E-Bike and E-Scooter (Micromobility) Safety

Micromobility devices like e-bikes and e-scooters are becoming increasingly popular, but they’re also leading to a significant rise in pediatric injuries. At Stony Brook Children’s Hospital Pediatric Trauma Center, we’ve seen a sharp increase in severe injuries related to these devices, many of which are more serious than traditional bike injuries.

Smiling child wearing a bike helmet sitting on a red bicycle outdoors near a chain-link fence and school building.

Fast Facts About Micromobility Injuries

Kids are at a higher risk. 
Children under 15 account for over one-third of all e-bike and e-scooter injuries nationwide.

Severe injuries are common.
These crashes often result in head injuries, internal trauma, and hospitalizations.

Many riders aren’t wearing helmets.
Studies show that many riders don’t wear helmets, increasing the risk of preventable head injuries.

Stony Brook Children’s Pediatric Trauma Center Data

Our data highlights the growing concern around micromobility injuries:

  • In 2025, micromobility injuries made up 30 percent of all pediatric trauma activations at our center.
     
  • From 2023 to 2025, micromobility-related admissions increased by over 2,200 percent.
     
  • By 2025, e-bike and e-scooter injuries became the number one cause of trauma-related admissions.

Why Are These Injuries So Serious?

E-bikes and e-scooters can reach speeds of up to 25 mph, significantly increasing the risk of:

  • Head injuries
  • Internal trauma
  • Severe, life-threatening injuries

Unlike traditional bikes, the higher speeds and motorized nature of these devices make crashes more dangerous.

New York State Laws for E–Bikes and E-Scooters

Understanding and following the law is critical for safety:

  • Minimum age: Riders must be at least 16 years old.
  • Speed limits: Devices cannot be operated on roads with speed limits over 30 mph.
  • Traffic laws: Riders must adhere to all traffic laws.
  • School restrictions: Many schools have banned e-bikes and e-scooters on campus to protect students and staff.
  • Device legality: Some devices marketed as e-bikes may actually be limited-use motorcycles and could be illegal to operate.

Safety Tips for E-Bike and E-Scooter Riders

Help prevent injuries with these essential safety tips:

  1. Choose Safer Options: Traditional bikes and scooters are always a safer choice.
     
  2. Wear a Helmet During Every Ride: A properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injuries by up to 85 percent.
     
  3. Use the Right Helmet: Standard bike helmets are only approved for speeds up to 14 mph. Use helmets designed for higher speeds.
     
  4. Follow Age Laws: Children under 16 should never operate e-bikes or e-scooters.
     
  5. Slow Down: Higher speeds increase the risk of severe injuries.
     
  6. No Passengers: E-bikes and e-scooters are designed for one rider only.
     
  7. Ride in Safe Areas: Avoid busy roads and intersections.
     
  8. Stay Focused: No phones, earbuds or other distractions while riding.
     
  9. Be Visible: Use front and back brake lights at night, though daytime riding is always safer.

Resources for Riders and Families

Child wearing a helmet riding a yellow bicycle outdoors.

Thinking About an E-Bike for Your Teen? Safety Facts You Need First

Electric bikes and scooters are more popular than ever. Your teenager might be begging for one to get to school, visit friends or just ride around the neighborhood. But before you make that purchase, we need to talk about safety.

Get more safety facts about e-bikes and e-scooters.

Back to Top