Some Illinois e-bike riders will need to carry insurance starting in 2027 under a law signed this week by Governor JB Prtizker.
The new law requires riders of e-bikes and e-motors capable of traveling over 28 mph to have a driver’s license, title, registration and insurance. Illinois joins New Jersey as the only states to require insurance for high-seed e-bikes.
Most states consider e-bikes to be in the same class of vehicles as bicycles, meaning riders don’t need to carry liability insurance, according to Progressive. Illinois Senate Bill 3484 draws a distinction between bicycles, lower-speed e-bikes and higher-powered e-bikes.
“As these high-powered devices become faster and more common on our streets and sidewalks, the stakes are simply too high to leave them unregulated and outpacing public safety,” Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said.
E-bikes have grown in popularity in recent years, leading to a rise in serious injuries. E-bikes have also led to a spike in claims involving battery related fire risks, according to Verisk.
The Illinois law prohibits e-bikes and micromobility devices such as e-scooters, electric skateboards and electric unicycles from operating on sidewalks, and prohibits them from operating over 28 mph on roads, bike lanes and bike paths.
The law also establishes minimum age requirements for riders of electric micromobility devices.
The law takes effect January 1, 2027.
Topics Illinois
