Doctors in the UK are urgently calling for tougher regulations on e-scooters following a significant increase in injuries among children, with nearly 500 casualties under the age of 16 treated across trauma centers in Liverpool, Manchester, and Sheffield. Many of these incidents involve privately owned e-scooters being used illegally on public roads, pavements, and footpaths.
The majority of injured children were between 10 and 13 years old, and nearly two-thirds were boys. The most common injuries were sustained by the riders themselves, primarily from falling off the e-scooter. Approximately 11% of incidents involved collisions with vehicles, which often resulted in more serious injuries. Arm and leg injuries were most frequent, followed by head and facial trauma.
While legal rental e-scooters require riders to be at least 16, hold a driving license, and come with insurance and speed limitations, the use of private e-scooters is described by some as unregulated. It is illegal to use private e-scooters on public roads and pavements in the UK, and helmet use is not mandatory nationwide, unlike in some other countries.
Researchers emphasized the need for clearer legal frameworks, stating that reporting accidents is crucial for policy changes. They also highlighted the responsibility of retailers to inform customers about the law and for policymakers to implement regulations such as speed limiters or mandatory helmet use. The Department for Transport acknowledged these findings and stated that new laws are being developed to ensure the safe and legal use of e-scooters, including consultation on helmet requirements.