CLEVELAND — Electric scooters may be more dangerous than you think.
According to a new study, 'e-scooters,' typically found in city areas, can have a huge impact on the health and safety of riders and pedestrians.
The study examined E.R. visits related to scooter incidents between 2014-2018, and found that injuries increased by 222%.
Hospital admissions skyrocketed by 365% in regards to scooter and e-scooter accidents during the studied time.
“The study looked at the rates of injuries from electric scooters, and found that the rate of injuries nearly tripled in the last four years,” said Tom Waters, MD, of Cleveland Clinic, who did not take part in the study.
The most common injury-sites were patients heads and extremities, and the study found that the most common injuries were fractures, contusions, abrasions, and lacerations.
How does one avoid accidents? Dr. Waters says that one of the best tips is to know the rules of the road.
“Make sure that the area around you is clear; you’re watching traffic; for pedestrians, and I would also highly advise against operating these when you’re under the influence,” the Cleveland Clinic physician said.
Always make sure to take extra precautions and be safe when it comes to operating a piece of machinery, even if it's just a scooter.
