E-Bike Coverage Provides Protection Missing from Mainstream Policies

MANY PARENTS FAIL TO RECOGNIZE THAT E-BIKE USE CAN LEAD TO INJURY THAT MAY FALL OUTSIDE COVERAGE OF TYPICAL HOMEOWNER’S AND AUTO POLICIES. Municipalities in affluent coastal neighborhoods like Huntington Beach have e-bike training classes that offer safety information. So far, this has not been linked to requirements in securing e-bike coverage. But a thoughtful insurance broker promoting personal lines can position policyholders as better prospects for the burgeoning e-bike market insurance community. Mike McDonough (mike@mcdonoughins.com; 949-361-8471) can be contacted for additional details.

STANDARD AUTO POLICIES WILL ONLY COVER “MOTOR VEHICLES.” While few courts have addressed the issue, those that have have determined that e-bike’s do not qualify for coverage under that term. See, e.g., Gov't Emps. Ins. Co. v. Bermeo, 218 N.Y.S.3d 431, 433 (2024) (distinguishing e-bikes from motorcycles to conclude that the former is not a “motor vehicle”). There are a few insurers, such as Velosurance, offering policies specifically for e-bikes that include all the features you’re accustomed to finding in a typical Auto policy: repair costs, liability coverage, and even uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. E-bike accidents can result in critical injuries or even death, as in the recent case of Kolby Aipa who died earlier this week in Huntington Beach.

COVERAGE IS AVAILABLE AT REASONABLE PRICES. Some e-bike policies start as low as $12/year/e-bike. Physical damage deductibles range up to $500, and liability coverage typically spans from $25k-$100k. Prices obviously increase for greater coverage, but I can assure you these specialized policies are all much cheaper than trying to litigate coverage into existence under a typical Auto policy. The e-bike policies also come with roadside assistance and 24-hour emergency service.