E-Bike Safety: What Every Rider Needs to Know

E-bikes have made deliveries and other on-the-job travel faster and more efficient. But these bikes move faster than a standard bicycle and run on lithium-ion batteries, which can catch fire if damaged or mishandled. Understanding how to ride, charge and store your e-bike safely can help you avoid a serious injury or fire.

Safety Tips

• Wear a properly fitted helmet every time you ride.
• Inspect your e-bike before each shift. Check the brakes, tires, lights and reflectors, and confirm the battery is secure.
• Follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles and bicycles, including stopping at red lights and stop signs.
• Use bike lanes or paths where available, and ride with, not against, traffic.
• Slow down around pedestrians, in crosswalks and on sidewalks where riding is permitted.
• Signal your turns and check for traffic before merging or changing direction.
• Use front and rear lights and wear reflective or high-visibility clothing when riding at night or in low light.
• Adjust your speed to account for traffic, weather, pedestrian activity and road conditions.

What Not to Do

• Do not violate local rules for operating e-bikes.
• Do not exceed the manufacturer’s maximum speed or weight rating for your e-bike.
• Do not carry a passenger or extra cargo unless the e-bike is designed and rated for it.
• Do not use a phone, wear headphones or ride distracted.
• Do not weave between pedestrians or vehicles or ride against the flow of traffic.
• Do not modify the motor or battery to increase speed beyond the manufacturer’s rating.
• Do not ride an e-bike that has failed inspection or shows signs of damage.

Battery and Fire Safety

• Only use the battery and charger that came with your e-bike, or replacements approved by the manufacturer.
• Charge batteries in an open area away from exits, stairways and anything flammable. Never charge while you sleep or are away for an extended period.
• Unplug the charger once the battery is full. Continuing to charge a full battery increases the risk of overheating.
• Store batteries at room temperature. Keep them out of direct sunlight, hot vehicles and away from water.
• Stop using the battery immediately if you notice a change in shape, color or smell, unusual heat, leaking or smoking.
• Have repairs performed only by a qualified technician. Never attempt to open or repair a battery yourself.
• Never dispose of a lithium-ion battery in the trash. Take it to a battery recycling location or follow your employer’s disposal procedure.

In the Event of a Fire

• Leave the area immediately and get others away from the fire.
• Call 911. Lithium-ion battery fires burn extremely hot and release toxic smoke.
• Do not attempt to fight a lithium-ion battery fire yourself or move a burning e-bike.

Report any crash, near miss or injury involving an e-bike to your supervisor right away, even if it seems minor. Following these practices every time you ride helps protect you, your coworkers and everyone else sharing the road.

If your business relies on e-bikes for deliveries or other work travel, your Marshfield Insurance agent can help you review your commercial auto and liability coverage to make sure it fits how your team is actually getting around.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or legal advice. These guidelines do not supersede local, state or federal regulations. For further information, please consult a qualified professional. © 2026 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.