E-bikes, e-scooters and hoverboards have become increasingly popular. Many people enjoy riding these micromobility products for fun, and some prefer these devices due to their convenience and to save some money. However, it is crucial for micromobility users as well as drivers to understand traffic accident risks associated with these devices.
Sadly, motor vehicles collide with many e-scooter, e-bike and hoverboard users each year. When such a collision occurs, those riding micromobility products become particularly vulnerable and may suffer devastating injuries.
Data on micromobility accidents
The Consumer Product Safety Commission provides details on the prevalence of micromobility accidents. Between 2017 and 2021, accidents involving these products led to an estimated 267,700 emergency department visits. In 2021, an estimated 77,200 emergency department visits resulted from micromobility accidents, up from 34,000 during 2017.
In addition, recent years saw a significant increase in injuries involving e-scooters. Based on estimates, 7,700 emergency department visits resulted from e-scooter accidents in 2017, and this went up to 42,200 in 2021.
Micromobility accident risk factors
Many different risks can increase the chances of a micromobility accident. Inexperienced users can become involved in an accident, and many occur due to negligent drivers. For example, drunk, distracted and speeding drivers may hit someone riding an e-scooter or hoverboard. Potholes, busy traffic and poor visibility cause micromobility accidents, and some drivers can have an especially hard time seeing micromobility users due to the smaller size of these devices.
In the wake of a micromobility accident, it is essential for victims to review the details of the incident closely.