Are E-Bike Accidents Becoming More Common in Charlotte?

Electric bicycles, also known as e-bikes, have become a popular and convenient mode of transportation in Charlotte. They offer an affordable alternative to cars and public transportation, allowing riders to navigate through traffic quickly and enjoy the city’s growing network of bike lanes and greenways. However, as more e-bikes appear on North Carolina roads, accident rates have also increased. Understanding why these crashes are becoming more common can help riders and motorists stay safe and know what to do if they are involved in an e-bike accident.

The Rising Popularity of E-Bikes in Charlotte

Charlotte’s expanding urban development has made e-bikes an attractive option for residents and commuters. From college students and downtown workers to delivery drivers and recreational riders, people rely on e-bikes for short trips and daily travel. Companies offering rental and shared e-bikes have also contributed to the surge in ridership.

While this growth supports cleaner and more efficient transportation, it also introduces new risks. E-bikes travel faster than traditional bicycles, often reaching speeds of 20 to 28 miles per hour. Their increased speed, combined with a lack of dedicated infrastructure in many areas, has led to a higher incidence of collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, and other cyclists.

Why E-Bike Accidents Are Increasing

Several factors contribute to the rising number of e-bike crashes in Charlotte. One major issue is that drivers are still adjusting to sharing the road with electric bikes. Many motorists fail to recognize how quickly e-bikes can approach, misjudging their distance and speed.

Other contributing factors include:

• Distracted Driving: Motorists and riders who text, eat, or adjust devices while in motion are at greater risk of collision.
• Lack of Experience: New riders often underestimate how powerful an e-bike can be and may lose control or fail to stop in time.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Some Charlotte neighborhoods lack safe bike lanes or clear signage, forcing riders into traffic lanes.
• Poor Visibility: Because e-bikes are smaller and produce little noise, they can be difficult for drivers to notice, particularly in low light or poor weather conditions.

When these factors combine, even a minor mistake can lead to a serious crash resulting in broken bones, head injuries, or long-term physical limitations.

What To Do After an E-Bike Accident

If you are injured in an e-bike collision, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation. Seek medical attention right away, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Contact law enforcement so an official report can document the scene, and gather evidence such as photos, witness information, and driver details.

Because e-bike laws and liability can be complex, it is essential to work with an experienced personal injury attorney. Our lawyers can determine whether a negligent driver, a manufacturer defect, or an unsafe roadway condition contributed to the crash and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt, P.A.

If you or someone you love was injured in an e-bike accident in Charlotte, the attorneys at Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt, P.A. are here to help. We understand the unique challenges of e-bike injury claims and have the experience to hold negligent drivers and companies accountable.

Call 704-377-3737 or contact us online to schedule a complimentary consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and fight for the recovery you deserve.

We provide unique legal services tailored to each client’s needs and do not get paid unless you do.

Your Injury, Our Fight. How can we help you take a stand?

Because every case is different, the description of awards and issues previously managed by our law firm does not guarantee a similar outcome in current or future cases.