What types of injuries do e-scooter victims sustain? | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

Electric scooters, or e-scooters, have become a popular mode of transportation in urban areas around the world. While they offer convenience and a green alternative for short trips, they also pose certain risks, leading to a variety of injuries for those who ride them. E-scooter accidents can result from a range of factors, including rider behavior, road conditions, and vehicle malfunctions. Here are some of the types of injuries commonly sustained by e-scooter victims:

Head Injuries

Head injuries are a significant concern in e-scooter accidents, as riders are often not required to wear helmets. Traumatic brain injuries, concussions, skull fractures, and facial injuries can occur when a rider falls off an e-scooter or collides with another vehicle or object. Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of severe head injuries.

Fractures and Broken Bones

E-scooter accidents frequently result in fractures and broken bones. Common injuries include wrist fractures, forearm fractures, collarbone fractures, and hip fractures. The impact of falling off a scooter or colliding with obstacles can lead to bone fractures, which may require surgical intervention and extended recovery periods.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries are common in e-scooter accidents and can involve damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues. Sprains, strains, and contusions often occur when riders lose control of the scooter or are involved in a collision. These injuries can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

Road Rash and Abrasions

Road rash, also known as abrasions, is caused when a rider’s skin comes into contact with the pavement during a fall. Riders who are not wearing protective clothing, such as long pants and sleeves, gloves, and closed-toe shoes, are at a higher risk of sustaining road rash. These injuries can range from minor scrapes to more severe skin abrasions that require medical attention.

Cuts and Lacerations

E-scooter riders may suffer cuts and lacerations when involved in accidents. Sharp objects, debris on the road, or collisions with vehicles can result in cuts and wounds. Depending on the severity, these injuries may necessitate sutures or other forms of wound care.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Although less common, e-scooter accidents can result in spinal cord injuries, especially if riders are thrown from the scooter or impact the ground forcefully. Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering consequences, potentially leading to paralysis or long-term disabilities.

Internal Injuries

In high-impact accidents involving e-scooters and vehicles, riders can suffer internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. These injuries can affect organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys and may require emergency medical attention.

Dental Injuries

Facial injuries, including dental injuries like chipped or knocked-out teeth, can occur in e-scooter accidents when riders collide with objects or are thrown from the scooter. Protecting the face with a helmet can reduce the risk of such injuries.

Psychological Trauma

E-scooter accidents can also result in psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The emotional impact of a traumatic accident can be long-lasting and require therapy or counseling.

Fatal Injuries

In some cases, e-scooter accidents can be fatal, especially when riders are involved in high-speed collisions with vehicles or suffer severe head injuries. Fatalities highlight the importance of safe riding practices and the use of protective gear.

To minimize the risk of these injuries, e-scooter riders should prioritize safety by following these guidelines:

  • Always wear a helmet, even where not legally required.
  • Obey traffic laws and road regulations.
  • Ride in designated bike lanes or on roads when available.
  • Be cautious when riding in adverse weather conditions.
  • Avoid riding on sidewalks or pedestrian areas.
  • Inspect the scooter for any mechanical issues before use.
  • Avoid distractions, such as using a smartphone while riding.
  • Yield to pedestrians and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Ride at a safe and appropriate speed for the conditions.

It’s essential for e-scooter riders to exercise caution and responsibility to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, cities and municipalities may have specific regulations governing e-scooter use, so riders should familiarize themselves with local rules to ensure their safety while enjoying the convenience of electric scooters.