Rad Power Bikes Facing New E-Bike Defect Lawsuit: What Riders Need to Know

E-bikes have surged in popularity, offering a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, recent legal actions against Rad Power Bikes highlight potential risks and underscore the importance of rider awareness. Did you know that e-bike injuries have been doubling every year, reaching 23,493 in 2022 alone? This article delves into the Rad Power Bikes defect lawsuit, providing riders with essential information to stay informed and safe.

Understanding the Rad Power Bikes Lawsuit

Rad Power Bikes, a prominent player in the e-bike market, is currently facing a class-action lawsuit concerning alleged defects in their e-bike design. The lawsuit, filed in September 2023, centers around claims that the company’s e-bikes have a “hazardous and patently unsafe design” that can lead to “catastrophic malfunctions.”

The core of the complaint focuses on the combination of the e-bikes’ heavyweight construction, a specific fork design, and the use of quick-release skewers on the front wheel. The lawsuit alleges that this combination can cause the front wheel to detach from the frame, especially during braking or at high speeds. One plaintiff reported being thrown over the handlebars when the front wheel of his RadRunner e-bike came off while braking to avoid a car, resulting in five broken ribs and a broken clavicle.

What are Quick Release Skewers?

Quick release skewers are a mechanism for securing the wheels to the frame of a bicycle. They consist of a rod that passes through the hub of the wheel, with a lever on one end that can be opened and closed to tighten or loosen the connection. While quick release skewers allow for easy wheel removal, if not properly tightened, they can pose a safety risk.

Specific Allegations and Models Involved

The lawsuit, Mason v. Rad Power Bikes, Inc. et al., specifically points to the potential for the front wheel to disengage due to the design. The plaintiff argues that Rad Power Bikes failed to adequately disclose the safety risks associated with their e-bikes before purchase. The suit also highlights the company’s marketing practices, which allegedly encourage parents to use these e-bikes with children as passengers, despite the purported safety concerns.

While the lawsuit doesn’t specify all models affected, the RadRunner is explicitly mentioned. It’s important for all Rad Power Bikes owners to be aware of these allegations and take necessary precautions.

RadWagon 4 Recall: A Precedent of Safety Concerns

This isn’t the first time Rad Power Bikes has faced scrutiny over safety issues. In November 2022, the company recalled approximately 29,300 RadWagon 4 Electric Cargo Bikes due to a potential fall and crash hazard. The recall was initiated because of misaligned rim strips on the tires, which could cause the tube to pop and damage the tire. Additionally, tires with a ribbed sidewall could unexpectedly go flat.

The company received 137 reports of tire issues, including eight injuries involving road rash, cuts, bruises, a broken wrist, and a broken arm. This recall underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive safety measures for e-bike riders.

What to Do if You Own a Rad Power Bike

If you own a Rad Power Bike, especially a RadRunner or RadWagon 4, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any updates regarding the lawsuit and potential recalls. Check the Rad Power Bikes website and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website for the most current information.
Inspect Your Bike: Regularly inspect your e-bike, paying close attention to the front wheel’s quick-release skewer. Ensure it is properly tightened before each ride. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult a qualified bike mechanic.
Check Tires: If you own a RadWagon 4, verify whether your tires were part of the 2022 recall. If so, contact Rad Power Bikes to schedule a free repair.
Consider Upgrades: Some riders are choosing to replace the quick-release skewers with thru-axles, which offer a more secure connection. Discuss this option with a trusted bike mechanic to determine if it’s right for you.
Practice Safe Riding: Always wear a helmet and follow traffic laws. Be extra cautious when braking, especially at high speeds.
Consult a Professional: If you have any concerns about the safety of your Rad Power Bike, take it to a qualified bike mechanic for a thorough inspection.

E-Bike Safety: A Broader Perspective

The Rad Power Bikes lawsuit highlights broader safety concerns surrounding e-bikes. As e-bikes become more prevalent, it’s essential to understand the risks and take appropriate precautions.

Increased Injuries: E-bike injuries are on the rise. A recent report from the CPSC indicated that micromobility-related injuries have been trending upward since 2017, increasing an estimated average of 23% annually.
Head Injuries: A February 2024 study reported a dramatic increase in e-bike riders with head trauma, attributing it to a lack of safety regulations like mandatory helmets and speed limits.
Battery Fires: There have been increasing reports of lithium-ion battery explosions in e-bikes, leading to fires. In 2023, New York City saw 267 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, resulting in 150 injuries and 18 deaths.

Legal Recourse for E-Bike Accidents

If you’ve been injured in an e-bike accident due to a defective product, you may have legal recourse. Product liability laws hold manufacturers responsible for dangerous designs, substandard materials, or improper assembly.

To pursue a product liability claim, you typically need to prove the following:

The defendant designed, manufactured, sold, or distributed a defective e-bike.
The defect caused your injury.
You suffered damages as a result of the injury.

Potential damages in an e-bike accident lawsuit can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

The Future of E-Bike Safety

As e-bikes continue to evolve, it’s crucial for manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and riders to prioritize safety. This includes:

Enhanced Safety Standards: Implementing stricter safety standards for e-bike design and manufacturing.
Improved Regulations: Enacting comprehensive regulations regarding e-bike speed limits, helmet use, and age restrictions.
Increased Rider Education: Providing riders with thorough education on safe e-bike operation and maintenance.

Have you Been Injured?

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defect or malfunction of an E-Bike, you should seek legal assistance. Contact our firm today for a free consultation.