A Quick Guide To Electric Scooter Safety
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More and more kids in the suburban neighborhoods can be seen cruising along the city sidewalks on electric scooters. Electric scooters have become a top choice for transportation among the youths over the past few years.
The American Academy of Pediatrics says it is not recommendable for kids under 16 years to ride (operating) electric scooters because the machines can travel at speeds of up to 15mph, posing a risk to children, especially when they do not wear safety gears like helmets according to Greenelectricscooters. ie.
JAMA Network Open published a medical journal revealing the findings of a study of electric scooter-related injuries. The research suggested that scooter injuries were significantly more prevalent and severe than pedestrian or bicycle injuries, with 40% of the incidents being head injuries.
Why It Is Wise To Wear A Helmet
Parents who feel their kids are responsible enough to ride e-scooters must insist that they wear properly fitted helmets. The helmets lower the risk of traumatic head injuries during an accident.
Safe Kids Worldwide did a survey that found parents have fewer concerns about their kids riding an electric scooter than a bike and thus will not make their children wear a helmet. The risks are relatively the same.
Data gathered between 2008 and 2017 related to craniofacial injuries (face and skull injuries) among electric scooter riders shows significant evidence that it is less likely to happen if the rider wears a helmet. The data also shows that a higher percentage of the injured were children aged between 6 and 12.
While wearing a helmet is essential, ensuring that it fits properly is paramount if the helmet is to execute its function as required. To know that your child’s helmet fits properly, we recommend reading this blog, “Helmet 101: A Parent’s Guide.”
Must-Know E-Scooter Riding Safety
- Always wear a helmet when riding
- Wear knee pads, elbow, and other protective gear
- Ride solo since most models are not designed for two riders
- Avoid texting while riding
- Wear reflective gear when riding your scooter at night
- Stick to the designated bike lanes if they are available, and stay on the right side of the road
- Avoid riding on sidewalks, paths, or parks so that you do not bump into pedestrians
Final Thoughts
For most kids, electric scooters are fun toys, more so when everyone else has one. However, it is best to encourage and insist that your children wear helmets and other protective gear if they are under 16 years. Riding the foot-powered models can also be a form of exercise for the little ones.