The increasing popularity of e-scooters has brought with it a wave of safety concerns, highlighted by a recent incident in Costessey, where a young boy was injured in an e-scooter crash. This incident has prompted a local mother to urge other parents to “do their homework” on e-scooter safety before allowing their children to ride them. This article delves into the critical aspects of e-scooter safety, relevant laws, and the potential risks involved, providing a comprehensive guide for parents and riders alike.
Understanding the Risks
E-scooters, while convenient and fun, pose significant safety risks, especially for children and inexperienced riders. These risks can range from minor scrapes and bruises to severe injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and even fatalities.
Accident Statistics
Recent studies highlight the growing number of e-scooter-related accidents. In the United States, a study showed that e-scooter injuries rose by 45% between 2017 and 2022, with emergency room visits reaching approximately 209,600. The UK is also experiencing a rise in e-scooter incidents. In 2022, there were 1,402 collisions involving e-scooters in Great Britain. These statistics underscore the need for increased awareness and preventative measures.
Types of Injuries
E-scooter accidents often result in specific types of injuries. Head and facial trauma are particularly common, with a significant percentage of injured riders suffering severe head injuries. Upper limb fractures are also frequently reported, along with other injuries due to falls and collisions.
Factors Contributing to Accidents
Several factors can contribute to e-scooter accidents, including:
- Lack of Experience: Inexperienced riders, especially children, are more prone to losing control and getting into accidents.
- Riding on Uneven Surfaces: Cracks, bumps, and small objects on the road can cause a sudden stop, throwing the rider off balance.
- Distractions: Using mobile phones or listening to music while riding can impair a rider’s focus, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Riding Under the Influence: Operating an e-scooter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and reaction time.
- Riding with Passengers: E-scooters are designed for single riders; carrying a passenger increases the risk of losing control and collisions.
- Poor Maintenance: Faulty brakes, tires, or handlebars can lead to loss of control.
E-Scooter Safety: Essential Tips
To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to follow essential safety guidelines:
Always Wear a Helmet
Wearing a helmet is the most crucial step in preventing severe head injuries. It is recommended that helmets are worn at all times, regardless of the rider’s experience level.
Use Protective Gear
Beyond helmets, wearing additional protective gear, such as knee and elbow pads, can help reduce the severity of injuries from falls and collisions. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and gloves can also provide an added layer of protection.
Check the Scooter Before Each Ride
Before riding, always inspect the scooter. Ensure that the handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tires, and cables are in good working order. Checking for any damage can help prevent accidents due to equipment failure.
Test the Brakes
Make sure you know how to use the brakes and how long it takes to stop the scooter. Stopping distances can vary significantly between models, so getting familiar with yours is important for emergency situations.
Be Visible and Alert
E-scooters are small, quick, and often silent, making them difficult for others to see, especially in parking areas. It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and expect that vehicles and pedestrians may not see you. Use the bell or horn to alert others, and avoid making sudden, unpredictable movements.
Stay Focused
Avoid distractions while riding. Do not use mobile phones, listen to music, or engage in conversations that can divert your attention.
Ride Solo
E-scooters are designed for single riders. Avoid carrying passengers, as this can cause instability and increase the risk of accidents.
No Stunts
Avoid jumps and tricks that can damage the e-scooter and make it unstable. This poses a risk not only to the rider but also to others nearby.
Choose Safe Riding Locations
Be aware of where you can and cannot legally ride an e-scooter. Avoid riding on sidewalks, and always opt for bike lanes or roads where allowed.
Adhere to Speed Limits
Always ride at safe speeds, and be aware of posted speed limits. Avoid riding too fast, especially in crowded areas or when visibility is poor.
Slow Down on Bumps and Uneven Surfaces
When you have to ride over bumps, slow down and lean back. This can help prevent sudden stops and loss of control.
Experience Before Traffic
It is advisable to gain experience and confidence in a safe, controlled environment before riding in traffic.
No Alcohol or Drugs
Never operate an e-scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as this severely impairs judgment and reaction time.
Follow Manufacturer Directions
Always check the e-scooter’s safety information, such as weight and age limits, and adhere to the guidelines.
E-Scooter Laws in the UK
Understanding the legalities surrounding e-scooters is crucial, as they can vary significantly depending on where you are in the UK. Currently, privately-owned e-scooters are not legal to ride on public roads, cycle lanes, or pavements. The only e-scooters legally permitted on public roads are those part of government-approved rental schemes.
Where Can You Legally Ride?
Privately owned e-scooters can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission. Using them on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, and pedestrian-only areas is against the law.
Why are they illegal?
E-scooters are classified as motorized vehicles, and as such, they are subject to the same regulations as cars and motorcycles. This includes requirements for insurance, licensing, and registration. Since privately owned e-scooters cannot be insured, it is illegal to use them on public roads. If you are caught using a privately-owned e-scooter in public, the vehicle risks being seized.
Rental E-Scooters
Rental e-scooters are often part of government-approved trial schemes and are legal in specific areas, but they must comply with local regulations. This usually involves designated areas where they can be used and speed limits.
Calls for Legalization
There are ongoing calls from UK councils to make private e-scooters legal on public roads. However, until the laws change, it is essential to adhere to current regulations.
E-Scooters and Children
The use of e-scooters by children is a significant concern. Most organizations recommend that children under the age of 16 should not operate or ride on e-scooters. The speed and potential for severe injuries make them particularly dangerous for young riders. Children are more likely to be involved in accidents due to their lack of experience, and it’s crucial that parents take extra precautions.
Recommendations for Parents
- Delay E-Scooter Use: Where possible, it is best to delay children using e-scooters until they are at least 16 years old.
- Educate Your Children: If you do allow your child to ride an e-scooter, make sure they are fully aware of the safety risks and how to ride safely.
- Supervise: Supervise your child while they are riding, and ensure they are doing so in safe locations and adhering to safety practices.
- Provide Protective Gear: Make sure your child always wears a helmet and other protective equipment.
- Set Ground Rules: Make sure your child is fully aware of the rules they need to follow when using the e-scooter.
Conclusion
The rise in e-scooter use has brought about a need for greater awareness and responsible riding practices. As the Costessey mum’s plea demonstrates, it is vital that both adults and children “do their homework” on e-scooter safety to avoid accidents and injuries. By understanding the risks, following safety guidelines, and adhering to the law, we can make e-scooter use safer for everyone. While e-scooters can be a convenient and fun mode of transportation, they must be treated with caution and respect.
