Guide to E-Bike Laws in Indiana

E-bikes are bicycles with integrated electric motors that assist users while pedaling. They let cyclists go faster and carrier heavier loads. Many people have turned to e-bikes as a way to save money on gas, avoid traffic jams, and spend more time outside.

Unfortunately, as their popularity increases, so do accidents involving electric bikes. Those who suffer harmful crashes on their e-bikes may be able to recover financial compensation for their injuries. Our attorneys can help injured cyclists evaluate the strength of their cases against at-fault parties.

If you were hurt because of an e-bike crash in Indiana, get support from our experienced personal injury attorneys at Wruck Paupore today by calling (219) 322-1166.

Are E-Bikes Legal in Indiana?

Electric bicycles are legal in Indiana. The state divides e-bikes into three separate classes. Class 1 bicycles refer to e-bikes equipped with motors that only assist users when pedaling and cease to assist when the rider reaches 20 mph. Class 2 bicycles describe bikes equipped with throttle-actuated motors that stop propelling riders after 20 mph. Finally, Class 3 bicycles are those equipped with motors that only assist riders while pedaling and cease to provide propulsion after reaching 28 mph.

Class 3 bikes are subject to more stringent rules than the other classes. Generally, Class 3 bikes are not permitted on bicycle paths, trails, or other multipurpose paths unless they are adjacent to roadways or highways. However, in some cases, state agencies and local authorities will allow the use of Class 3 bikes on certain paths where it would otherwise be restricted. Furthermore, riders must be at least 15 years of age in order to drive Class 3 e-bikes. If you are younger than 15, you may still ride a Class 3 bike as a passenger.

Those who are injured because of accidents involving any class of e-bike can reach out to our personal injury attorneys for help understanding their options for pursuing monetary damages.

Can You Ride E-Bikes on Public Roads in Indiana?

Electric bicycles may be ridden on public roads in Indiana. They are treated the same as standard bikes. However, certain roads do not permit any bicycles whatsoever, electric or manual.

Therefore, e-bikes can be ridden on all roads except those that do not allow cyclists. In the aftermath of an e-bike accident on an Indiana public road, call our law firm for guidance and support. Our experienced personal injury lawyers can review your case and explain the appropriate steps to take.

Are E-Bikes Allowed in Indiana State Parks?

All classes of e-bikes are allowed on the paved and gravel roads that traverse state parks in Indiana. However, some restrictions have been established when it comes to mountain bike trails and other multi-use trails.

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) permits the use of Class 1 and 2 bikes on all paved, multi-use trails. Furthermore, as of 2021, Class 1 pedal-assist bikes may be taken on all types of trails designated for mountain bike use.

However, the use of Class 3 bicycles is prohibited on multi-use trails through Indiana state parks. Moreover, Class 2 and 3 bikes are still restricted from being ridden on mountain bike trails.

Victims of e-bike crashes in Indiana state parks may be entitled to payment for the harm they endured. If your crash occurred because of someone else’s negligent actions, contact our personal injury attorneys for help building your claim.

Do You Need a License to Ride an E-Bike in Indiana?

Indiana has not established any licensing requirements for e-bikes. Furthermore, those who ride electric bicycles do not have to obtain insurance or registration for their vehicles.

Still, certain regulations have been set forth to promote cyclists’ safety. For instance, helmets must be worn by anyone riding a Class 3 e-bike. Additionally, operators of Class 3 e-bikes must be older than 15. Lastly, the state of Indiana also requires that e-bikes be equipped with motors powered by 750 watts or less.

Can You Sue if You Were Injured Riding an E-Bike in Indiana?

If you were hurt while riding an electric bicycle in Indiana, you may be able to sue the party responsible for your crash. Many forms of negligent behavior can lead to e-bike crashes. For instance, accidents may happen as a result of the following:

• Distracted driving
• Improper left turns
• Speeding
• Illegal lane changes
• Drunk driving
• Poor road conditions
• Disobeying traffic signals

If you were hurt because of an e-bike crash stemming from one of the aforementioned sources, you should call our law firm right away. Our legal team can investigate your accident and determine who to sue. Furthermore, our personal injury attorneys will help gather evidence to support your case and negotiate for the financial compensation you deserve.

How Long Do You Have to Sue for an E-Bike Accident in Indiana?

If you were hurt because of an e-bike crash in Indiana, you will typically have two years from the date of your crash to sue for the injuries you suffered. The statute of limitations for e-bike injury cases is found under I.C. § 34-11-2-4(a)(1). Potential plaintiffs who do not file their cases on time may have their claim dismissed.

Our legal team can help bring your case to court on time. Furthermore, the sooner you call our lawyers, the more efficiently we can gather and preserve the evidence needed to support your claim. If you wait too long to contact our team, relevant evidence may deteriorate or become lost.

Accordingly, you should reach out to our personal injury attorneys as quickly as possible after your e-bike accident. We can assess your case and determine the proper course of action.

E-Bike Accident Victims in Indiana Can Call Our Lawyers for Help

If you sustained an injury as the result of an e-bike accident, seek assistance from our personal injury attorneys at Wruck Paupore by dialing (219) 322-1166 for a free evaluation of your potential case.