Electric Bike and Electric Scooter Injuries On the Rise
In recent years, emergency department visits due to accidents involving electric scooters and e-bikes have seen a dramatic increase, raising concerns about safety and infrastructure in the U.S. According to epidemiologists, the surge in injuries is directly linked to the growing popularity of these electric micromobility vehicles on the streets and sidewalks across the country.
Why the Increase in Injuries?
A recent analysis of hospital data revealed that emergency department visits related to e-scooters tripled between 2019 and 2022. Men were more frequently injured in e-vehicle accidents than women, and children and teenagers were the most likely to be under the influence of alcohol during these incidents. This trend is partly attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many people to seek alternative modes of transportation, including e-scooters and e-bikes.
The Impact of Alcohol and Drugs
Approximately 10 percent of micromobility injuries were associated with alcohol or a combination of alcohol and drugs. Children between the ages of 10 and 17 had significantly higher odds of emergency department visits due to alcohol-related incidents compared to adults under the age of 40. The impaired judgement, coordination, and balance caused by alcohol and drug use significantly increase the risk of injuries in these age groups.
Recommendations for Safety
One of the most alarming findings from the study was the lack of helmet use among riders. Head injuries were among the most common injuries reported, highlighting the importance of wearing helmets while using e-scooters and e-bikes. Public safety campaigns and local regulations promoting helmet use could help reduce the risks associated with these vehicles. Additionally, e-mobility companies are urged to take a more proactive role in encouraging riders to wear proper safety gear to prevent injuries.
As the popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters continues to grow, it is essential for infrastructure, safety regulations, and awareness about the risks of impaired riding to keep pace with the increasing use of these vehicles. By prioritizing safety and implementing measures to protect riders, we can work towards reducing the number of injuries associated with electric micromobility devices in the future.
