Why Pediatricians Are Calling for Greater Education on the Risks of E-Scooters and E-Bikes

The rapid rise of electric scooters (e-scooters) and electric bicycles (e-bikes) has transformed how children and teenagers move through neighborhoods across Illinois. But with that convenience has come a troubling surge in pediatric injuries. A recent Daily Herald report highlights a growing concern among pediatricians: parents, children, and even communities are underestimating the risks associated with these high-speed devices. Medical professionals are now urging better education, stronger safety practices, and clearer regulations to prevent serious, and sometimes life-altering, injuries among young riders.

“Electric scooters and e-bikes are not toys, they are motorized vehicles capable of causing serious harm. When children are injured, it is often because the risks were underestimated or safety precautions were ignored. Families need to understand both the medical and legal consequences of these accidents.” – John J. Malm, Naperville e-bike accident attorney

A Surge in Pediatric Injuries Linked to E-Scooters and E-Bikes

According to various reports, pediatric emergency physicians are seeing a noticeable increase in injuries tied to e-bikes and e-scooters, particularly among teenagers.

Doctors report that as usage has risen, so too have emergency room visits:

Pediatricians are treating more fractures, head injuries, and internal injuries
Many of the most severe injuries occur in riders not wearing helmets
Some cases involve life-changing trauma, including brain injuries

Dr. Sadiqa Kendi noted a “significant rise” in injuries as more children adopt these devices, emphasizing that the trend has accelerated in recent years. This aligns with broader national data showing a sharp increase in micromobility-related injuries, especially among youth populations.

Why Pediatricians Are Raising the Alarm

Pediatricians are not simply reacting to an increase in injuries, they are identifying systemic issues that make these devices particularly dangerous for children.

1. Speed and Power Are Underestimated

Many parents and children fail to appreciate how fast e-bikes and scooters can travel:

Standard e-scooters can reach 20 mph
Some e-bikes can reach 28 mph or more

At these speeds, crashes resemble motorcycle or car accidents more than traditional bicycle falls.

2. Lack of Skill and Coordination

Doctors emphasize that younger riders often lack the physical and cognitive ability to safely operate these devices:

Limited braking awareness
Poor hazard perception
Inexperience navigating traffic

As one Illinois pediatric emergency physician explained, many children “don’t have the skills” or training to operate these machines safely.

3. Misperception of Risk

E-scooters are often viewed as toys rather than motorized vehicles. This misconception leads to risky behaviors such as:

Riding without helmets
Carrying passengers
Using devices in unsafe environments (sidewalks, crowded areas)

Troubling Safety Statistics

Data from Illinois and national studies reinforce pediatricians’ concerns about safety gaps and rising injury rates.

Helmet Use Is Alarmingly Low

A 2026 statewide survey from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital found:

Only 36% of parents require helmets for e-scooter use
Just 48% require helmets for e-bike riders
Among older children (11+), helmet use drops even further

Helmet use is critical, given that head injuries are among the most common and severe outcomes.

Injuries Are Increasing Rapidly

Research and regional reports show:

E-bike injuries are rising significantly year over year, especially among teens
Emergency departments have reported dramatic increases in scooter-related injuries, including concussions and fractures

Severity of Injuries Is Worsening

Doctors report seeing:

Skull fractures
Traumatic brain injuries
Facial fractures requiring surgery
Internal organ damage

These are not minor scrapes, they are injuries more commonly associated with high-speed collisions.

The Role of Parents and Caregivers

One of the most consistent messages from pediatricians is that parents play a central role in preventing injuries.

Key Responsibilities for Parents

Ensure children are age-appropriate riders
Require helmet use every time
Supervise early riding experiences
Educate children on traffic rules and braking distances
Avoid treating e-scooters as “toys”

Simply gifting a child an e-scooter without instruction or supervision can create significant risk.

Growing Calls for Regulation and Education

Across Illinois, municipalities and state officials are responding to safety concerns with new laws and initiatives.

Local Regulations Are Expanding

Communities have begun implementing:

Minimum age requirements (often 16 or older)
Helmet mandates
Restrictions on sidewalk use

Statewide Efforts Are Emerging

Illinois has launched initiatives focused on:

Public education campaigns
Standardized safety rules
Addressing high-speed “e-moto” devices

However, experts agree that regulation alone is not enough, education is essential.

Safety Recommendations from Pediatric Experts

Pediatricians recommend a multi-layered approach to reducing injuries.

Essential Safety Practices

Always wear a properly fitted helmet
Ride one person per device
Avoid distractions (no texting or headphones)
Use bike lanes when available
Learn braking distance and handling before riding in traffic

Training Matters

Doctors suggest that operating an e-bike or scooter should involve:

Instruction similar to driver education
Supervised practice
Understanding of traffic laws

Legal Implications of E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

As injuries increase, so do potential legal claims, particularly when negligence is involved.

Common Liability Issues

Drivers failing to yield to young riders
Defective or poorly designed devices
Lack of supervision by adults
Municipal failures to regulate or maintain safe pathways

In Illinois, injury victims, including children, may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Long-term disability
Rehabilitation costs

Frequently Asked Questions about E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

Q: Are e-scooters safe for children?

A: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under 16 should not use e-scooters, due to the risk of serious injury and lack of developmental readiness.

Q: What is the most common injury in e-scooter accidents?

A: Common injuries include:

Head injuries and concussions
Broken bones (especially wrists and arms)
Facial injuries
Road rash

Head injuries are among the most serious and preventable with helmet use.

Q: Do helmets really make a difference?

A: Yes. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of:

Traumatic brain injuries
Skull fractures
Fatal outcomes

Despite this, helmet use remains inconsistent among children.

Q: Who is liable if a child is injured on an e-bike or scooter?

A: Liability depends on the circumstances, but may include:

Negligent drivers
Property owners
Manufacturers
Supervising adults

An experienced Illinois personal injury attorney can evaluate the facts of the case.

Q: Are there laws regulating e-scooters in Illinois?

A: Yes, but regulations vary by municipality. Many areas now require:

Minimum age limits
Helmet use
Restrictions on where devices can be ridden

Contact the Top Illinois E-Scooter Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

The message from pediatricians is clear: without better education, injuries from e-scooters and e-bikes will continue to rise. These devices are fast, powerful, and widely accessible, but they are often used without proper training, supervision, or safety precautions.

Parents, communities, and lawmakers must work together to ensure that children understand the risks before they ride. Awareness, proper gear, and responsible operation can mean the difference between a fun ride and a devastating injury.

If your child has been injured in an e-scooter or e-bike accident, it is critical to understand your legal rights. The experienced Illinois injury attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case, protect your family’s interests, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery and accountability.