Florida E-Bike Laws & Accidents: What Riders Need to Know

Electric bicycles—commonly known as e-bikes—are becoming increasingly popular across Florida. From the scenic paths of Fort Lauderdale Beach to the bustling streets of Miami, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach, these battery-powered bikes offer convenience, speed, and an eco-friendly alternative to driving. But as their popularity grows, so do the risks—and understanding Florida’s e-bike laws is critical for both safety and legal protection. At Stockwell Law, our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys have helped countless riders injured in e-bike accidents understand their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. Here’s what every Florida e-bike rider should know.

Understanding Florida’s E-Bike Laws

In Florida, electric bicycles are defined and regulated under Florida Statute §316.20655. The law divides e-bikes into three classifications, each based on speed and motor assistance:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only—motor stops when the rider reaches 20 mph.

• Class 2: Throttle-assisted—can propel the bike without pedaling, but still capped at 20 mph.

• Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph, with a speedometer required.

Under Florida law, e-bikes are treated the same as traditional bicycles. That means:

• You do not need a license or registration to ride one.

• Riders under 16 years old must wear a helmet.

• You can ride in bike lanes, on most roads, and multi-use paths, unless specifically prohibited by local ordinances.

• E-bikes must follow the same traffic laws as cars and bicycles—stopping at lights, yielding to pedestrians, and riding in the direction of traffic.

However, local governments can impose their own restrictions on where higher-speed e-bikes can operate, especially in parks or along shared pedestrian trails. Always check local city ordinances before riding in public areas.

E-Bike Accidents Are on the Rise in Florida

As more e-bikes hit the roads, Florida has seen a sharp increase in electric bicycle accidents. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), e-bike crashes have risen significantly since 2020, with Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties among the top regions reporting incidents.

Common causes of e-bike accidents include:

• Driver negligence (failing to yield, speeding, or distracted driving)

• Unsafe road conditions, such as potholes or uneven pavement

• Malfunctioning e-bike components, including faulty brakes or batteries

• Rider inexperience or improper maintenance

• Visibility issues, especially at night or in poor weather

Even a low-speed collision between an e-bike and a motor vehicle can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, or spinal damage. Because many riders assume e-bikes are “just bicycles,” they often don’t realize the legal and insurance complexities that come with these accidents.

Who’s Liable in a Florida E-Bike Accident?

Determining liability in an e-bike crash depends on how and where the accident occurred. You may be entitled to compensation if:

• A driver was texting, speeding, or failed to yield.

• A city or county neglected road maintenance, leading to a dangerous condition.

• The manufacturer or retailer sold a defective e-bike or part that caused your crash.

• Another cyclist or pedestrian acted recklessly and caused the collision.

At Stockwell Law, our attorneys investigate every angle of your case—reviewing traffic camera footage, police reports, witness statements, and expert evaluations—to establish fault and pursue the maximum compensation available.

What to Do After an E-Bike Accident

If you’re involved in an e-bike crash in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in Florida, take these important steps:

1. Call 911 immediately. File an official police report, even if injuries seem minor.

2. Seek medical care. Some injuries (like concussions or internal trauma) may not appear right away.

3. Document everything. Take photos of your injuries, the e-bike, and the accident scene.

4. Get witness information. Their statements can be crucial for your claim.

5. Contact a personal injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

If another party’s negligence caused your e-bike accident, you may be eligible for compensation that includes:

• Medical expenses and rehabilitation

• Lost wages and reduced earning potential

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Property damage

• Long-term care for serious injuries

Because Florida operates under comparative negligence laws, even if you were partially at fault, you may still be able to recover damages. The key is having an experienced Fort Lauderdale e-bike accident lawyer who understands how to navigate these complex claims.

Stockwell Law – Protecting Florida’s Riders

At Stockwell Law, we represent injured cyclists and e-bike riders across Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Plantation, Sunrise, and throughout Broward County. Our goal is to protect your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation you deserve. We work on a zero-charge, no-win-no-fee basis—so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

E-bikes offer convenience, freedom, and fun—but they also bring new risks that require awareness and legal protection.

Call Stockwell Law today for a free consultation and get the dedicated representation you need to move forward.