Three Teens Killed in E-Bike Crashes Raises Questions of Liability
E-bikes are a popular mode of transportation throughout New Jersey. However, recent tragedies in Scotch Plains and Cranford have highlighted the dangers of these motorized bicycles. Not only have these e-bike crashes devastated families, but they raise urgent questions about safety and the legal options available to the victims and their families.
Devastating E-Bike Accidents Claim the Lives of Three NJ Teens
Questions of safety and responsibility have re-emerged after two devastating e-bike crashes that claimed the lives of three New Jersey teens. The first occurred on September 24, 2025 when a 13-year old boy collided with a landscaping truck in Scotch Plains at the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Mountainview Afternoon shortly after 2 p.m.
The young boy was transferred to a local hospital where he died from his injuries. At the time of publication, an investigation is still ongoing. However, the driver of the landscaping truck has been cooperative with law enforcement.
Just a few days later on Monday, September 29, 2025, two teen girls were struck while riding their e-bikes in an apparent hit-and-run. The tragedy, which occurred around 5:30 p.m. near Burnside and Lincoln Avenues in Cranford, claimed the lives of the two girls, who died overnight of their injuries. The driver, who originally fled the scene, was later found and is currently in custody.
These stories are devastating, but also underscore a growing problem. While e-bikes may offer convenience, especially for those who do not have a driver’s license yet, they also bring risk that communities are not fully prepared to handle. Keegan Parkhill, a neighbor of the two teen girls, told Eyewitness News, “It’s extremely unfortunate that we have kids that are simply trying to walk in the neighborhood and have a nice time and ride a bike, but you can’t even do that anymore…”
Why E-Bike Crashes Are Increasing
E-bikes aren’t just heavier than normal bikes. They go faster, too. Depending on the class, e-bikes can reach top speeds of 28 miles per hour.
While rider inexperience could account for some crashes, the reality is that most New Jersey neighborhoods lack the infrastructure needed to ensure the safety of e-bike riders. Without proper bike lanes, riders may be forced onto dangerous roadways, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Other factors contributing to the increase of e-bike accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Instead of looking at the road and their surroundings, drivers are texting, changing the radio, or communicating with passengers.
- Traffic congestion: With major cities like New York City less than an hour away from Cranford and Scotch Plains, streets may be unusually congested compared to other towns in New Jersey.
Who’s Liable in a New Jersey E-Bike Accident?
Following an e-bike accident, those involved often have questions about liability. The truth is that who can be held responsible depends on the details of the case. Possible parties include:
Drivers
Drivers owe a duty of care to those around them. If they breach this duty of care by drinking, texting on their phone or running a red light, they may be held liable.
E-Bike Manufacturers
The manufacturer of the e-bike may also be liable for an accident and subsequent injuries if their product was defective. For example, if the e-bike had a defective motor that caused the accident, they would be held liable under product liability law.
Municipalities
In some cases, municipalities may share responsibility for e-bike accidents if they failed to repair a missing sign or tend to poor road conditions.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can investigate the details of your case to determine where liability falls and help you pursue the compensation you need for your or your child’s injuries. Compensation may cover economic damages, including surgery and ongoing physical therapy, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life.
FAQs About E-Bikes and Personal Injury Claims
What Makes E-Bikes More Dangerous Than Regular Bikes?
There are many reasons why e-bikes are more dangerous than regular bikes, including heavier weight, higher speeds, and rider inexperience. In addition to these elements, poor road design may cause drivers to struggle to see them on the road until it’s too late.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?
In New Jersey, you have two years from the date the e-bike accident occurred to file a personal injury claim. However, if a municipality is responsible for the accident, the timeframe is much shorter and you only have 90 days to file a notice of claim.
Contact Drazin and Warshaw to Discuss Your E-Bike Accident Claim
Because e-bikes lack the protection compared to cars and trucks, the injuries riders experience are often severe and as the cases mentioned above highlight, sometimes catastrophic. If you or your loved one was injured while riding an e-bike, you don’t have to navigate what lies ahead alone. The personal injury lawyers at Drazin and Warshaw will investigate the details of the crash, hire accident reconstructionists, speak with insurance companies on your behalf, and walk you through the process so you have clarity.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Call us today at 732-333-8141 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We represent families in Red Bank, Old Bridge, Elizabeth, Linden and throughout New Jersey.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.
