Surge in E-Bike and E-Scooter Injuries Among Children Raises Alarms

Emergency departments across the United States report a significant increase in injuries among children using electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters). At Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, medical professionals have treated more children for e-scooter and e-bike related injuries in 2025 than in the previous three years combined. This alarming trend raises critical safety concerns for parents and guardians.

According to Dr. Bryanna Emr, pediatric trauma medical director at Penn State Health, the majority of serious injuries occur when children are struck by vehicles while riding in high-traffic areas. Many accidents happen when children are commuting to school or riding after dark, making them less visible to drivers. “A lot of riders have headphones in or they’re trying to send a message on their phone, and they’re distracted,” Emr explains. “They’re not paying attention, and just for those 10 seconds, they don’t see the car coming.”

The risk is compounded by the speed of these vehicles, which can reach over 20 miles per hour. Emr notes that children can travel much faster on e-bikes and e-scooters than on traditional bicycles, resulting in more severe injuries. The most common injuries include life-threatening head trauma, such as brain bleeding and skull fractures, as well as broken ribs, fractured legs, and bruised internal organs. Additionally, collisions with other riders or stationary objects, along with tumbles over potholes, contribute to the growing number of cases.

One particular concern with e-scooters is their small wheels, which struggle to navigate bumps effectively. Emr points out a less frequent but hazardous issue where e-scooter batteries can overheat and catch fire, posing a risk of burns.

In response to the rising injury rates, parents can take several precautionary measures. Understanding the legal framework is crucial; in Pennsylvania, e-scooters and e-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks, and e-scooters cannot operate on public roadways. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that children under the age of 16 should not operate such vehicles, a sentiment echoed by Emr, who warns that even some 16-year-olds may not be ready for the responsibility.

Parents should ensure their children are mature enough to avoid distractions, wear appropriate protective gear like helmets, and understand the rules of the road. “It’s basically like operating a small motorcycle,” Emr states, emphasizing the need for safety education.

Legislation is also in the works. A bill introduced in the Pennsylvania Senate in September 2025 aims to restrict children under 16 from operating e-scooters, mandate helmet use for riders aged 16 and 17, and implement a statewide speed limit. It would also limit riders to one per e-scooter and require them to follow the same traffic rules as cyclists.

Wearing helmets is essential for safety. Research published in JAMA Surgery indicates that e-bike riders without helmets are nearly twice as likely to sustain head injuries compared to those who wear them. Emr recommends helmets that provide substantial coverage, similar to motorcycle helmets.

Before each ride, parents should check that brakes and other parts are functioning correctly. Visibility is another key factor; using lights on the vehicles and wearing reflective clothing can make a significant difference, especially at night.

Staying alert is critical. Parents should advise their children to refrain from using headphones or looking at their phones while riding. Additionally, if a child experiences a crash, even a minor one, it is important to watch for signs of concussion or other injuries for at least 24 hours. Emr advises seeking medical evaluation if symptoms such as ongoing headaches, nausea, or vision changes occur.

Ultimately, while e-bikes and e-scooters may seem appealing, they carry a heightened risk of injury. “They look like a lot of fun,” Emr states, “but they come with a lot more responsibility and a higher risk of injury than people realize.”