"Electric bicycles are under increasing scrutiny, often for the wrong reasons. In this three-part series, PeopleForBikes separates fact from fiction to protect the future of e-bikes in America, clarify what qualifies as a legal electric bicycle, and call out bad actors mislabeling high-powered motor vehicles as "e-bikes." This is Part II. To read the Part I, click here. Previously, we explored the critical differences between legal electric bicycles and high-powered e-motos."
"But what if you already bought one? Maybe for yourself, maybe for your child? You're riding it around the neighborhood or to school. What's the harm if it looks like a bike, right? Unfortunately, so much can go wrong. In this second installment of our series, we examine the legal, financial, and safety risks that e-moto riders and their families face every day. From voided insurance claims to fines and injuries, the implications are serious."
Legal distinctions separate low-powered, class-compliant electric bicycles from high-powered e-motos that function and are regulated as motor vehicles. Purchasing a high-powered vehicle marketed as an e-bike can trigger traffic stops, citations, and criminal or civil penalties if the vehicle requires registration or a motorcycle endorsement. Insurance policies may be voided when a vehicle is mischaracterized, leaving families financially exposed after crashes. Young riders face amplified safety hazards on high-powered machines. Consumer awareness, correct labeling, and enforcement of state vehicle statutes determine legal and safety outcomes for riders and families.
Read at Streetsblog
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