A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has shed light on a concerning trend: a sharp increase in injuries related to electric bikes and scooters across the United States. The study, conducted by researchers who analyzed emergency department data, revealed that from 2017 to 2022, the number of e-bike injuries nearly doubled annually, climbing from 751 to 23,493. Concurrently, e-scooter injuries also surged by 45%, rising from 8,566 in 2017 to 56,847 in 2022.
Kevin D. Li, a co-first author of the study and a dual candidate pursuing medical and master’s degrees at the University of California San Francisco, emphasized the significance of these findings. He highlighted the imperative need for targeted safety measures and further research to address the escalating risks associated with the growing use of these electric vehicles.
The popularity of small, lightweight vehicles like e-bikes and e-scooters, often referred to as part of the “micro-mobility movement,” has soared in recent years due to their convenience, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. According to the National Association of City Transportation Officials, at least half a billion trips have been taken on these vehicles since 2010, with shared e-bike trips nearly doubling from 9.5 million in 2018 to 17 million in 2021.
The study not only pointed out the significant rise in injuries but also highlighted the risky behaviors associated with these accidents. Factors such as alcohol use, lower rates of helmet usage, and lack of protective infrastructure were identified as contributing to the mounting injury rates.
Experts attribute the surge in e-bike and e-scooter injuries to various factors, including the widespread availability of these vehicles, lack of rider training, high speeds leading to severe accidents, and inadequate road infrastructure. To address these concerns, they recommend public education campaigns, stricter safety regulations, and enhanced support for infrastructure development tailored to accommodate these evolving forms of micromobility.
In conclusion, while the study does not discourage the use of e-vehicles, it stresses the paramount importance of prioritizing safety. Education, responsible riding practices, and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with the increasing prevalence of electric bikes and scooters on roads and sidewalks.
The findings of this study underscore the urgency for proactive measures to ensure the safety of riders and other road users in the face of the growing popularity of e-mobility vehicles.
