Gillette Children’s is urging families to take immediate precautions as serious injuries from electric bikes (e‑bikes) and electric scooters continue to rise among youth. Clinicians are treating a growing number of children with traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and other life‑altering trauma linked to high‑speed micromobility devices.
Recent data from the Regions Hospital Emergency Department in Minnesota shows a sharp increase in pediatric e‑bike and e‑scooter injuries over the past three years. E‑bike injuries rose from 2 cases in 2023 to 9 in 2024 and 18 in 2025. E‑scooter injuries increased from 20 in 2023 to 24 in 2024 and 35 in 2025. Many of these children require transfer to Gillette Children’s for intensive care and rehabilitation.
These devices are heavier and faster than traditional bicycles, and we’re seeing the consequences
Angela Sinner, DO, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physician, Gillette Children’s
This is not just a trend, it’s a growing public health concern, we’re seeing happen in real time in Minnesota. We are seeing more children with severe, preventable injuries caused by high speeds, lack of helmet use, and limited awareness of the risks.
Gillette clinicians emphasize that many of these injuries are preventable. Parents can significantly reduce risk by taking a few key steps:
Require a properly fitted helmet every time a child rides. Head injuries are among the most severe and most common in e‑bike crashes.
Ensure the device matches the child’s age, size, and abilities. Many injuries occur when kids ride adult‑sized e‑bikes or operate devices they cannot safely control.
Set clear rules around speed, riding conditions, and supervision. Treat e‑bikes as motorized vehicles, not toys—limit speed, prohibit tandem riding, and avoid busy roads or nighttime use.
E‑bikes and e‑scooters are heavier and significantly faster than traditional bicycles. Many models can reach speeds of 20–28 mph, and some modified devices exceed that. Children often lack the physical strength, judgment, and reaction time needed to safely operate them—especially in traffic or on uneven terrain.
(Newswise/VNJ)
