How to Protect Yourself While Riding an E-bike in Oregon

Posted on behalf of RizkLaw on Oct 05, 2022 in Personal Injury

You probably don’t even have to live in Oregon to know that Portland is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the nation. Portland consistently ranks at the top of the charts on lists of the most bikeable cities in the United States, including PeopleForBike’s 2022 annual city rankings. While many of the bikes you will see around Portland are pedal-driven, motorized e-bikes are showing up on Oregon streets more and more often.

While e-bikes are used for both recreational and commuting purposes in Oregon, this fun and functional activity can also be incredibly dangerous. Injuries suffered on electric-assisted bicycles can lead to life-long injuries, so staying safe on these electric vehicles is a necessary priority. However, if you or someone you love has suffered an injury in an Oregon e-bike crash, Rizk Law personal injury lawyers may be able to help you recover compensation for your damages.

5 Safety Tips to Consider Before Getting on an E-bike in Oregon

E-bikes may still currently be categorized as bicycles by the State of Oregon, but they operate differently than the classic bicycle. Because electric bikes are not limited by the physical power of a human, they can reach fairly high speeds. Oregon does not currently have a maximum allowed speed in place, so accidents can be tragic.

Stay safe when riding an e-bike in Oregon by practicing these tips:

Use Bike Lights or Wear Reflective Clothing

One of the most important safety tips while on any kind of bicycle is to make sure you remain as visible as possible to others. This tip is so vital that Oregon made it a state law that bike lights must be used any time visibility is compromised.

Be 16 Years of Age or Older

Riders must legally be over the age of 16 to operate an e-bike in Oregon because younger riders are more likely to suffer an injury. Although riders must be over 16, riders are not obligated to have a license, registration, or insurance.

Wear a Helmet

Protecting your brain from suffering a traumatic injury is crucial, especially in bicycle accidents where you do not have any kind of exterior shell to protect you like you would in a car.

Do Not Ride on Sidewalks

E-bikes may be used on bike paths, bike lanes, and crosswalks. However, it is both dangerous and illegal (under ORS 814.410) to operate an e-bike on a sidewalk in Oregon.

Ride Sober

Many Oregon e-bike riders may be unaware that riding while intoxicated is not only dangerous but that it could lead to a charge for DUI.

Unfortunately, you could be doing everything correctly and still suffer a traumatic accident. If you have been in an e-bike accident that was not your fault, reach out to an Oregon e-bike accident lawyer.

Contact an Experienced E-Bike Accident Attorney in Oregon for a Free Case Review

Every time you climb aboard an e-bike, it is essential to prioritize your own personal safety. Unfortunately, even when you have done all you can to keep yourself safe, an e-bike crash may still happen. Suppose you or someone you care about has suffered an injury in an Oregon e-bike accident due to another party’s negligence. In that case, you can pursue a legal claim to recover your damages with a Rizk Law personal injury lawyer.

Rizk Law lawyers have defended personal injury claims for Oregonians like you for many years. Our team is highly proficient and committed to fighting for your interests. Call (503) 245-5677 or complete our contact form to schedule a free case evaluation today.

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