E-Bike and E-Scooter Injuries Among Kids
For many children and teens, e-bikes and e-scooters are more than a fun way to get around. They’re a convenient way to visit friends, get to school, head to the beach or simply enjoy some independence. But as their popularity grows, so does a troubling concern: more young riders are ending up in emergency rooms with serious injuries, reported a recent article in USA Today.
New research examining more than 12,000 emergency room visits nationwide between January 2023 and May 2026 found that e-bike and e-scooter injuries among children and adolescents increased by 671 percent during that period. In other words, the injury rate was about 7.5 times higher in May 2026 than it was in January 2023.
And it isn't just the number of injuries that's concerning. The severity of some of those injuries is increasing, too.
Head Injuries Are a Major Concern
More than one-third of the young patients included in the study suffered injuries to the head or neck, making them the most common type of injury. Nearly 7 percent suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). A traumatic brain injury can range from a mild concussion to a life-threatening injury. Depending on its severity, a TBI can result in symptoms and complications that last for weeks, months or even longer. Other common injuries involved the wrists, arms and shoulders – areas that take the impact when a rider falls or is thrown from a bike or scooter.
These findings are an important reminder that an e-bike or e-scooter may look like a relatively harmless recreational device, but riders can be traveling at significant speeds and may be sharing the road with cars and other vehicles.
Why Are E-Bikes and E-Scooters Different?
Unlike a traditional bicycle, an e-bike has an electric motor that assists the rider while pedaling. Some models also have a throttle that can provide power without pedaling.
E-bikes are generally divided into three classes based on their motor capabilities and maximum assisted speed. E-scooters also vary in their speed and design.
For parents, the important takeaway is simple: Don't assume that because your child can ride a regular bicycle, they're automatically ready for an electric bike or scooter. The additional speed and weight can make these devices more difficult to control, particularly for younger or inexperienced riders.
How Parents Can Help Keep Kids Safer
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents consider a child's age, maturity and riding ability before allowing them to use an e-bike or e-scooter. The organization recommends that children ages 9 to 12 not operate products capable of traveling faster than 10 mph.
Most importantly, talk to your child about the risks. Make sure they understand that an e-bike or e-scooter isn't a toy and that a collision with a vehicle or a hard fall can have serious consequences.
What If a Child Is Injured?
If your child is involved in an e-bike or e-scooter crash, seek medical attention for any significant injury, particularly if there is a blow to the head or neck. Symptoms of a potentially serious head injury can include loss of consciousness, confusion, worsening headache, repeated vomiting, unusual behavior or difficulty staying awake.
If another vehicle was involved, it's also important to understand your legal rights. A serious accident can result in medical expenses, lost income for parents who must take time away from work, and other damages. If you suspect that negligence or a product malfunction played a role in the crash, consider speaking with a top Philadelphia motor vehicle accident law firm. Contact us to set up a time to meet at no charge to you and discuss your legal options.