E-bike: Do not underestimate the long braking distance
The number of e-bikes on Swiss roads continues to rise. With over 300 serious e-bike accidents, there was also a new high in this regard last year. One important cause is the unusually high speed that e-bikes reach compared to normal bicycles - this increases the braking distance. The BFU and AXA are therefore launching an awareness campaign.
©Depositphotos/Wadym
With the E-bike it's easy to ride, you move forward quickly. Whether going straight or uphill, the speed is often significantly higher than with a normal bicycle. The ease of progress is one of the reasons that these vehicles are becoming increasingly popular: Last year, every third bicycle purchased in Switzerland was an e-bike. Parallel to the sales, the number of e-bike accidents is rising: Last year, there was a new high of 12 fatalities and 309 serious injuries. Because with so much Tempo unfortunately also happen faster Accidents. In the event of a fall or collision, there is also a risk of more serious injuries.
Speed is a common cause of accidents
E-bikes reach around 45 km/h, depending on the strength of the pedal assistance. Not only is the speed higher than with a conventional bicycle: An BFU study shows that the accident risk per kilometer ridden is also higher. The study also shows that speed is one of the four most frequent causes of e-bike accidents - along with inattention/distraction, alcohol and poor vehicle operation.
This way you are safer on the road:
- Choose a suitable e-bike, ideally with ABS (seek advice before buying).
- Drive with foresight and adjust the speed
- Expect other road users to make mistakes (e.g., failing to yield the right of way or to
suddenly opening car doors)
- Wear a bicycle helmet to protect yourself from head injuries
- Make yourself visible at all times: drive with lights on during the day and wear a high-visibility vest
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