Do E-Bikes have to be insured or registered in the State of New York?

Currently, Electronic bikes, also known as E-bikes, do not have to be insured or registered in the State of New York. However, specific municipalities, like towns or cities, can, and do, pass regulations regarding E-bike use. Further, New York State lawmakers are considering legislation that would require E-bikes be insured and registered. Notably, mopeds do not qualify as E-bikes and must be insured. With that in mind, toady’s blog will discuss the current E-bike legal outlook and possible future changes.

E-bikes are required to be operated in bike lanes if possible. However, E-bikes can be used on streets and highways with a speed limit of 30 miles per hour or less. E-bikes cannot be operated on the sidewalk, unless such is specifically allowed by the municipality one is in. E-bike operators must be at least 16 years old and can have passengers. E-bike laws vary depending on the municipality one is in. Municipalities can even ban the use of E-bikes or require operators to wear reflective clothing, among other things. As stated above, currently, E bikes do not have to be insured or registered in the State of New York. New York State E-bike law differs slightly depending on what kind of E-bike is being used.  There are three different categories of E-bike.

• (1) “Bicycle with electrical assist.” A bicycle with electric assist that has an electric motor that provides assistance only when the bicycle is pedaled, and stops providing assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of twenty miles per hour.
• (2) “Class two bicycle with electric assist.” A bicycle with electric assist that has an electric motor that can be used exclusively to propel a bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when such bicycle reaches a speed of twenty miles per hour.
• (3) “Class three bicycle with electric assist.” a bicycle with electric assist having an electric motor that may be used exclusively to propel such bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when such bicycle reaches a speed of twenty-five miles per hour. This third section only applies to E-bikes within a city that has a population of one million or more.

E-bike operators are not legally required to wear helmets when using Class 1 or 2 E-bikes. However, E-bike operators are legally required to wear a helmet when using Class 3 E-bikes. Further, legal changes to E-bikes are on the horizon.

Currently, two major bills are being considered by New York State law makers in relation to E-bikes. “Priscilla’s Law” is a proposed law in the New York State Senate that would require E-bikes to be registered and have license plates. Senate Bill S2528 is a proposed law in the New York State Senate that would require E-bikes and electric scooters, operated in cities with a population of more than one million, to be insured. While insurance is not currently required, such does not mean you cannot get insurance for your E-bike. Due to E-bikes’ high speed, E-bike collision and injuries are much more common. Insurance can you help protect you and your assets if you are involved in an E-bike accident.

If you were hurt, either while riding an E-bike or because of an E-bike, you should contact an experienced personal injury attorney.  At Zalman Schnurman & Miner P.C., the first consultation is always free. Contact us now by phone at 212-668-0059 or over email at info@1800lawline.com.