The Rise of Micro-Mobility in Michigan
From downtown Detroit to college campuses in Ann Arbor and East Lansing, electric bicycles (e-bikes) have become a dominant mode of daily commuting and recreation. Offering motor assistance up to 28 mph, e-bikes allow riders to travel faster and farther than traditional bicycles. However, because e-bikes share traffic lanes with multi-ton motor vehicles, e-bike riders face immense vulnerability when motorists fail to yield or double-check their blind spots.
In the event of a crash between a motor vehicle and an e-bike, the resulting injuries—ranging from traumatic brain injuries and spinal fractures to severe road rash—are frequently catastrophic. Navigating an e-bike injury claim requires a clear understanding of how Michigan statutory law classifies these hybrid vehicles and how insurance carriers treat them under the state's No-Fault system.
How Michigan Law Classifies E-Bikes
Under the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.13e), electric bicycles are categorized into three distinct classes based on their motor output and speed capabilities:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, where the motor provides help only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to assist when the bike reaches 20 mph.
- Class 2: Throttle-assisted, where the motor can propel the bike independently without pedaling, disengaging at 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only, equipped with a speedometer, where the motor provides assistance up to 28 mph.
Crucially, Michigan law explicitly clarifies that e-bikes within these three classes are not motor vehicles or mopeds. Therefore, registered e-bike riders are granted the same legal rights and responsibilities as traditional bicyclists on public roadways.
Are E-Bike Riders Covered Under Michigan No-Fault PIP?
Because an e-bike is not defined as a motor vehicle, an e-bike rider involved in a collision with an automobile is legally considered a pedestrian/non-occupant under Michigan's No-Fault Act. This means you do not need auto insurance on your e-bike to access essential medical coverage after being struck by a car.
If you are struck by a motor vehicle while riding your e-bike, your medical expenses, lost wages, and attendant care are covered by your own auto insurance policy's Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. If you do not own a vehicle or carry auto insurance, coverage rolls to a resident relative's policy, or ultimately through the Michigan Automobile Insurance Placement Facility (MAIPF) under the Michigan No-Fault Assigned Claims Plan.
Proving Fault and Overcoming Comparative Negligence
Beyond No-Fault medical benefits, an injured e-bike rider can pursue a third-party pain and suffering lawsuit against the driver who hit them. However, insurance adjusters routinely attempt to shift blame onto e-bike riders, alleging excessive speed, failure to wear a helmet, or improper sidewalk riding.
Under Michigan's **modified comparative fault rule**, if a court finds you were more than 50% at fault for the crash, you are legally barred from recovering non-economic (pain and suffering) damages. At Shiraz Law Firm, we thoroughly investigate micro-mobility crashes by downloading e-bike onboard telemetry, retrieving traffic camera footage, and interviewing eyewitnesses to demonstrate that driver negligence was the primary cause of the collision.
Protect Your Rights After an E-Bike Collision
If you or a family member was injured while riding an electric bicycle in Michigan, do not let an insurance company dismiss your claim or misrepresent your legal rights. Contact Shiraz Law Firm today for a free consultation. We will ensure you receive the full No-Fault benefits and compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.
