In recent years, injuries related to e-bikes and e-scooters in the U.S. have drastically increased. A recent study notes that from 2017 to 2022, e-bike injuries nearly doubled each year, highlighting a growing public health concern.
What are the most common injuries?
The most severe types of injuries often result from high-speed impacts or collisions with other vehicles. The study observed that:
- E-scooter riders are particularly prone to internal injuries, which can include damage to organs such as the liver, spleen and kidneys.
- Both e-scooter and regular scooter riders face significant risks of head injuries, especially if they are not wearing helmets. These can range from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries.
- Nerve damage can occur from falls or collisions, potentially leading to long-term issues such as numbness, weakness or chronic pain.
- Both groups are at risk for bone fractures, particularly in the arms, legs and collarbone. Regular scooter riders frequently sustain injuries to their upper extremities. These injuries often occur when riders try to break their fall with their hands, leading to fractures, sprains and dislocations.
Several factors can increase the risk of accidents and injury. Many riders lack proper training or instructions on how to use these vehicles safely. Moreover, e-vehicles can reach speeds up to 30 miles per hour, increasing the severity of accidents. In some areas, current infrastructure and transportation systems are not well-equipped to handle the new forms of micromobility.
Alcohol use is a major risk factor
Drinking alcohol significantly increases the risk of accidents for e-bike and e-scooter riders. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination and reaction times, making it harder to ride safely. This can lead to misjudging distances, speeds or the actions of other road users.
Alcohol also affects the central nervous system, reducing balance and coordination. This is especially dangerous for e-scooter and e-bike riders who need these skills to control their vehicles. Moreover, riders under the influence are more likely to take risks, such as speeding, ignoring traffic signals or riding in unsafe areas.
An e-bike accident can be just as serious as a car accident
Accidents can occur even if a person takes all the necessary precautions. If you get in an accident while riding your e-scooter, know you have the right to claim compensation for your injuries.