Riverside Community Hospital’s trauma center has seen a dramatic rise in electric bicycle and scooter injuries this year. The hospital recorded 189 cases so far in 2026, a 122% increase over the 84 cases reported in 2024. In 2025 the center treated 143 patients with similar injuries.
Doctors warn families of growing risks
“We are seeing the consequences of these crashes firsthand in our trauma center. E‑bikes and e‑scooters can reach significant speeds, and when crashes happen, the injuries can be serious,” said Dr. David Plurad of Riverside Community Hospital. “With more people using these devices, particularly younger riders, we want families to understand the risks and the steps they can take to ride safely.” He emphasized the importance of properly fitted helmets and strict adherence to traffic laws.
City council delays safety ordinance
The Riverside City Council this week postponed a vote on a proposed ordinance that would set new safety standards for e‑bikes and e‑scooters. Council members cited the need for further public input and coordination with state transportation agencies before moving forward.
Police reports and community complaints
According to the Riverside Police Department, 22 e‑bike crashes have been reported since Jan. 1, while hundreds of complaints involving the devices have been logged by residents. The volume of complaints reflects growing community concern about the speed and maneuverability of these vehicles on city streets.
Public‑health perspective
While no federal agency currently tracks e‑bike‑related injuries or deaths, medical groups such as the American College of Surgeons now label e‑bike crashes as an emerging public‑health threat. They point to rising intensive‑care admissions and cases involving internal trauma as evidence of the seriousness of the trend.
What families can do now
Trauma experts recommend that riders of all ages wear helmets that meet safety standards, avoid distracted riding, and obey all traffic signals. Parents are urged to supervise younger riders and to set clear rules about where and how these devices may be used.
Local officials and health professionals say that a coordinated approach—combining education, enforcement, and sensible regulation—will be essential to curb the injury surge and keep Riverside’s streets safe for everyone.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
