Should You Wear a Helmet While Riding an E-bike?

As electric bikes (ebikes) continue to grow in popularity, questions about their safety have arisen. One of the most debated topics is whether or not to wear a helmet while riding an e-bike. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why wearing a helmet while riding an ebike is important, and some statistics related to cycle crashes and cycle deaths.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that e-bikes are not toys. While they may look similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes can travel at much higher speeds and require a higher level of skill and attention to operate safely. In fact, some e-bikes can travel up to 28 mph, which is faster than the average speed of a traditional bike. This increased speed, coupled with the added weight of an e-bike’s battery and motor, can make e-bikes more difficult to control and more dangerous in the event of an accident.

Stats from State Side

Now, let’s take a look at some statistics related to cycle crashes and cycle deaths. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 857 bicyclists killed in traffic crashes in the United States in 2018. This number represents a 6% increase from 2017. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that in 2013 alone, there were almost 494,000 emergency department visits due to bicycle-related injuries, and over 900 bicyclists died as a result of their injuries.

While these statistics are alarming, they also highlight the importance of wearing a helmet while riding any type of bicycle, including e-bikes. Studies have shown that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by up to 85%. In fact, many states and municipalities have laws that require all cyclists, including those on e-bikes, to wear a helmet while riding.

Wearing a helmet while riding an e-bike is not only important for your own safety but also for the safety of those around you. If you were to get into an accident while riding an e-bike, the force of the impact could cause serious injuries to your head and brain, which could lead to long-term disability or even death. Wearing a helmet can help protect your head and brain from these types of injuries, and can also help reduce the severity of injuries to other parts of your body.

In conclusion, while wearing a helmet while riding an e-bike may not be required by law in all states, it is strongly recommended for your own safety and the safety of those around you. Ebikes can be fun and convenient modes of transportation, but they can also be dangerous if not operated safely. By wearing a helmet, you can help reduce your risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.