Growing numbers of e-bike and e-scooter battery fires are a cause for concern

In recent years, there's been a growing trend in the use of e-bikes and e-scooters. These vehicles offer a convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around, and their popularity has skyrocketed. 

However, there's a growing concern about the safety of these vehicles, particularly in relation to their batteries.

In the UK, there have been a number of high-profile incidents involving e-bike and e-scooter battery fires. In one case, a man was killed when his e-bike battery exploded while he was riding it. In another case, a woman was seriously injured when her e-scooter battery caught fire while she was charging it.

These incidents have raised concerns about the safety of e-bike and e-scooter batteries. There are a number of factors that can contribute to battery fires, including:

• Manufacturing defects: Batteries can be defective from the factory, which can lead to fires.
• Improper use: Batteries can be damaged if they are not used properly. For example, batteries should not be overcharged or discharged.
• Physical damage: Batteries can be damaged if they are dropped or if they come into contact with water.

How to stay safe

If you're an e-bike or e-scooter rider, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with battery fires. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Buy from a reputable dealer: Make sure to buy your e-bike or e-scooter from a reputable dealer. This will help to ensure that the vehicle is safe and that the battery is of good quality.
• Use the correct charger: Make sure to use the charger that came with your e-bike or e-scooter. Using an incorrect charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of a fire.
• Avoid overcharging and discharging: Do not overcharge or discharge your e-bike or e-scooter battery. Overcharging can damage the battery and increase the risk of a fire.
• Inspect the battery regularly: Inspect the battery regularly for signs of damage. If you see any damage, do not use the vehicle and contact the manufacturer.
• Keep the battery dry: Keep the battery dry. Water damage can damage the battery and increase the risk of a fire.

What to do if your battery catches fire

If you're involved in an e-bike or e-scooter battery fire, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. You should also contact the manufacturer of the vehicle and your insurance company.

If you've been injured in an e-bike or e-scooter battery fire, you may be entitled to compensation. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Additional risks

Here are some additional details about the risks associated with e-bike and e-scooter battery fires:

• Manufacturing defects: Batteries are complex devices, and even a small manufacturing defect can lead to a fire. In some cases, batteries have been found to be defective even when they are new.
• Improper use: Batteries can be damaged if they're not used properly. For example, batteries should never be overcharged or discharged. Overcharging can cause the battery to overheat and catch fire.
• Physical damage: Batteries can be damaged if they're dropped or if they come into contact with water. Physical damage can cause the battery to short circuit and catch fire.

Conclusion

It's important to note that e-bike and e-scooter battery fires are relatively rare. However, the potential consequences of a fire can be devastating. If you are an e-bike or e-scooter rider, it's important to take steps to protect yourself from the risk of a fire. By following the tips above, you can help to keep yourself safe.

Find out more about our expertise in supporting people following incidents involving e-scooters at our dedicated e-scooter injuries claims section. 

Fires sparked by faulty e-bikes and e-scooters have injured at least 190 people in the UK and killed eight, the Guardian can reveal, as a surge in public enthusiasm for battery-assisted travel is matched by a more than quadrupling in blazes since 2020.”