E‑bikes and e‑scooters driving surge in severe pediatric injuries, say pediatric surgeons

J. Todd R. Lawrence, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, and Madison A. Kesler, a research associate at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, note a rapid rise in serious injuries among children using e‑bikes and e‑scooters.

The authors observed that emergency departments across the United States are reporting more cases of life‑threatening trauma linked to these motorized devices, which accelerate faster than traditional bikes.

They explain that higher speeds give kids less time to react, resulting in more severe impacts. While acknowledging the environmental benefits of e‑bikes and e‑scooters, the piece warns that they now constitute a growing pediatric public‑health emergency.

The authors call for greater awareness and safety measures to protect young riders.