More kids are riding electric scooters (e-scooters), but they come with serious safety concerns.
Unlike foot-powered scooters and bikes, e-scooters can reach speeds of 15-25 mph. Some can even go above 45 mph. This increased speed leads to greater impact in crashes, resulting in more serious injuries. Like national trends, we are seeing a rise in fractures, head injuries and trauma to more than one body system.
Why Are Electric Scooters More Dangerous?
- High speeds – Faster speeds mean greater force in crashes, making injuries worse.
- Inexperience with traffic laws – Tween and teen riders lack the knowledge of road safety and traffic rules.
- Risky behavior – Young riders tend to take more risks, such as riding without helmets, ignoring traffic signals and carrying passengers.
The Recommended Age for Riding E-Scooters
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids be at least 16 years of age to ride an e-scooter. Kids younger than that lack the judgement and experience to navigate traffic safely. Studies show that children incur more injuries than adults on e-scooters, and males more than females.
While e-scooters seem like a fun and easy way for kids to get around, the risks outweigh the benefits. A foot-powered scooter will still get them where they need to go, and they’ll get some exercise too!
Safety Tips for Riders of E-Scooters
If you feel like your kids are responsible enough to ride an e-scooter, take these steps to reduce the risk of serious injuries:
- Establish clear rules – Set guidelines on where, when and how they’re allowed to use the scooter.
- Always wear a helmet – Helmets reduce the risk of head injuries in case of a fall or crash. The increase in head injuries shows that kids aren’t wearing them as much.
- Use proper footwear – Closed-toed shoes help protect the feet and ankles from injuries.
- Ride alone – Carrying passengers can knock them off balance and increase the risk of crashes.
- Follow traffic laws – Riders should stop at stop signs, yield to pedestrians, use bike lanes when available, and look both ways when crossing streets.
- Know local rules – Many cities do not allow riding e-scooters on sidewalks due to safety concerns with pedestrians.
- Avoid distractions – No texting, using cell phones, or wearing earbuds while riding. This can prevent kids from hearing traffic.
