safety in bike lanes alongside traditional bicycles arise. As personal injury attorneys in Chicago, we have seen accidents involving e-bikes increase, particularly when they share bike lanes with traditional bicycles. Here we will take a closer look at Illinois’ e-bike law and explore the safety concerns that come with e-bike usage in bike lanes, on bicycle paths, and on sidewalks.
E-bikes, or electric bicycles, are equipped with electric motors that assist the rider in pedaling. In an effort to regulate e-bikes and ensure safety for all cyclists, Illinois has introduced a law amending the Illinois Vehicle Code. The law classifies e-bikes into three categories based on their speed and motor assistance capabilities:
- Class 1 low-speed electric bicycle: Motor assistance only when the rider is pedaling, ceasing assistance at 20 mph.