Surge in Popularity, Surge in DANGER: E-Scooter and E-Bike INJURIES SKYROCKET!
Electric scooters and bikes are taking over cities, but at what cost? Shocking new study reveals injuries skyrocketing – are you safe on the streets? 🚨 #News #Safety #Micromobility
The Hidden Dangers of Micromobility!
ST. PAUL, MN – Electric bikes and scooters, the trendy new way to zip around town, are becoming increasingly popular. But behind the scenes, a dark side is emerging.
According to the latest study from JAMA Network Open, injuries from these so-called “micromobility” devices are skyrocketing. The study shows e-bike injuries doubled every year from 2017 to 2022, while e-scooter injuries rose by a staggering 45%!
Alarming Injury Statistics
The numbers are shocking. E-bike injuries went from a mere 751 in 2017 to a whopping 23,493 in 2022. E-scooter injuries also surged, jumping from 8,566 to 56,847 in the same period.
Even traditional bike and scooter injuries saw significant numbers, though not as dramatic: traditional bike injuries dropped from 456,466 to 403,565, while traditional scooter injuries rose from 48,598 to 67,497.
The Dark Side of Convenience
E-bikes and e-scooters are marketed as the future of urban transportation, promising quicker commutes and eco-friendly travel.
Companies like Lime are pouring money into this sector, and sales of e-bikes are outpacing traditional bikes. They are particularly popular in congested cities where they can often outpace cars. But this convenience comes at a cost.
The study notes that the accessibility of these devices to older users is partly to blame for the increased injury rates. The median age of injured riders is climbing, indicating that older adults are particularly at risk.
A Call for Safety Reforms
As micromobility vehicles gain popularity, the rise in injuries is becoming a major concern.
The study’s authors emphasize the urgent need for safety reforms. They argue that as US cities adapt to these new modes of transportation, there is a critical opportunity to implement national changes in education, infrastructure, and legislation to prioritize safety.
This call to action highlights the pressing need to address the risks associated with the rapid adoption of micromobility devices.
The Future of Micromobility
While the benefits of micromobility—like reduced traffic congestion and environmental benefits—are undeniable, the increasing injury rates cannot be ignored.
As the transportation landscape evolves, it is crucial to balance innovation with safety. The findings from JAMA Network Open serve as a stark reminder that as we embrace new technologies, we must also address their potential dangers.
Stay tuned to JackAndKitty.com for more updates on the evolving story of e-scooters and e-bikes, and the ongoing efforts to make our streets safer for everyone.
Read the full report here.
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