E-bike injuries are on the rise across the US, with emergency rooms seeing more severe trauma cases. Researchers at NYU Langone Health found that injuries involving e-bikes and scooters accounted for nearly 7% of trauma patients admitted to NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue.

Study Findings

A study published in the journal Neurosurgery found that about one-third of patients treated for e-bike and scooter injuries suffered a traumatic brain injury. More than two-thirds of those patients required hospitalization, while roughly 30% needed intensive care.

The most common cause of injury was a crash involving a motor vehicle, accounting for about half of all reported cases. Researchers also found that helmet use remained low, with fewer than one-third of injured riders wearing helmets.

Doctors in other communities are also reporting an increase in e-bike-related injuries. In the Detroit area, emergency room physicians have seen more patients with injuries ranging from minor crashes to major trauma connected to electric bikes.

Safety Concerns

Some cycling advocates argue that infrastructure and driver awareness are also major parts of the safety discussion. John Hughes, a local bike shop owner, said the biggest danger remains conflicts between bicycles and vehicles.

Despite safety concerns, riders say electric bikes offer an affordable and efficient alternative to cars. E-bike commuter Cam Cason said using an electric bike for transportation saves money and provides convenience.

As injury concerns grow, some states and communities are considering new regulations. New Jersey recently enacted a law requiring e-bikes to be registered, with riders required to be at least 15 years old and have either a valid driver’s license or an e-bike license.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.