E-Scooter and E-Bike Warning

Daniel Rosenfield & Suzanne Beno, Injury Prevention Committee

As the summer sun blazes, e-scooters and e-bikes are the new go-tos for thrill-seeking kids and teens. These modern modes of transportation offer an exhilarating ride and an eco-friendly alternative to traditional vehicles; however, their surge in popularity among children has also led to a troubling increase in injuries.  

The number of collisions involving e-scooters and e-bikes spiked this summer. Indeed, children’s hospitals across the country have seen more injuries from these devices than ever before. Not only is the number of injuries up, but their severity too, with more kids being admitted to hospital and requiring surgery. Unfortunately, preliminary data has suggested limited helmet use in this population is also contributing to injury severity.  

E-scooters and e-bikes may seem like benign fun, but they come with their own set of risks. Unlike bicycles, these electric-powered rides can reach speeds that are too high for young riders to handle safely. The excitement of cruising at higher speeds, combined with the limited experience many kids have with these vehicles, can create a recipe for disaster. 

One of the most alarming trends is kids riding without helmets. Despite widespread awareness of their importance, helmets are often overlooked – particularly among younger riders who are more focused on speed and style than safety. Helmets are proven to reduce the severity of head injuries in a collision, and their absence dramatically increases the likelihood of serious injury. 

The statistics paint a concerning picture. Emergency rooms across the country are reporting a noticeable rise in injuries linked to e-scooter and e-bike falls and collisions. Kids are arriving with broken bones, concussions, and other trauma that could have been mitigated with proper safety measures.  

Several factors contribute to this dangerous trend. Some children and teens are riding on busy streets, weaving through traffic, and taking risks that even experienced riders should avoid. Others are simply unable to control the devices at significant speeds. And a general lack of experience using any scooter contributes to falls.   

Parents and guardians must take proactive steps to combat this growing problem. First and foremost, ensure that children wear helmets every time they ride an e-scooter or e-bike. Helmets should fit properly and be worn consistently—with no exceptions. Additionally, educating kids about the importance of safe riding practices is essential. This includes understanding the rules of the road, maintaining a safe speed, and being aware of their surroundings. Scooting/cycling in safe areas (protected bike lanes, quieter streets etc) is also important to safety. E-scooters in particular are illegal in many jurisdictions, and families should be aware of the rules in their communities.  

Communities and local governments also have a role to play. Increasing awareness about the risks of e-scooters and e-bikes, along with promoting helmet use, can make a significant difference. Schools and recreational programs should incorporate safety education into their curriculums, and parents should be encouraged to reinforce these lessons at home. 

The thrill of riding e-scooters and e-bikes doesn’t have to come at the cost of safety. As we continue to monitor injury trends, let’s make a concerted effort to protect our children. Helmets are a small investment that can save lives, and safe riding practices are a necessary part of every ride. By prioritizing safety, we can ensure that summer fun remains just that—fun, and free from preventable harm. 

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