E-bikes differ in the way they work and it implies different insurance conditions. In terms of insurance obligations, you can distinguish between two types of e-bikes:
- Electrically assisted bikes;
- Bikes with starting assistance or with garage assistance.
Electrically assisted bikes
The electric power assist turns on after a few turns of the pedal and turns off if the person does not pedal.
These bikes are not subject to compulsory car insurance. Liability for this type of bike can be covered by civil liability family/private life insurance.
Bikes with starting assistance or with garage assistance.
A bike with power assistance is activated as soon as the pedal is pressed. Once moving, the bike can be ridden without the person pedalling.
A bike with garage assistance allows operation over a few meters.
The obligation to take out civil liability car insurance for this type of bike depends on its maximum speed:
- If the bike is driven by a mechanical force not exceeding 25 km/h, there is no insurance obligation. Liability for this type of bike can be covered by civil liability family/private life insurance.
If the bike is driven by a mechanical force which exceeds 25 km/h, there is an insurance obligation. In such cases, civil liability insurance must be taken out. If you are not insured for thee-bike, you risk serious consequences.