One wrong turn, and your kid’s e-scooter ride becomes a trip to our emergency room. Parents rarely think about the danger when buying these zippy little scooters. They just see the excitement on their child’s face, not the broken arm that might follow.
We’ve reset enough broken bones and sutured enough lacerations to know that e-scooter safety isn’t just a suggestion. These lightweight machines can hit speeds that outmatch a child’s ability to react when something goes wrong.
While we’re ready to provide expert care when accidents happen, nothing beats prevention. Let’s talk about five common kids e-scooter injuries and what you need to know before the next ride.
Common Types of Kids E-Scooter Injuries
1. Head Injuries
Head trauma is the most dangerous and prevalent type of injury among children riding e-scooters. Whether it’s a mild concussion or a severe skull fracture, any impact to the head demands immediate medical evaluation.
Warning signs to look out for include:
- Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
- Nausea or vomiting after the incident
- Seizures or twitching
- Unusual drowsiness or confusion
- Sudden mood swings or behavioral changes
Emergency care for kids with head injuries often involves neurological assessment, CT scans or MRIs, and in severe cases, admission to a pediatric intensive care unit. At ER Mesquite, we prioritize quick triage and imaging to diagnose pediatric injuries before serious complications sets in.
2. Fractures and Broken Bones
Falls from e-scooters frequently result in broken bones and fractures, especially in the arms, wrists, and elbows areas kids instinctively use to brace themselves during a fall.
Common e-scooter fractures seen at ER Mesquite:
- Displaced fractures, where bones are misaligned
- Compound (open) fractures, where the bone pierces the skin
- Growth plate fractures, which can affect bone development in younger children
At ER Mesquite, we offer x-rays, casting, and stabilization on site. For complex cases needing surgery, we manage pain, immobilize the injury, and facilitate direct transfer to orthopedic specialists while keeping families informed throughout the process.
3. Lacerations and Road Rash
Without protective clothing, children are highly susceptible to road rash, abrasions, and deep cuts. These pediatric injuries often occur on exposed areas like the knees, elbows, and shins.
Many lacerations and road rash cases require:
- Thorough wound cleaning
- Tetanus boosters
- Sutures or surgical closure for deeper lacerations
Wearing long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes can significantly improve e-scooter safety and reduce the severity of these injuries.
4. Dental Injuries
A sudden stop or fall can cause a child to fall forward, leading to dental trauma. Broken, chipped, or avulsed (knocked-out) teeth are common.
Depending on the severity, treatment may involve:
- Emergency reimplantation of permanent teeth
- Stitches for lip or gum lacerations
- Follow-up with a pediatric dentist or oral surgeon
These kids e-scooter injuries can have long-term implications for speech and dental health, making timely emergency care essential.
5. Internal Injuries
Though less common, internal injuries from e-scooter accidents are among the most critical. High-speed collisions, especially with vehicles or hard surfaces, can result in damage to internal organs.
Potential internal injuries include:
- Internal bleeding
- Lung contusions
- Abdominal organ trauma (such as liver or spleen damage)
Children showing signs of abdominal pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness after a fall should be brought to ER Mesquite immediately. Evaluation often includes blood work, ultrasound, and CT scans, followed by surgical consultation if needed.
E-Scooter Safety Tips for Kids and Parents
To reduce the risk of kids e-scooter injuries, follow these safety measures:
- Always wear a certified helmet (CPSC or ASTM)
- Use additional protective gear like knee and elbow pads
- Adhere to manufacturer age guidelines (typically 12+)
- Choose scooters with speed limiters or set speed restrictions
- Never allow double riding on a single scooter
- Avoid riding during low-visibility conditions
- Supervise younger riders, especially in high-traffic areas
- Teach hand signals and road awareness
- Establish clear rules about where riding is permitted
- Inspect scooters regularly for loose parts or brake issues
The first ride after purchasing e-scooter is often when accidents happen, so take extra precautions during this learning period. For more comprehensive outdoor safety guidelines, read our article on staying safe during outdoor activities.
Why Are Kids So Vulnerable to E-Scooter Injuries?
Children face higher risks on e-scooters for several clear reasons:
- Developing Motor Skills: Kids haven’t mastered the quick decision-making needed to avoid obstacles or navigate turns at speed.
- Resistance to Safety Gear: Many children skip helmets and pads, often due to peer pressure or discomfort. This single choice dramatically raises injury severity when accidents happen.
- Deceptive Speed: Standard e-scooters reach 15+ mph, which is fast enough for serious injuries that children rarely anticipate.
- Minimal Supervision: Parents sometimes treat e-scooters like traditional scooters, missing the crucial speed difference and allowing rides in unsafe locations.
At our ER, we’ve treated numerous preventable injuries that happened when these factors combined.
What’s Driving the Popularity of E-Scooters Among Kids?
E-scooters have quickly become a favorite pastime for after school excitement and weekend adventures. Promoted as environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and simple to use, these scooters are often marketed directly to families without enforcing strict age limitations.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises against children under 16 using motorized scooters, highlighting the elevated risk of injuries. Nevertheless, many young riders below the recommended age continue to use them regularly.
What’s driving their popularity?
- Easy Accessibility: Retailers have made them readily available for purchase.
- Tech Fascination: Kids are captivated by their sleek designs and impressive speeds.
- Social Influence: Riding e-scooters has become a popular group activity and a way to bond with peers.
However, this surge in popularity has coincided with a worrying rise in emergency room visits involving kids e-scooter injuries.
Research presented at the 2023 AAP National Conference & Exhibition in Washington, DC, revealed a 71% increase in e-scooter injuries over the study period. Teenage boys accounted for the majority of these incidents, highlighting the risks tied to this trend.
Recognizing When to Seek Emergency Care for Kids
Parents should be vigilant and know when an accident warrants a visit to the ER.
Signs of serious injury include:
- Vomiting or loss of consciousness
- Severe pain, swelling, or excessive bleeding
- Difficulty moving a limb
- Confusion or slurred speech
It’s important not to ignore potential internal injuries or concussions, as symptoms may develop later.
How ER Mesquite Helps in Kids E-Scooter Injuries
In the event of an accident, timely and professional care is critical. Our ER facility is equipped to handle pediatric emergencies, offering:
- Rapid triage and stabilization
- Advanced imaging like ultrasounds, X-rays, and CT scans
- Personalized wound care and pain management for kids
In severe cases, our team will facilitate transfer to orthopedic and surgical specialists to ensure your child recovers with minimal long-term impact.
FAQs
1. Should I buy my kid an electric scooter?
Only if they’re old enough, responsible, and always wear safety gear. We do not recommend electric scooters for kids under 12.
2. Are electric scooter batteries safe?
Yes, if used properly and from a reputable brand. Avoid damage, overheating, and off-brand chargers