John C. Austin | July 2, 2024 | Bicycle Accidents

Florida law defines an electric bicycle as a tricycle or bicycle with a seat or saddle for the rider and fully operable pedals. The vehicle must also have an electric motor that cannot exceed 750 watts. Electric-assisted bicycles are becoming more popular in New Port Richey and throughout Florida.

Riders should be aware of the important Florida electric bicycle laws and how they impact the rider’s rights on the road. Below are answers to questions about electric bicycles in Florida.

Does Florida Require Riders To Have a License for Operating an Electric Bicycle?

No, you do not need a driver’s license or other license to operate an electric bicycle. However, riders must be 16 years old or older to ride one.

Do Electric Bicycle Riders Need To Wear a Helmet in Florida?

There is no helmet law for electric bicycles in Florida. However, as with regular bicycles, it is wise to wear a helmet. Wearing a bicycle helmet reduces the risk of severe injuries and death in a bicycle accident.

Do I Need To Register My Electric Bicycle in Florida?

You are not required to register an electric bicycle or obtain a license plate from the state. However, the electric bicycle must have a top speed of less than 20 mph.

What Is the Rule for an Electric Bicycle That Goes Over 20 MPH?

Electric bicycles that exceed 20 mph are not considered bicycles. Instead, the law defines the vehicle as a Class E moped if it has a top speed of 30 mph. Mopeds must be registered, and you must have a license to operate them.

Does Florida Require Insurance for Electric Bicycles?

The state does not require you to purchase additional insurance to cover an electric bicycle. However, you may want to consider insurance for your electric bicycle to protect it from damage or theft. Insurance is also available to protect you in case of a bicycle accident.

Where Can I Ride an Electric Bicycle in Florida?

You can ride an electric bicycle on the road but must follow Florida traffic laws. Riders generally have the same rights as riders on human-powered bicycles. Therefore, you can ride an e-bicycle just about anywhere you can ride a regular bicycle.

Remember, cities can implement laws governing where you can ride bicycles. You should always check local ordinances to ensure riding an electric bicycle on a sidewalk or bike lane is permitted within the city limits.

Can a Person Be Charged With DUI While Riding an Electric Bicycle?

Florida DUI laws apply to all vehicles, including electric bicycles. Therefore, if you ride your electric bicycle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, you could be charged with DUI. The penalties include jail time, fines, and license suspension.

What Should I Do if I’m Involved in an Accident While Riding My Electric Bicycle?

An electric bicycle accident should be treated just like all other traffic accidents. Call 911 to report the accident and request help.

A bicyclist has a high risk of sustaining catastrophic injuries if they are hit by another vehicle. Do not decline medical treatment or say that you are fine or okay. Instead, seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries.

Keep detailed records of the losses and expenses you incur because of the electric bicycle accident. It is also helpful to take photographs of your injuries as you heal and keep a pain and suffering journal.

Can I Receive Damages if I’m Injured in an Electric Bicycle Accident in Florida?

Do not admit fault for an electric bicycle accident. Florida is a no-fault insurance state, so you may be able to file a claim with your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance carrier after a collision. PIP can provide (limited) benefits in the event of an accident.

However, you might have an injury claim against the at-fault driver if you sustained severe injuries or if another exception applies. Damages in an electric bicycle accident claim against the responsible party include full economic and non-economic damages such as:

The amount you receive for your claim depends on the facts of the case. If you are injured in an electric bicycle accident, you should contact a local electric bicycle accident lawyer for help. An attorney will advise you of your legal options for seeking compensation for injuries.

Contact a New Port Richey Personal Injury Attorney for a Free Case Review

For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Clearwater. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.

We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 787-2500