Electric bikes and electric scooters have become increasingly popular throughout Orange County and San Diego, especially among children and teenagers. From riding to school to meeting friends around the neighborhood, these motorized devices offer a convenient and exciting way to get around. However, as their popularity continues to grow, healthcare professionals are seeing a concerning increase in injuries associated with their use.
A new study published in November 2026 in the medical journal JAMA examined more than 13,000 young patients treated for bicycle, scooter, and skateboard injuries at six pediatric hospitals across the United States. Researchers found that electric bike injuries increased by 33% per quarter, while electric scooter injuries increased by 15% per quarter during the study period. More concerning, brain injuries were approximately twice as common among children injured on electric bikes and scooters compared with those using traditional versions.
Unlike traditional bicycles, electric bikes can reach speeds of 20 to 28 miles per hour, depending on the model. Some electric scooters can also travel at surprisingly high speeds. Combined with their additional weight and faster acceleration, these devices can be much more difficult for younger riders to control. Even a seemingly minor accident can result in significant injuries.
Some of the most common injuries associated with electric bike and scooter accidents include cuts, scrapes, bruises, sprains, broken bones, and head injuries. Road rash is particularly common when riders fall onto pavement, often causing painful abrasions that may require thorough cleaning and wound care. More serious accidents can result in concussions, facial injuries, fractures, and internal injuries, especially when a rider collides with a vehicle or falls at high speed.
One of the biggest concerns is head trauma. Even when a child appears fine immediately after an accident, symptoms of a concussion can develop over the following hours. Parents should watch for headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and unusual changes in behavior. Any suspected concussion should be evaluated by a medical professional, and the child should not return to riding until medically cleared. Severe headaches, repeated vomiting, seizures, worsening confusion, or loss of consciousness require immediate emergency medical attention.
Preventing these injuries starts with wearing the right protective equipment. A properly fitted helmet is essential every time a child rides a bicycle or scooter. For electric bikes capable of higher speeds, parents should consider helmets specifically designed and certified for those speeds. Additional protective equipment, such as knee pads, elbow pads, and closed toe shoes, can also help reduce the severity of injuries during a fall.
Parents should also understand that not every electric bike or scooter is appropriate for every age group. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages families to carefully consider a child’s age, maturity, coordination, and understanding of traffic safety before allowing them to operate an electric bike. Electric scooters also present significant risks for younger riders, and pediatric safety experts advise against their use by children under 16. California has specific rules regarding helmet use, age requirements, and where certain electric bikes and scooters may be operated. Families should become familiar with state and local regulations before purchasing or allowing their children to ride these devices.
Another important safety consideration is teaching children how to ride responsibly. Riders should obey traffic signals, remain alert at intersections, use designated bike lanes when permitted, and avoid distractions such as texting or wearing headphones. Carrying passengers on a device designed for one person can also affect balance and increase the likelihood of an accident.
If an accident does happen, knowing where to seek medical care is important. Minor cuts, abrasions, sprains, and certain suspected fractures may be evaluated at an urgent care clinic. Deep wounds, significant swelling, or pain that makes it difficult to move an injured area should also receive prompt medical attention. Serious head injuries, severe deformities, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing, or suspected internal injuries require emergency medical care.
At Marque Urgent Care, our medical providers can evaluate many common injuries associated with electric bike and scooter accidents, including minor wounds, sprains, and certain fractures. X-ray services are also available at select Marque locations throughout Orange County and San Diego, helping patients receive appropriate evaluation and treatment without an unnecessary trip to the emergency room when their condition can safely be managed at urgent care.
Electric bikes and scooters can be enjoyable ways for families to stay active and explore their communities, but they should never be treated as toys without risks. Taking the time to discuss safety expectations, choose appropriate protective equipment, and understand the dangers of higher speeds can make a meaningful difference.
Before your child heads out for their next ride, make sure they’re prepared. A helmet, responsible riding habits, and a little extra caution can go a long way toward preventing an unexpected trip to urgent care.
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