The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released the results of a study of e-scooter related injuries over the course of a 3-month period. The study took place in Austin, Texas in 2018 and detailed the rise of emergency room visits and how these vehicles have affected public health.
CDC Study Findings & Our Takeaways
- Nearly ½ (48%) of riders had injuries to the head, and less than 1% of riders wore helmets. Head injuries are preventable with a helmet. Many companies claim safety is their #1 priority but if this were true, wearing helmets would be required. These companies are fully aware their riders are suffering head injuries at an alarming rate. Not only should a helmet requirement be enforced by scooter companies, but cities and states should as well. Wearing a helmet may be the difference between life or death, which is why it is necessary to increase and improve educational messages emphasizing its importance.
- 1/3 of injured riders were injured during their 1st ride. Scooter companies must improve messaging about safe riding practices.
- Almost ½ of the injured riders reported sustaining a “severe injury.” The scooter injuries we encounter are, by and large, severe. Riders suffer not just from broken bones, but from shattered bones--requiring surgery with the insertion of hardware.
- 70% of riders received training on scooter use. This means almost 1/3 had no training, which is unacceptable!
- Over 1/3 of riders reported that speed contributed to their injury. Legislative action should be taken to cap the e-scooter speed limit to 10 mph.
- 50% of riders believed surface conditions such as potholes or cracks in the street contributed to their injuries. What makes electric scooters uniquely risky is their small, solid tires. These tires are not at all like bicycle tires in that they have no give, are not air-filled, and the tread is easily worn. Scooter companies should only use air-filled tires and ensure tires are regularly maintained or replaced when necessary.
Seeking a Tenacious & Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer in Santa Monica? Contact Us
If you or a loved one was injured in an electric scooter accident due to no fault of your own, we at McGee, Lerer & Associates want to help. Our Santa Monica legal team will fight tirelessly for your rights and the compensation you are entitled to. Allow us to advocate on your behalf with ease.
Schedule an initial consultation today. Call (310) 692-9582.