Safety Concerns Grow as Crashes and Complaints Increase Across the City
E-bikes and e-scooters have become a common sight on Vancouver’s streets, sidewalks, and trails. What began as an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and fun way to get around has now sparked growing safety concerns among residents.
At a recent Vancouver City Council community forum, several residents urged the city to strengthen its rules and enforcement related to electric bikes and scooters. They described riders speeding through parks and neighborhoods, weaving around pedestrians, and ignoring basic traffic laws.
“I think it’s quite a safety hazard,” resident Mike Anderson told the council. “We’ve had some really close encounters with youth driving these things. They run 30, 35 mph through the parks, down the sidewalks.”
According to The Columbian, local law enforcement has responded to multiple e-bike crashes this year, including two fatal incidents. The Vancouver Police Department says reports of reckless or unsafe riding have increased, prompting questions about what the city can—and should—do next.
E-Bikes and E-Scooters Fall Into Legal Gray Areas
Under Washington State law, e-bikes are divided into three classes based on how they operate and how fast they can go:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only; top speed 20 mph.
- Class 2: Motor can operate without pedaling; top speed 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph.
All classes can use designated bike lanes, and Class 1 and 2 e-bikes can generally go anywhere a regular bicycle is allowed, including sidewalks and shared-use paths. However, Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited from sidewalks and other types of shared pathways (such as trails) unless there is no safe alternative route, in which case riding on the sidewalk may be permissible.
In addition, Vancouver requires all bicyclists, including e-bike and scooter riders, to wear helmets in public areas. The city also prohibits reckless riding, which is defined as traveling at unsafe speeds, failing to yield to pedestrians, or performing maneuvers that endanger others.
Despite these rules, enforcement remains a challenge. E-bike and e-scooter riders are often young, unlicensed, and/or unaware of the distinctions between bike classes. Some ride on sidewalks or natural-surface trails where motorized vehicles are not allowed. Others modify their bikes to exceed legal speed limits, turning them into de facto motor vehicles without registering or insuring them.
Why Residents Are Calling for Stronger Enforcement
Community frustration has grown as residents report seeing high-speed e-bikes racing through quiet neighborhoods and public parks. Many parents are worried about children sharing sidewalks or crosswalks with fast-moving e-bikes. Others say they’ve narrowly avoided collisions while walking their dogs or pushing strollers.
Police spokesperson Kim Kapp noted that existing laws already prohibit negligent or unsafe riding, but enforcement is limited by available resources and how difficult it can be to stop and identify riders.
As a result, many residents want clearer city-level regulations and better education about where e-bikes and e-scooters can legally operate. Some have also asked for new signage and designated lanes to separate powered devices from pedestrians.
E-Bike Safety and Legal Responsibility
While e-bikes and e-scooters are treated differently from motor vehicles, riders can still be held legally responsible when their actions cause injury. In Washington, riding recklessly or too fast for conditions can meet the definition of negligent riding under state law.
If an e-bike rider strikes a pedestrian, for example, the injured person may have grounds to pursue compensation through the rider’s (or their parents’) homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, depending on the circumstances.
Similarly, if a defective e-bike battery or mechanical issue contributes to a crash, the manufacturer or distributor could be held liable under product liability law.
Although many people see e-bikes as recreational or low-risk, their increased speed and weight make collisions far more dangerous. Victims of e-bike crashes may suffer broken bones, concussions, or serious soft-tissue injuries, similar to those sustained in car or motorcycle accidents.
Balancing Accessibility and Safety
City leaders in Vancouver face a balancing act: encouraging sustainable transportation while protecting public safety. The popularity of e-bikes has grown dramatically in recent years, spurred by new state rebates and affordability programs.
In April 2025, the Washington State Department of Transportation began offering rebates of up to $1,200 for qualifying e-bike purchases, further fueling adoption.
While the program promotes cleaner transportation options, some worry that rapid growth has outpaced public awareness and infrastructure readiness. Without clearer local rules, conflicts between riders, drivers, and pedestrians are likely to continue.
Legal and Safety Tips for E-Bike and E-Scooter Riders in Vancouver
To stay safe and avoid potential legal problems, riders should remember a few key guidelines:
- Know your class.Understand whether your e-bike is Class 1, 2, or 3 and follow the rules for where it can operate.
- Wear a helmet.Vancouver law requires it for all riders.
- Obey speed limits and yield to pedestrians.Reckless or negligent riding can lead to citations or civil liability if someone is injured.
- Stay off natural-surface trails.Washington prohibits e-bikes of all classes on nonmotorized dirt or gravel trails unless otherwise posted.
- Supervise minors.Parents can be held responsible for a child’s reckless operation of an e-bike or scooter.
- Avoid tampering with speed limiters.Modifying an e-bike to exceed 28 mph can make it an unregistered motor vehicle, exposing riders to additional penalties.
Even when riders follow the rules, accidents still happen. Drivers who fail to yield, poor road design, or defective equipment can all contribute to serious crashes. Anyone injured in an e-bike or e-scooter collision should seek medical care immediately and document what happened.
When to Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney
Victims of e-bike and e-scooter crashes often face complicated insurance questions. Liability can depend on who was at fault, where the crash occurred, and whether the device is classified as a bicycle or motor vehicle under state law.
At The Scott Law Firm, PLLC, attorney Colin Scott helps injured riders and pedestrians understand their potential legal options after serious accidents. Colin has represented clients in cases involving e-scooters, bicycles, motorcycles, dog bites, and other personal injury claims across Vancouver and Southwest Washington.
By reviewing the facts, identifying available insurance coverage, and building a strong case, Colin helps his clients pursue full and fair compensation for their injuries.
What Vancouver Might Do Next
City of Vancouver officials are expected to review resident feedback and consider whether new ordinances or enforcement strategies are needed. Possible options could include:
- Limiting e-bike speeds in certain areas.
- Creating separate paths for motorized and nonmotorized users.
- Requiring visible registration or rider identification for higher-speed e-bikes.
- Expanding safety education in schools and bike shops.
Whatever changes come next, the city’s challenge will be balancing convenience and innovation with public safety.
Talk to a Vancouver Personal Injury Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been injured in an e-bike or e-scooter accident in Vancouver, WA or Southwest Washington, it’s important to understand your legal rights. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact The Scott Law Firm, PLLC for a free consultation. Attorney Colin Scott can review your situation, explain Washington’s liability laws, and help you explore your options for recovery.
"I highly recommend The Scott Law Firm to represent you. He is personal and professional and helped with my situation successfully. His attentiveness and experience will get you the results beyond your expectations." - Mike M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Web content is not legal advice. Using this website does not establish an attorney-client relationship. If you have questions about a legal matter, you should consult with an attorney who is licensed to practice law in the appropriate jurisdiction and is familiar with the facts in your situation. To learn more about how The Scott Law Firm, PLLC can assist you with a personal injury-related matter, contact our office today for a free consultation: (360) 718-3640.