Governor Hochul Passes New E-Bike Laws After Another Scooter Death in Manhattan
Scooter riders are losing their lives at a rapid pace in Manhattan, and the government has finally decided to act. A new set of laws will reportedly make e-bikes safer in New York, and they focus specifically on the dangers of lithium-ion batteries. This comes after yet another scooter rider lost their life in a Manhattan crash. What can you do if you were injured in a Manhattan scooter accident?
Scooter Rider Dies After Accident Involving Unlicensed SUV
In July of 2024, a scooter rider in Manhattan lost his life after colliding with an SUV. Police later reported that the driver was operating the SUV without a valid license, and that he may have run a red light while speeding prior to the crash. However, they noted that their investigation is still underway. So far, they have only charged the driver with a single crime: Driving without a license. Additional charges may be possible.
Governor Hochul Passes Numerous E-Bike Laws in New York
The recent scooter fatality is a continuation of a pattern we have been seeing for years in New York. Since these new vehicles first gained popularity in the city, accidents have spiked with no sign of slowing down. While scooter drivers are often guilty of operating their vehicles recklessly, many crashes are caused by negligent drivers.
With so many deaths and serious injuries, Governor Hochul has decided to take action. Her new “legislative package” contains numerous laws regarding e-bikes. This package is distinct because it contains laws on both e-bike accidents and lithium-ion batteries.
New Yorkers are undoubtedly aware that e-bikes and e-scooters pose two main threats to the average resident: The first threat is a straightforward e-bike crash, while the second threat is a lithium-ion battery fire. Both have taken many lives in New York within the past few years.
Here is a brief summary of Governor Hochul’s new e-bike laws:
- Stricter manufacturing standards for lithium-ion batteries
- More fire prevention resources for battery fires
- More training for lithium-ion battery fire responders
- Mandatory operating manuals for consumers of e-bikes
- E-bike crashes that cause deaths and injuries now trigger accident reports
- Red tags for charging cords that remind users to unplug when not in use
- More fines for e-bike riders who do not yield to pedestrians
Key Takeaways
- New York’s new e-bike laws ensure high manufacturing standards
- E-bike companies are now required to provide consumers with operating manuals
- E-bike crashes now result in official accident reports (just like auto crashes)
Find an Experienced Scooter Accident Lawyer in New York
If you’ve been searching for an experienced personal injury lawyer in New York, look no further than Cohan Law, PLLC. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured plaintiffs throughout the Empire State – including those injured in e-bike crashes. We know how dangerous these incidents can be – and we know how easily negligent drivers can cause catastrophic injuries. For more information about your legal options, contact us today.
Sources:
nysenate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2024/brian-kavanagh/governor-hochul-signs-legislation-encourage-safe-use-e
abc7ny.com/post/scooter-rider-killed-suv-driver-arrested-after-crash/15061451/
