Injuries Associated With Standing Electric Scooter Use

Abstract

Key Points Question What are the types of injuries associated with standing electric scooter use and the characteristics and behaviors of injured patients? Findings In this study of a case series, 249 patients presented to the emergency department with injuries associated with electric scooter use during a 1-year period, with 10.8% of patients younger than 18 years and only 4.4% of riders documented to be wearing a helmet. The most common injuries were fractures (31.7%), head injuries (40.2%), and soft-tissue injuries (27.7%). Meaning In this study, injuries associated with electric scooter use were common, ranged in severity, and suggest low rates of adherence to existing regulations around rider age and low rates of helmet use.

Facing Facts: Facial Injuries from Stand-up Electric Scooters

“…Since their introduction to American public transportation in Southern California, SESs have increasingly gained public approval [5,[9][10][11]. This is largely due to the eco-friendly, convenient, and affordable nature of SESs.…”

“…Additionally, the ubiquitous availability of SESs in urban settings coupled with the ability to arbitrarily "park" SESs on sidewalks has catalyzed their acceptance in the public's view. However, with this increased availability and use, the presumed public safety hazard has gained substantial evidence due to nonadherence to traffic laws, helmet usage, age restrictions, and operation while intoxicated [5,[9][10][11]. The authors predict that as the popularity of SESs continues to rise, safety issues and injuries will also increase proportionally.…”

“…The results of our investigation validate those of recent SES trauma reports. The demographics have consistently shown a 50% -60% male predominance, with an average age of early-to mid-30s [5,[9][10][11]. Racial distribution has only been analyzed by Aizpuru et al, who reported a slight white predominance (54.8%) across a nationwide database system [10].…”

“…Racial distribution has only been analyzed by Aizpuru et al, who reported a slight white predominance (54.8%) across a nationwide database system [10]. Injuries have more frequently occurred during the afternoon and evening hours on weekends when SESs see the most use [5,9]. Although studies have reported rates of helmet use ranging between 0% and 6.3%, the true rate remains elusive, as all studies have been retrospective and have admitted varying degrees of incomplete documentation [5,[9][10][11].…”

“…Furthermore, the users sign an agreement stating they are ≥18 years old and will adhere to these rules. Diligent compliance of rules and regulations by operators is doubtful as observed by Trivedi et al, which subsequently raises considerable medical and safety concerns regarding their use [5].…”