If you’re out on the road these days, you might notice more people zipping by on electric bikes, scooters and other electric rideables. They’re fun, fast and convenient ways to get around town. But along with the excitement comes risks.
Every year, more riders end up in the emergency room because of bike accidents, scooter accidents and other falls, many of which could be prevented.
If you ride, or have a child who rides, it’s important to understand how these devices work, how fast they can go and what injuries are common. We spoke with Melissa Luxton, a trauma outreach and injury prevention coordinator with Banner - University Medicine, to learn more about staying safe while enjoying e-bikes and e-scooters.
What are electric rideables?
An electric rideable covers a wide range of personal mobility devices. These include:
- Electric bicycles (e-bikes): Bikes with a battery-powered motor. Some require you to pedal for the motor to help and others are activated with a throttle or twist grip.
- Electric scooters (e-scooters): Two-wheeled stand-up scooters powered entirely by a motor or battery.
- Hoverboards: Self-balancing boards you stand on with no handlebars.
- Onewheels: Boards with a single wide wheel, steered by leaning.
Personal rideable speeds can vary, ranging from around 10 to 20 mph for standard models to over 40 mph for high-performance models.
Common injuries from electronic rideables
Accidents can happen to even the most careful riders. But e-bikes and e-scooters are sending more people to the ER than regular bicycles and kick scooters. Even something as simple as a pothole or crack in the street can send someone flying.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), injuries from e-bikes, electronic scooters, hoverboards and onewheels have been steadily increasing and more riders are seeking emergency care every year.
“The most common injuries we see are fractures, especially to the wrist, arm and collarbone, traumatic brain injuries and facial trauma,” Luxton said. “Riders often try to catch themselves during a fall, which leads to broken bones in their hands and arms. Without helmets, even low-speed crashes can cause concussion and more serious brain injuries.”
Other injuries include:
- Road rash
- Dental injuries
- Internal trauma
Why children and teens are at higher risk
Electric scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards may look like toys but they’re not designed for children.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), kids under 16 years old shouldn’t ride motorized scooters or e-bikes. And for good reason.
“Children’s balance, coordination and judgment, especially when it comes to speed and traffic awareness, are not yet fully mature,” Luxton said. “They’re also more likely to take risks, ride without helmets or underestimate how fast these devices can go.”
Many models can reach speeds faster than most parents realize. That extra speed, combined with limited control, can make even a small crash more dangerous.
Common risky behaviors that cause crashes
Most electric rideable injuries aren’t freak accidents. They happen because of risky behavior or simple mistakes.
Luxton shared some of the biggest red flags:
- Riding at night without lights or reflective gear
- Carrying passengers on single-rider devices
- Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Ignoring traffic rules or riding against traffic
- Looking at phones, listening to music or speeding on uneven surfaces
“These devices may seem simple but they’re powerful,” Luxton said. “A split second of inattention can lead to serious injury.”
How to decide if your child is ready to ride
Not every teen or tween is ready to handle an electric ride. Before handing over the handlebars, consider both age and maturity level.
As a parent, here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Does my child follow safety rules consistently?
- Do they have good coordination and balance?
- Can they judge distance, speed and traffic safely?
- Do they understand that these are motorized vehicles, not toys?
“Parents should also review the manufacturer’s age and weight limits,” Luxton said. “Many e-bikes and scooters are designed for riders 16 and older and several municipalities and states prohibit kids under 16 from using them on public roads.”
If a crash happens
Accidents can happen even when you’re careful.
“If someone crashes, first check for serious injuries (especially head trauma, heavy bleeding, or loss of consciousness) and call 911 if needed,” Luxton said. “Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a healthcare provider. Concussions and internal injuries aren’t always obvious right away.”
She also recommends reporting the crash to the rental company or manufacturer to help track safety issues or equipment defects.
10 E-riding safety tips for everyone
Whether you’re a first-time rider or a parent teaching a teen, these steps can help prevent injuries:
- Always wear a helmet: Wearing a helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injuries. The AAP and CPSC recommend helmets for all riders, regardless of age, for any device that can reach high speeds. “The key is using the right helmet, one that’s certified and designed for the specific activity,” Luxton said. “Helmets should fit snugly, sit level on the head and have the chin strap fastened. A loose, unbuckled helmet offers little to no protection, even in a minor crash.”
- Wear closed-toe shoes and visible clothing: Closed-toe shoes provide better foot protection and grip. Wearing bright or reflective clothing makes you more noticeable to others, especially at night or in bad weather.
- Avoid distractions: Keep both hands on the handlebars and eyes on the road. Do not look at your phone.
- Follow traffic laws: Ride in designated bike lanes whenever possible and follow all traffic signals.
- Inspect your device: Before riding, check tires, brakes and battery charge.
- Ride alone: Unless the device is built for two passengers, never allow more than one rider. Extra passengers increase the chance of a crash.
- Ride during daylight: If you do ride at night, use proper headlights and brake lights.
- Check speed caps: Some models allow you to set the limit for how fast you can go. This is a good option for children and teens.
- Control your speed: Even if your e-bike or scooter can go fast, ride at a pace you can manage.
- Model good behavior: When parents wear helmets, kids are more likely to do the same.
“At the end of the day, these devices can be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around but safety must come first,” Luxton said. “A few simple precautions can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a serious injury.”
Takeaway
Electric scooters, e-bikes and other rideables are great for commuting and recreation but they do carry risks. Remember to ride responsibly, take time to teach your kids and wear the right gear. Your safety and theirs is worth it.
