07/06/2026
šØ Attention Parents: E Scooters
What I would say about E Scooters if I wasnāt afraid to hurt your feelings-
As someone who has worked in the emergency department for several years, I feel compelled to share my experiences regarding e-scooter injuries, and why my children will never own one.
Over the years, I've witnessed a concerning number of injuries caused by e-scooter accidentsāranging from traumatic head injuries and road rash to fractures in the clavicle, arms, and legs. Whatās alarming is the speed at which these scooters can travelāoften reaching up to 20 mph. At these speeds, even a minor bump, pothole, or crack in the road can lead to significant trauma, not to mention the risk of colliding with a vehicle.
Children often lack the cognitive skills necessary to make safe decisions while navigating traffic. I've seen it in my own neighborhood, where young riders frequently zip through streets, sometimes without helmets or protective gear.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until at least age 16 for children to ride e-scooters. Why? Here are a few critical reasons:
- Severe Physical Trauma: Unlike bicycles, e-scooters lack stability, making them more prone to crashes that can lead to serious injuries, including skull fractures and traumatic brain injuries.
- Developing Cognitive Skills: A child's brain is still maturing, particularly the prefrontal cortex responsible for impulse control and quick reactions. This can impair their ability to navigate sudden hazards safely.
- Lack of Safety Awareness: Young riders often donāt recognize the dangers of intersections or may be distracted, putting themselves at risk.
As a healthcare provider, my goal is to provide awareness so that you have the information you need to keep your family safe. If you do choose to allow your children to ride these, please discuss with them the risks, make sure they wear safety gear and equipment and are aware of safety risks and traffic.
