Scooters, both manual and electric, are a popular way for kids of all ages to be active and get around. However, scooters can be dangerous when ridden around traffic or at a fast speed — especially e-scooters.

Data shows that e-scooter injuries are on the rise, especially in children.

  • Per the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database, there were 115,713 e-scooter juries in the U.S. in 2024 — up from 29,344 in 2020 and 64,312 in 2023.
  • Also per the NEISS, 23.24% of those who suffer e-scooter injuries are between the ages of 15 and 25. 
  • The NEISS reports that from 2023 to 2024, the number of e-scooter injuries in children under 15 rose by 116%, from 8,159 to 17,641.

Common injuries include cuts, sprains, and fractures of the wrist and elbow.

The most serious scooter-related injuries can damage the head. According to NEISS data, more than 18% of e-scooter injuries in 2024 involved head injuries. That's why, no matter what your age or experience level, you should always wear a helmet to protect your head from injury when riding a scooter.

Many scooter injuries are preventable if you follow some simple safety precautions. The following tips can help keep riders of all ages safe.

Tips for Parents

  • Only allow a child to use a scooter if they have demonstrated good judgment, strength, and coordination. Children younger than 8 years old should not use a scooter.
  • Check the height and weight restrictions for the scooter to make sure it is the appropriate size for your child.
  • Before allowing your child to ride, inspect the scooter for loose parts and ensure that the steering column and handlebars are locked into place.
  • Make sure your child has an activity-appropriate, properly-fitting helmet and wears it every time they ride the scooter. In fact, wearing a helmet should be a condition for the child to use the scooter.
  • Supervise children of all ages closely the first few times they ride. Younger children who ride should be supervised at all times.

Tips for Safe Scooter Use

  • When learning how to ride your scooter, practice in a safe, open area. Be sure you know how to steer properly and use the brakes.
  • Always wear protective gear when riding a scooter. This includes:
    • A properly-fitting, activity-appropriate helmet
    • Wrist guards
    • Knee and elbow pads
  • Wear sneakers or other close-toed shoes that will protect the tops and bottoms of your feet. Do not go barefoot or wear flip-flops.
  • Avoid riding in dangerous settings. Do not ride on slippery or uneven ground, on crowded sidewalks or streets, or downhill on steep hills.
  • Wear bright or reflective clothes and avoid riding at dusk or at night.
  • Make sure clothing fits snugly and that pants aren't too long. Loose fabric could get caught in the wheels. 
  • Do not do any jumps, tricks, or stunts.
  • Do not wear headphones while on the scooter. It is important to be able to hear the vehicles, people, and pets around you to avoid collisions.
  • Do not text or talk on the phone while on the scooter. If you have to read or send a text or make a call, stop the scooter in a safe area first.
  • Do not walk a dog while riding a scooter. If the dog starts running or tugs too hard on the leash, it can cause you to lose your balance and crash.
  • If you notice any damage to the scooter, do not ride it until you make sure the scooter is functioning properly and there's no risk of parts coming off during use.
  • Do not ride if you are taking medication or have a health condition that may cause seizures, dizziness/vertigo, or drowsiness.
  • Do not ride if you have an injury that affects your ability to stand, balance, hold onto the handles, or maneuver the scooter.