Posted By SalterHealy|
October 28 2025 |Car Accidents
Electric bicycles (E-bikes) are becoming increasingly popular across Florida, offering a fast, eco-friendly way to get around Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and the rest of Pinellas County. But with this growing trend comes confusion about E-bike laws — and a rise in accidents and injuries involving riders, pedestrians, and motorists.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an E-bike accident, understanding your rights under Florida law is crucial. At Salter, Healy, Rivera & Heptner, our personal injury attorneys help E-bike riders and accident victims navigate the complex laws surrounding electric bicycles and pursue full compensation for their injuries.
Florida’s E-Bike Laws: What Riders Need to Know
Florida law (F.S. §316.003(22)) defines an electric bicycle as a bicycle equipped with a motor of less than 750 watts that assists the rider while pedaling, with a maximum speed of 28 mph depending on the class of E-bike.
There are three classes of E-bikes:
Class 1 – Pedal-assist only; motor stops assisting at 20 mph.
Class 2 – Throttle-assisted; motor can propel the bike up to 20 mph without pedaling.
Class 3 – Pedal-assist only; motor assists up to 28 mph.
Key legal points for Florida riders:
E-bikes are treated like traditional bicycles under Florida law.
No license, registration, or insurance is required.
Riders under 16 cannot operate a Class 3 E-bike.
Helmets are required for riders under 16, though they are recommended for everyone.
E-bikes can be used on roads, bike lanes, and multi-use paths, unless a local ordinance prohibits it.
E-Bike Accidents and Common Injuries in Pinellas County
E-bike accidents can result from negligent drivers, unsafe bike paths, or mechanical defects. In busy areas like Clearwater Beach, Downtown St. Petersburg, and the Pinellas Trail, riders are especially vulnerable to collisions with cars or pedestrians.
Common E-bike injuries include:
Head and traumatic brain injuries
Broken bones and fractures
Road rash and lacerations
Spinal cord injuries
Internal bleeding and organ damage
Because E-bikes can reach high speeds, the resulting injuries are often severe — similar to those seen in motorcycle accidents.
Who Is Liable for an E-Bike Accident?
Determining liability depends on the circumstances of the crash. You may be entitled to compensation if your injuries were caused by:
A negligent driver who failed to yield or was distracted
A poorly maintained road or bike path
A defective E-bike or malfunctioning battery
Florida’s comparative negligence law allows victims to recover damages even if they were partially at fault — as long as they are not more than 50% responsible for the accident.
What to Do After an E-Bike Accident in Florida
If you’re injured in an E-bike crash:
Seek medical attention immediately.
Call law enforcement to file an accident report.
Gather photos, witness information, and insurance details.
Do not give statements to the other party’s insurer before speaking with an attorney.
An experienced Florida E-bike accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
At Salter Healy, Rivera & Heptner, we handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on recovery. We investigate the accident, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court.
Contact a Pinellas County E-Bike Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured while riding an E-Bike in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, or anywhere in Florida, you don’t have to navigate the insurance process alone.
Let the experienced team at Salter, Healy, Rivera & Heptner help you understand who pays your medical bills after a car accident and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.
