Pedestrian Hit by E-Bike Rider in California?

Expert Legal Guidance for Pedestrians Injured by Electric Bicycle Riders

In 2023, McGee Lerer Ogrin obtained a California Court of Appeals ruling in Hacala v. Bird Rides Inc. that established new legal rights for pedestrians injured by e-bikes and scooters — the first ruling of its kind in California. Founding partner Catherine Lerer, cited by the Los Angeles Times in April 2026 as an e-bike safety authority, has handled dozens of these cases and advised cities across the US and Europe on micromobility policy. If you were hit by an e-bike in California, you are speaking with the right firm.

You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. California's e-bike laws are still evolving, and insurance coverage in these cases is rarely straightforward.

Call (310) 775-2491 for a free consultation — you will speak directly with our California pedestrian e-bike accident lawyers.

The Rise of E-Bike vs. Pedestrian Collisions

Electric bicycle accidents involving pedestrians are becoming increasingly common across California. Unlike traditional bicycles, e-bikes can reach speeds of 20-28 mph, making collisions with pedestrians significantly more dangerous. These accidents often occur on sidewalks, where pedestrians rightfully expect to feel safe.

What makes these accidents particularly concerning is that many e-bike riders are children or teenagers who may not fully understand the power and speed of their electric bicycles. A child riding an e-bike at 20+ mph can cause serious injuries to pedestrians, especially elderly individuals or other children.

Why E-Bike Pedestrian Accidents Are Different

• Speed and weight: E-bikes are heavier and faster than traditional bicycles
• Sidewalk collisions: Many accidents happen where pedestrians feel safest
• Young riders: Children often lack the skills to control e-bikes safely
• Unclear laws: Regulations vary by city and are still evolving

Common Injuries When E-Bikes Hit Pedestrians

The combination of an e-bike's speed and weight can cause severe injuries to pedestrians, including:

• Fractures and broken bones - especially in older adults
• Traumatic brain injuries - from falls to the ground
• Soft tissue injuries - cuts, bruises, and road rash
• Spinal cord injuries - in severe collisions
• Psychological trauma - anxiety about walking in public spaces

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and physical therapy, and can result in permanent disabilities. The medical costs can be overwhelming, especially when the accident happens suddenly and unexpectedly.

Who's Liable When an E-Bike Hits a Pedestrian?

Determining liability in e-bike pedestrian accidents can be complex. Several factors come into play:

When the E-Bike Rider is a Minor

In California, parents or guardians are typically responsible for their minor child's actions. This means if a child riding an e-bike injures a pedestrian, the parents may be held liable for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Sidewalk vs. Street Accidents

California law regarding e-bikes on sidewalks varies by city. Individual cities and counties control whether bicyclists may ride on sidewalks, according to California Vehicle Code 21206. However, e-bike users must follow the same rules of the road that all other cyclists do, such as following the speed limit, safely passing other vehicles, and giving the right of way to pedestrians. Additionally, Class 3 e-bikes — capable of reaching 28 mph — are prohibited from sidewalks statewide under California law, regardless of local ordinance. 

In many cases, pedestrians have the right of way on sidewalks, regardless of whether e-bikes are technically allowed.

Insurance Coverage After E-Bike Pedestrian Accidents

One of the most confusing aspects of e-bike accidents is determining what insurance coverage applies. Many people don't realize that:

Homeowners’ and Renters' Insurance

If the e-bike rider is a minor, their parents' homeowners' or renters' insurance may cover the accident. This is often the primary source of compensation for injured pedestrians.

When There's No Insurance

If the e-bike rider has no insurance coverage, you may be able to use your own:

• Uninsured motorist coverage - may apply in some cases
• Medical payments coverage - can help with immediate medical bills
• Personal injury protection - if available on your policy

Some homeowners and renters policies contain exclusions for motorized vehicles — including high-wattage e-bikes. Our attorneys can review the applicable policy and identify whether an exclusion applies or can be challenged.