Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are becoming increasingly popular among teenagers throughout Massachusetts. While they offer a convenient way to get around, they also introduce serious safety concerns, especially when sharing the road with cars and trucks.
When a teenager on an e-bike gets hit by a car, parents often have one urgent question: Who is responsible for the accident?
The answer depends on how the accident happened, who was negligent, and Massachusetts bicycle laws. At Faneuf Law Group, our experienced bicycle accident attorneys help families understand their rights and pursue compensation after serious injuries.
Who Is at Fault in a Teen E-Bike Accident?
In many cases, the driver of the vehicle may be responsible if their negligence caused the collision. Common examples include:
Distracted driving or texting behind the wheel
Speeding or reckless driving
Failing to yield to a bicyclist
Running a red light or stop sign
Opening a car door into an approaching cyclist
Making an unsafe turn at an intersection
However, drivers aren't automatically responsible for every e-bike accident. Investigators must consider the actions of everyone involved.
A teenager riding an e-bike could share responsibility if they ignored traffic signals, rode unpredictably, or failed to follow applicable roadway laws.
Importantly, a teenager's age does not automatically prevent them from pursuing compensation.
What Does Massachusetts Law Say About Teenagers Riding E-Bikes?
Massachusetts recognizes Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles, which generally provide motor assistance up to 20 mph.
Under Massachusetts bicycle laws, cyclists have roadway rights and must follow applicable traffic regulations.
Massachusetts also requires bicycle riders ages 16 and younger to wear helmets. However, a violation of the bicycle helmet requirement cannot be used as evidence of contributory negligence in a civil lawsuit.
The specific type of e-bike matters, particularly when a bicycle exceeds the state's legal classifications.
Can Parents File a Personal Injury Claim for Their Teenager?
Yes. Parents or legal guardians can generally pursue a personal injury claim on behalf of an injured minor.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may be available for:
Emergency medical treatment and hospital bills
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Future medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Damage to the teenager's e-bike
Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means an injured person may still recover damages when partially responsible, provided their share of fault does not exceed 50%. Any recovery is reduced according to their percentage of fault.
Our Massachusetts personal injury attorneys can evaluate the evidence and explain how these rules may affect your family's claim.
Will Insurance Cover a Teenager's E-Bike Accident?
Insurance coverage is one of the most confusing aspects of an e-bike accident.
Depending on the circumstances, coverage may be available through the at-fault driver's automobile insurance, certain household insurance policies, or other applicable coverage.
Parents frequently ask:
Who will pay my teenager's medical bills?
Does our automobile insurance cover bicycle injuries?
Will insurance pay to replace the damaged e-bike?
Can we pursue compensation if our teenager was partially at fault?
The answers depend on the accident, the insurance policies involved, and the classification of the e-bike.
What Should Parents Do After an E-Bike Accident?
If your teenager has been struck by a vehicle, prioritize their safety and medical treatment.
Report the accident to police, document injuries, preserve photographs of the scene, and obtain witness contact information whenever possible.
Avoid accepting an insurance settlement before understanding the full extent of your teenager's injuries.
Speaking with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer can help protect your family's legal rights.
Contact Faneuf Law Group for a Free E-Bike Accident Consultation
If your teenager was injured in an e-bike accident in Boston, Woburn, or anywhere in Massachusetts, Faneuf Law Group is here to help.
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling personal injury claims, including serious bicycle accidents. We'll investigate what happened, review available insurance coverage, and help your family understand its legal options.
Let our team handle the insurance paperwork and legal challenges while you focus on your teenager's recovery.
Call 617-939-9894 today for a FREE consultation, or contact Faneuf Law Group online.
No legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.