Extra children are using electrical scooters (e-scooters), however they arrive with critical security considerations.
In contrast to foot-powered scooters and bikes, e-scooters can attain speeds of 15-25 mph. Some may even go above 45 mph. This elevated velocity results in larger affect in crashes, leading to extra critical accidents. Like nationwide tendencies, we’re seeing an increase in fractures, head accidents and trauma to multiple physique system.
Why Are Electrical Scooters Extra Harmful?
- Excessive speeds – Sooner speeds imply larger drive in crashes, making accidents worse.
- Inexperience with site visitors legal guidelines – Tween and teenage riders lack the data of highway security and site visitors guidelines.
- Dangerous conduct – Younger riders are inclined to take extra dangers, akin to using with out helmets, ignoring site visitors indicators and carrying passengers.
The Beneficial Age for Using E-Scooters
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be a minimum of 16 years of age to journey an e-scooter. Children youthful than that lack the judgement and expertise to navigate site visitors safely. Research present that kids incur extra accidents than adults on e-scooters, and males greater than females.
Whereas e-scooters appear to be a enjoyable and straightforward means for teenagers to get round, the dangers outweigh the advantages. A foot-powered scooter will nonetheless get them the place they should go, and so they’ll get some train too!
Security Ideas for Riders of E-Scooters
If you happen to really feel like your children are accountable sufficient to journey an e-scooter, take these steps to cut back the chance of significant accidents:
- Set up clear guidelines – Set pointers on the place, when and the way they’re allowed to make use of the scooter.
- All the time put on a helmet – Helmets cut back the chance of head accidents in case of a fall or crash. The improve in head accidents reveals that children aren’t sporting them as a lot.
- Use correct footwear – Closed-toed footwear assist shield the ft and ankles from accidents.
- Experience alone – Carrying passengers can knock them off steadiness and improve the chance of crashes.
- Comply with site visitors legal guidelines – Riders ought to cease at cease indicators, yield to pedestrians, use bike lanes when obtainable, and look each methods when crossing streets.
- Know native guidelines – Many cities don’t enable using e-scooters on sidewalks attributable to security considerations with pedestrians.
- Keep away from distractions – No texting, utilizing cell telephones, or sporting earbuds whereas using. This could stop children from listening to site visitors.