A new study is finding that an alarming number of young adults are winding up in the emergency room across the nation. And, this time, itβs not from e-cigarettes, itβs from e-scooters. These scooters have become quite popular over the last few years and, unfortunately, that means so have trips to the ER. One study found that the accident rate almost tripled between 2014 and 2018. With nearly 40,000 reported injuries associated with e-scooters, hospital admission skyrocketed by 365%. Common injuries included fractures like broken legs, broken wrists, and broken hands as well as cuts and bruises. But, about β of the accidents involved head traumas.
Electric Scooter Injuries
The main age for riders who become injured ranged from 18 to 34, with about β of the injuries befalling men. E-scooters can be a fun and convenient form of transportation, but the dangerous downside is the lack of regulation. While riders are legally required to wear helmets, many simply donβt. Iβm sure most people would agree with me that protecting your head should be a top priority. Preventing your brain from getting a concussion or some other bad injury is extremely important. So, make sure to wear a helmet and try these other tips while using e-scooters:
- Follow safety rules set out by the companies. Standard scooters are for solo riders, so make sure you arenβt riding tandem. And, of course, wear a helmet!
- Ride responsibly. Avoid excessive speeds, especially downhill. Be on the lookout for the safety of others in addition to yourself.
- Watch the road. Look out for uneven surfaces, rough terrain, and traffic. Make sure youβre paying full attention and not distracted by your phone or friends.
- Never drink and scoot. Just like driving a car or riding a bike, your judgment and reaction time is impaired under the influence of alcohol.
The bottom line is to know the safety guidelines, rules, and laws before getting on an electric scooter. Be extra careful, or you just might find yourself in the emergency room.
