Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are a growing trend in California and around the country, with ridership rates spiking significantly in the last year. Unfortunately, this has translated to an increase in e-bike accidents, as well. Before you ride an e-bike, it’s important to learn California’s related laws for your safety.
What Is an E-Bike?
An electric bike under California Vehicle Code (CVC) §312.5 is “a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor that does not exceed 750 watts of power.” E-bikes are not synonymous with motorcycles or mopeds in California. They are their own type of vehicle with their own set of laws.
Electric Bicycle Classifications
E-bikes are grouped into one of three classifications in California based on the speed of the bicycle and the power of the motor:
- Class 1: a low-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle with a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and cannot exclusively propel the bicycle. The motor stops providing assistance when the bike reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour (mph).
- Class 2: a low-speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle with a motor that can be exclusively used to propel the bicycle. The motor is incapable of providing assistance once the bike reaches 20 mph.
- Class 3: a speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling. The motor stops providing assistance when the bike reaches a speed of 28 mph.
Modifying an e-bike to exceed these speeds is against the law without the correct license. If a two-wheeled vehicle can travel faster than 28 mph with pedal assistance or 20 mph with throttle assistance, it is classified as a moped or motorcycle, not an e-bike.
E-Bike Laws in California
What Is the Age Minimum for E-Bike Riders in California?
There is no age minimum set on Class 1 or Class 2 electric bicycles in California. To ride a Class 3 e-bike, however, the minimum age is 16 years old. A driver’s license and vehicle registration are not required unless the e-bike qualifies as a moped.
Do I Have to Wear a Helmet to Ride an E-Bike in California?
All e-bike riders under the age of 18 are legally required to wear helmets in California. If an e-bike is designed to carry a passenger, any passengers under the age of 18 must also wear safety helmets. To operate a Class 3 electric bicycle in California, all riders – regardless of age – must legally wear helmets.
Where Can I Ride an E-Bike in California?
Different classifications of e-bikes may be ridden in different places in California. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes may be ridden on all bicycle paths, bicycle lanes, bicycle routes and protected lanes in California. However, restrictions prohibit operating a Class 3 e-bike on a Class 1 bicycle path or a Class 4 protected lane. Local authorities also have the right to prohibit certain types of e-bikes on particular paths or lanes.
What Rules of the Road Must an E-Bicyclist Follow?
E-bike operators in California are subject to all the same rules of the road as traditional bicyclists. They must ride in the same direction as traffic on public roads, obey posted signs and speed limits, and yield the right-of-way to others. Motorists must respect an e-biker’s right to the road and maintain a following distance of at least three feet when passing. If a motorist causes an e-bike accident, he or she can be held responsible for paying for the e-bike rider’s injuries according to California’s fault-based law.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash involving an electric bicycle, an experienced Sacramento e-bike accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Contact Jacoby & Meyers today for a free consultation.