HERSHEY, Pa. — A growing number of kids are ending up in the emergency room with serious injuries from e-bikes and e-scooters — and doctors say the trend is accelerating fast. At Penn State Health Children’s Hospital alone, clinicians have treated more pediatric e-scooter and e-bike injuries this year than in the previous three years combined.
“We’re seeing an alarming rise in severe trauma,” Dr. Bryanna Emr, pediatric trauma medical director said, urging parents to understand the risks before allowing children to ride.
The most severe e-scooter and e-bike injuries typically occur when children are struck by cars on main roads or sidewalks, often during school commutes or after dark, when visibility is poor, Penn State Health said. Distraction is also a major factor. Many riders wear headphones or look at their phones and miss oncoming traffic for crucial seconds.
Higher speeds also amplify harm, Penn State Health said. While speeds vary by model, many e-bikes and e-scooters can reach 20 mph or higher. Common injuries include life-threatening head trauma, broken ribs and legs, and internal bruising. Riders can also be hurt in collisions with other users or fixed objects, or from falls caused by potholes and uneven pavement — something small scooter wheels handle poorly. Less commonly, overheated batteries have caused fires and burns.
Safety tips for parents and riders
Experts at Penn State Health recommend several precautions to reduce the risk of injury:
- Wear a helmet. E-bike riders without helmets are nearly twice as likely to sustain head injuries as those who wear them, according to research published in JAMA Surgery. Helmets that cover most of the skull, similar to a motorcycle design, offer the best protection.
- Check equipment before riding. Make sure brakes and other components are in good working order.
- Stay visible. Use lights and wear reflective clothing, especially at night.
- Avoid distractions. Don’t use headphones or phones while riding, and slow down for obstacles.
- Monitor for delayed symptoms. After any crash, even a minor one, parents should watch for signs of concussion or internal injury, such as persistent headaches, nausea, vomiting or fatigue.
