The popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters has notably increased among children and teens, giving rise to significant public health concerns due to the resultant serious injuries. As pediatric orthopedic surgeons, we have observed firsthand the alarming trends that accompany their widespread use. While traditional bicycles and scooters allowed for some common injuries, the higher speeds associated with e-bikes and e-scooters have meant that accidents can lead to much more severe outcomes.
Data from U.S. emergency departments indicate a dramatic rise in injuries related to e-scooters for individuals under 18 years old. An analysis of the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database revealed that 13,557 injuries were linked to e-scooter use among children over a two-year period. Specifically, injuries increased from 5,012 in 2020 to 8,545 in 2021, reflecting a 71% surge that signals a burgeoning public health issue.
The nature of injuries from e-bikes and e-scooters has evolved significantly. Traditional bike and scooter rides mostly resulted in scrapes or minor fractures. However, with street-legal e-bikes capable of reaching speeds up to 28 mph and personal e-scooters ranging between 15 mph and 50 mph, the resultant accidents are more severe and can lead to multiple traumas. Collisions may now resemble the injuries seen in car accidents, including complex fractures, concussions, and in extreme cases, amputations.
Understanding childhood development is crucial in this context. The adolescent brain matures in stages, with the emotional and reward systems developing faster than the areas responsible for impulse control and risk assessment. This imbalance is particularly pronounced during adolescence, making it difficult for teenagers to gauge risks accurately. As such, many adolescents might use these high-speed devices without fully appreciating the dangers associated with them.
Marketing strategies often target children and teens, emphasizing benefits like independence and mobility but omitting the potentially life-altering risks associated with high-speed motorized devices. Social media platforms are rife with content promoting e-bikes and scooters without highlighting their dangers. This raises concern about how marketing exploits the developmental vulnerabilities of young riders, pushing them to seek these devices despite the risks.
In response to the increasing injury rates, some states, like New Jersey, have recently implemented regulations requiring e-bike operators to hold a license, wear protective gear, and be at least 15 years old. These regulations signal a shift toward recognizing the risks associated with these devices and are crucial for safeguarding young users.
Parents and guardians also play a critical role in ensuring safe use of e-bikes and e-scooters. Just as they monitor children's use of social media, adults should take proactive steps to set clear boundaries around e-bike and e-scooter use. This includes agreements on safe riding practices, such as always wearing a helmet and avoiding distractions like earbuds while riding.
To further mitigate risks, society might consider implementing several measures:
As technology progresses faster than regulatory frameworks, it is crucial to act swiftly to implement safeguards and educate users about the risks associated with e-bikes and e-scooters. By supporting smart regulations and promoting responsible usage, we can harness these devices' benefits for mobility while minimizing the potential for injury among children and teens.