Moped and E-Bike Accident Injuries Surge in NYC: What Injured Riders and Pedestrians Need to Know

Spike in NYC E-Bike and Moped Crashes Raises Legal and Safety Concerns for Riders, Pedestrians, and Delivery Workers

Electric bikes and mopeds have transformed how people move around New York City. Whether it’s delivery workers racing to complete orders or commuters using shared mobility services, these two-wheeled vehicles are everywhere. But behind the convenience lies a growing safety concern.

According to the NYPD, moped-related deaths in July 2025 doubled compared to the same month last year, and e-bike collisions are rising at an alarming rate, up over 21% year-to-date. These numbers reflect a broader public safety issue, affecting not only riders but pedestrians, motorists, and delivery workers throughout the city.

When these accidents result in serious injuries or fatalities, victims and their families are often left with more questions than answers. Understanding your rights and the legal implications is critical in protecting your future after such a crash.

NYC Crash Statistics: A Surge in Two-Wheeled Danger

The NYPD’s most recent traffic data reveals some troubling trends:

• Moped fatalities doubled in July 2025 compared to July 2024.
• Motorcycle deaths jumped by more than 33% for the month.
• E-bike collisions spiked by over 21.5% year-to-date, representing a steep rise from just three weeks prior.

While the NYC Department of Transportation has pointed out that overall traffic fatalities are at a historic low, these increases in micromobility-related incidents suggest a growing problem that cannot be ignored.

Despite efforts under the Vision Zero initiative, reckless e-bike and moped operation continues to contribute to preventable injuries and deaths. Common issues include illegal parking, unregistered vehicles, speeding through bike lanes or sidewalks, and lack of enforcement in high-traffic neighborhoods.

Common Injuries in E-Bike and Moped Accidents

Victims of e-bike and moped collisions often suffer serious, life-altering injuries. Unlike traditional motor vehicles, these riders have minimal protection, and when crashes occur, especially at high speeds, the results can be catastrophic.

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Especially in riders not wearing helmets.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Can result in long-term disability or paralysis.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Arms, legs, hips, and ribs are frequently affected.
• Internal Bleeding or Organ Damage: Often missed immediately after impact.
• Severe Road Rash or Lacerations: Leading to infection or permanent scarring.

Pedestrians struck by mopeds or e-bikes may suffer equally severe trauma. Elderly pedestrians and young children are especially vulnerable.

Delivery Workers at Risk: Collision Hazards and Enforcement Concerns

A significant percentage of e-bike riders in New York City are delivery workers, often immigrants, who rely on these vehicles for their livelihoods. These individuals face an increased risk of injury for several reasons:

• Long hours on congested roads.
• Pressure to meet fast delivery times.
• Lack of access to safety training or protective equipment.

Since many of these workers use unregistered or modified vehicles, they are now under increased scrutiny following the NYPD’s Quality of Life initiative, which began in April 2025. In just a few months, the NYPD’s “Q-Teams” have confiscated 282 illegal mopeds, scooters, and e-bikes citywide.

Advocacy groups have raised concerns that this initiative may disproportionately affect immigrant workers, increasing their risk of confrontation with law enforcement and even immigration authorities.

Who Is Liable in an E-Bike or Moped Accident?

Determining liability in an e-bike or moped crash can be complicated. Unlike car accidents where the responsible party is often easier to identify, micromobility collisions may involve multiple potentially liable parties.

Liability may rest with:

• The rider who operated the vehicle recklessly or without proper registration.
• A third-party driver who hit the rider or forced them into another object.
• The vehicle manufacturer or distributor, if the accident involved mechanical failure or defective parts.
• A delivery platform, such as Uber Eats or DoorDash, depending on how the worker was classified.
• The city or property owner, if hazardous road or sidewalk conditions contributed to the crash.

Each case requires a careful investigation, including witness statements, video surveillance, police reports, and sometimes accident reconstruction experts to determine fault and secure fair compensation.

What Compensation May Be Available After a Crash?

Victims injured in a moped or e-bike crash may be eligible to pursue financial recovery for both economic and non-economic damages.

Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses (past, current, and future care).
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering.
• Loss of enjoyment of life.
• Emotional distress.
• Permanent disfigurement or disability.
• Wrongful death benefits for family members of deceased victims.

Prompt legal action is important, especially when dealing with insurance companies, delivery companies, or city agencies that may attempt to shift blame or delay payouts.

What Role Does Registration and Licensing Play?

Many mopeds and e-bikes on NYC streets are either unregistered or illegally modified. Under New York State law, Class A and B mopeds must be registered and require a driver’s license, while Class C mopeds and electric bikes have different requirements.

This legal gray area contributes to both enforcement issues and confusion when an accident happens. For instance, if a delivery worker was injured while operating an unregistered vehicle, the employer or app platform may try to deny responsibility.

Understanding these classifications is crucial for building a legal case and determining whether a rider was following state and local regulations at the time of the crash.

Legal Rights of Pedestrians and Other Crash Victims

Pedestrians and cyclists who are injured in moped or e-bike crashes have the same rights as victims of car accidents. If you were struck while walking on a sidewalk, crossing the street, or standing near traffic, you may be able to file a personal injury claim.

Even if the operator fled the scene, there may still be avenues to pursue compensation through city surveillance footage, witness testimony, or uninsured motorist coverage.

Timelines matter. New York’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years, but claims involving city-owned property or entities like the NYPD or DOT may have a much shorter notice of claim period, as little as 90 days.

Moped and E-Bike Accident Lawsuit FAQs

Can I file a lawsuit if I was hit by an e-bike or moped?
Yes. Whether you were a pedestrian, cyclist, or driver, if an e-bike or moped operator injured you through negligent or unlawful behavior, you may have the right to sue for damages. Your case will depend on who was at fault, the severity of your injuries, and the circumstances of the crash.

Are delivery workers eligible for compensation if injured on the job?
Possibly. If you work for a platform like Uber Eats or DoorDash and were injured during a delivery, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation or have grounds for a third-party personal injury lawsuit. However, some platforms classify workers as independent contractors, which may affect your claim.

What should I do immediately after a moped or e-bike crash?
Seek medical attention, call 911, gather witness information, take photos of the scene, and make sure a police report is filed. If possible, document any identifying details of the other party’s vehicle. Then speak to a personal injury attorney to review your legal options.

Can I still sue if the rider was unregistered or fled the scene?
Yes. Even if the vehicle was illegal or the operator fled, you may still recover damages through uninsured motorist coverage, city infrastructure claims, or other sources. A legal review can identify all possible avenues for recovery.

What types of injuries qualify for a lawsuit?
Lawsuits typically involve serious injuries such as head trauma, broken bones, internal injuries, paralysis, or injuries requiring surgery or long-term care. Emotional trauma and psychological impact may also be considered in your claim.

Injured in a Moped or E-Bike Crash? Call Parker Waichman LLP Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a moped or e-bike accident in New York City or anywhere in the United States, you may have a legal right to financial compensation. These accidents often involve complex liability issues, and acting quickly is critical to preserving your claim.

Parker Waichman LLP is a national product injury law firm helping victims of traffic-related injuries, including moped, e-bike, and delivery worker accidents. Our attorneys are available to discuss your case at no cost to you.

Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for your free consultation.