The rising popularity of electric scooters and e-bikes has brought with it a significant increase in related injuries, according to a recent study by University of California San Francisco researchers. This surge in accidents underscores the need for improved safety measures as micromobility vehicles become increasingly prevalent in urban environments.
The study, published in JAMA Open Network, analyzed injury data from 2017 to 2022, comparing injuries from electric and conventional scooters and bikes. While conventional bicycle injuries remained relatively stable at around 2.5 million over the study period, e-scooter and e-bike injuries saw a dramatic rise. E-scooter injuries jumped from approximately 8,500 in 2017 to 57,000 in 2022, while e-bike injuries climbed from a mere 751 to nearly 23,500 over the same timeframe. This growth coincides with a 50-fold increase in micromobility vehicle usage over the past decade.
One contributing factor to the rise in e-scooter and e-bike injuries is rider behavior. The study found that riders of these vehicles are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as riding under the influence of alcohol or without helmets, compared to users of conventional bicycles and scooters. Furthermore, these vehicles are often used in densely populated urban areas, increasing the risk of collisions.
Adrian Fernandez, chief resident with the UCSF Department of Urology and a member of the research team, highlighted the demographic shift and the urgent need for added safety measures in a press release. While acknowledging the health and environmental benefits of micromobility vehicles, Fernandez emphasized the importance of structural changes to promote safer riding practices.
Kevin Li, another member of the research team, echoed this concern, noting the significantly lower helmet usage among electric vehicle users and the prevalence of risky behaviors.
The study’s findings serve as a call to action for both riders and authorities. Micromobility users are urged to prioritize safety by wearing helmets and avoiding risky behaviors such as riding under the influence. Authorities, on the other hand, need to focus on improving infrastructure and implementing regulations to ensure safer usage of these vehicles. This includes enhancing bike lanes, implementing speed limits, and promoting educational campaigns on safe riding practices.
The increasing prevalence of e-scooters and e-bikes presents both opportunities and challenges. While offering convenient and environmentally friendly transportation options, the associated risks must be addressed through a combination of individual responsibility and proactive safety measures. Only then can the full potential of micromobility be realized safely and sustainably.
