The Rise of Pediatric E-Scooter-Related Injuries: Risk Factors and Regulatory Considerations

Background

The increasing use of electric scooters (e-scooters) among children and adolescents has become an emerging pediatric public health concern. As e-scooter use has expanded, injuries among young riders have also increased, with fractures and head injuries representing important causes of emergency department visits. Modifiable risk factors, including helmet nonuse and alcohol or substance use while riding, may further contribute to injury risk. This review examines recent trends in pediatric e-scooter-related injuries and associated behavioral and safety risk factors, with particular consideration of the potential role of preventive regulations.

Methods

A review of recent peer-reviewed literature examining e-scooter-related injuries among children and adolescents was conducted. Studies using national injury surveillance databases and clinical data were evaluated for injury trends, mechanisms of injury, anatomic injury patterns, helmet use, and alcohol or substance involvement. Evidence regarding potential injury prevention strategies and regulatory measures was also examined.

Results

Recent U.S. data demonstrate a significant increase in pediatric e-scooter-related injuries. National surveillance data from 2014–2023 demonstrated an approximately 2.4-fold increase in the average annual number of pediatric injuries during 2021–2023 compared with 2014–2019. Falls were the predominant mechanism of injury, while fractures were among the most frequently reported diagnoses, and the head was the most commonly injured body region. Among cases in which helmet use was documented, the majority of pediatric patients were not wearing a helmet. Emerging national data also demonstrates an association between e-scooter-related injuries and alcohol or other substance use among adolescents.

Discussion & Conclusion

The increasing frequency of pediatric e-scooter-related injuries highlights an important and potentially preventable public health concern. Helmet nonuse and substance-associated riding represent modifiable risk factors that warrant greater attention in pediatric injury prevention. Although additional research is needed to determine the effectiveness of specific interventions, current evidence supports consideration of stronger safety measures, including helmet requirements, age restrictions, prevention of impaired riding, and improved rider education. Establishing and enforcing evidence-based regulations, together with community and clinical education, may help reduce preventable e-scooter-related injuries among children and adolescents.