Pax Jolie-Pitt, 20, Hospitalized After E-Bike Crash

Pax Jolie-Pitt, 20, Hospitalized After E-Bike Crash

The Hollywood actors’ son had a close call with death on Monday in Los Angeles after the electric bike he was riding exploded, leaving many fans worried. A 20-year-old lost control and hit a car that was parked at the traffic light on the Los Feliz Boulevard around 5pm In that occasion, Pax was not wearing a helmet and he sustained a head injury on the incident thus had to be rushed to the hospital.

The accident may serve to remind riders and drivers to be more cautious on the roads especially those using the now popular electric bikes. As a result, it seems appropriate to discuss some of the basic issues connected with insurance of e-bikes and specific safety regulations.

Does an E-Bike Require Insurance?

Yes, in most places of the world including India it is compulsory to insure electric bikes. Both the Neville Armstrong and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 clearly indicate that electric bikes and scooters must have third party insurance cover.

• What It Covers:
  Third party insurance policy covers for injuries or damages to people other than policy holder or their property. Yet, it does not include the losses of your car in the accident. For enhanced coverage, you may require an “own damage” policy, or any other policy that is multiple policy.

Is a License Required for an Electric Bike?

Licensing requirements depend on the bike’s specifications:

• Bikes That Require a License:
  This mean that if the motor power exceeds 250 watts or if the speed is above 25 km per hour you will require a valid driving license.
• Exemptions:
  Those that are of low power and speed are capable of being ridden without the holder of the required license; ideal for new users.

Low-Speed Electric Vehicle Insurance

The low-speed electric vehicles are classified as those which have maximum speed of 25 km/h and have less than 250 watts of motor power: these vehicles do not require registration as well as insurance.

• Why Consider Insurance?
  Getting insurance may not be compulsory but is highly recommended to avoid scrambling looking for a solution when faced with a new legal claim or when stock gets damaged.

Which Insurance Is Best for an Electric Scooter?

The best insurance policy for your electric scooter depends on your specific needs. Here are the options:

1. Third-Party Insurance:
   • The party it pays when third parties sustain injuries or their properties are damaged.
   • Mandatory in many regions.
2. Own Damage Cover:
   • Offers security to your vehicle from theft, fire, accident or act of nature.
3. Comprehensive Insurance:
   • Provides afflicted third party and own vehicle damage in a package to give maximum protection.

Insurance for Electric Scooters Without Registration

Non-registered e-scooters are usually allowed only to low-speed ones. The insurance on such vehicles is not compulsory but some insurance companies offer third party liability on the vehicles as an extra precaution.

• Tips:
  Get in touch with your insurance companies to discuss policy options that may not exist for unlisted e-scooters.

Key Takeaway

Pax Jolie-Pitt’s accident is a wake-up call for everyone to ensure electric bikes are safe for its users. As simple as wearing helmets, or as complex as licensing and insurance issues, being knowledgeable can also minimize a rider’s risks. Ebike or escooter, it’s important to be aware of the state of insurance in order to ensure the safety of everyone out on the roads.