E-Bike Fires Surge in New York

If you ride an electronic bike, be careful: e-bike battery fires are on track to double in New York City this year. E-bikes are popular among delivery services today, but their batteries can cause lethal fires.

Dangerous batteries

E-bike batteries are lighter than other battery types. These lithium batteries “contain a flammable liquid that conveys electrical current through its power cells. If the battery shorts and overheats, the fluid can ignite, creating a powerful fire with plenty of fuel.” These fires burn at hotter temperatures and create significant amounts of smoke.

If your battery is damaged, refurbished or unusually cheap, you’re more likely to suffer a battery fire. Experts recommend charging your battery away from flammable items and extreme heat, and away from the main entrance to your home or apartment. It’s best not to leave the battery charging unattended, although that’s not always practical for workers.

Because weather conditions can affect battery life, e-bikes are particularly vulnerable to damage. Riders should plan to change out their batteries frequently. Unfortunately, quality batteries cost hundreds of dollars, tempting people to opt for a cheaper version.

What to do if you’re injured by an e-bike battery fire

If you were injured in an e-bike battery fire, you may be able to recover compensation from the responsible party. For example, a defective battery could form the basis of a products liability suit against the manufacturer. Alternatively, if you were injured in a fire caused by a negligent e-bike owner, you may be able to hold the owner responsible for your injuries.

Personal injury lawsuits allow the plaintiff to recover the costs of their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. The trusted personal injury lawyers at Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia, LLP will review your case and explain your legal options. Call today to learn more.