The rapid rise of electric scooters and bikes in urban landscapes across the United States has brought with it an alarming surge in related injuries, according to a new study published in JAMA Open Network. Researchers from the University of California San Francisco have uncovered a stark contrast between the injury rates of these modern micromobility vehicles and their conventional counterparts, raising concerns about safety practices and infrastructure.
The study, which examined injury data from 2017 to 2022, revealed a staggering increase in e-bike and e-scooter injuries. While conventional bicycle injuries remained relatively stable at just under 2.5 million over the five-year period, e-scooter injuries skyrocketed from approximately 8,500 in 2017 to 57,000 in 2022. Even more dramatic was the rise in e-bike injuries, which jumped from a mere 751 in 2017 to nearly 23,500 in 2022. This represents a more than 30-fold increase for e-bikes and a six-fold increase for e-scooters.
The researchers attribute part of this increase to the explosive growth in micromobility vehicle usage, which has seen a 50-fold rise over the past decade. Companies like Bird, Lime, and various local bike-sharing programs have flooded cities with these electric alternatives, offering convenient and eco-friendly transportation options. However, the study suggests that the disproportionate rise in injuries cannot be explained by increased usage alone.
One key factor identified by the research team is the tendency for e-bike and e-scooter users to engage in riskier behaviors compared to riders of conventional vehicles. These behaviors include riding while intoxicated and forgoing helmet use. Additionally, the study notes that these electric vehicles are more frequently used in densely trafficked urban areas, potentially increasing the risk of accidents and collisions.
Adrian Fernandez, chief resident with the UCSF Department of Urology and a member of the research team, emphasized the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. He acknowledged the health and environmental benefits of micromobility vehicles but stressed that structural changes must be implemented to promote safe riding. This call to action is directed not only at riders but also at city planners and policymakers who have the power to improve infrastructure and regulations.
The demographic shift observed in micromobility accidents further underscores the changing landscape of urban transportation. As e-bikes and e-scooters attract a diverse range of users, from commuters to tourists, the need for comprehensive safety education and awareness campaigns becomes increasingly apparent. The researchers suggest that these efforts should target both new and experienced riders, focusing on the unique characteristics and potential risks associated with electric vehicles.
Kevin Li, another member of the research team, highlighted the concerning trend of lower helmet usage among electric vehicle users compared to those riding conventional bikes. This disparity in safety practices, combined with the higher prevalence of risky behaviors like riding under the influence, paints a worrying picture of the current state of micromobility safety. The researchers hope that their findings will serve as a wake-up call, prompting both users and authorities to take proactive steps in enhancing the safety of these increasingly popular modes of transportation.
As of the latest market close, Bird Global Inc. (NYSE: BRDS) is trading at $1.18, down 5.6% on the New York Stock Exchange.
The stock is in a clear downtrend, trading below both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages. The MACD is below the signal line, indicating bearish momentum. Support levels are seen around $1.10, with resistance near $1.30. Fibonacci retracement levels suggest potential support at $1.15 and resistance at $1.25. The stock is trading near the lower Bollinger Band, potentially indicating oversold conditions. This downward trend reflects ongoing concerns about profitability and safety issues in the micromobility sector, as highlighted by the recent study on increasing injury rates.
