Legal experts warn that victims injured by e-bikes could be missing out on compensation

In recent discussions with the MIB, Motor Insurers Bureau, Slater and Gordon has learned that the MIB may pay compensation in some e-bike injuries, or fatal, claims despite e-bikes not being considered as insured motor vehicles. A recent BBC report has uncovered the cost of damages paid out to people injured in the UK by e-scooters and e-bikes has reached more than £110 million. However, according to legal experts, this figure may underrepresent the true scale of eligible cases, with some injured victims deciding not to pursue a claim - even if they had every right to do so.

In the UK, an insured motor vehicle is a vehicle legally required to have motor insurance before a driver can use it, which includes motorcycles, vans or electric motorcycles. However growing confusion around compensation rights has meant that injured victims or bereaved families may be unaware they can make a claim.

This gap in awareness may also mean specialist services, such as family liaison officers working for the emergency services, may also be failing to signpost victims towards specialist law firms who can help them with legal claims.

With the total cumulative total paid out rising by 115% over the past 12 months, Slater and Gordon are encouraging people to be aware of their rights if they fall victim to such injuries. Matthew Tomlinson, head of serious injury (north), said: “Over the last few years, we have seen a clear increase in claimants seeking compensation for e-bike and e-scooter injuries, and we can only imagine this figure will increase as shown by recent statistics.

"It is a common misconception that compensation is unavailable because e-bikes are not generally treated as insured motor vehicles. In practice, that is not always the case.

“The bottom line is that if someone has been injured by an e-bike, they deserve the right to compensation and specialist support. These injuries can be life-changing, or even fatal. Therefore, compensation is essential towards recovery, rehabilitation or bereavement support.

“Anyone who is unsure should legal guidance to explore the options available and if they can pursue a claim.”