The popularity of electric-powered scooters, bikes and hoverboards has grown in recent years – and so have the numbers of injuries and deaths linked to their use, according to a Consumer Product Safety Commission report.
Using 2017-2021 data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, researchers estimate that nearly 270,000 people were treated in ERs for injuries related to these popular modes of transportation. The annual number of injuries more than doubled to an estimated 77,200 in 2021 from 34,000 in 2017.
Meanwhile, the number of deaths each year steadily rose to 48 in 2021 from five in 2017. The researchers identified 129 deaths over the five-year study period.
CPSC tips for reducing your risk:
- Always wear a bicycle helmet.
- Before riding, check for damaged handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tires, cables and frame.
- See and be seen. Many micromobility products are small, quick and silent, making it difficult for others to spot you.
- Beware of obstacles. E-scooters have small tires, so objects and uneven surfaces can cause them to stop suddenly, throwing you off.
- Never ride if you’ve been drinking alcohol or using drugs.
- Follow all manufacturers’ directions and review the safety information.
Some of the reported injuries were caused by fires. The CPSC says to never charge lithium-ion batteries while you’re sleeping and use only the charger that came with your device.
