TENTH DAY OF OCT., 2021 (HealthDay News)

A rising number of Americans prefer using hoverboards, electric scooters, and electric bikes for mobility, yet many of them send them straight to the hospital emergency room.

According to a soon-to-be-released report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, injuries related to these so-called “micromobility goods” increased by 70% between 2017 and 2020. (CPSC).

As Americans return to work, school, and other activities, there is a correlation between that increase and increased use of these transportation alternatives.
Over 190,000 trips to American emergency rooms were caused by injuries caused by micromobility products between 2017 and 2020.
According to a CPSC press release, the numbers increased steadily from 34,000 in 2017 to 44,000 in 2018, 54,800 in 2019, and 57,800 in 2018.
A large portion of the increase was caused by e-scooters: 7,700 ER visits in 2017, 14,500 in 2018, 27,700 in 2019, and 25,400 in 2020.
The data revealed that in addition to the head and neck, arms and legs were frequently injured.
While noting that data is lacking, the commission stated that it is aware of 71 deaths connected to micromobility goods throughout the research period.

E-scooter, hoverboard, and e-bike risks are mostly caused by mechanical, electrical, and human factors. The CPSC is collaborating with ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to enhance voluntary product standards in an effort to lessen these risks.

The CPSC meanwhile urged users to take numerous precautions to safeguard themselves.
Always use a helmet when utilizing micromobility devices.

Additionally, inspect an e-scooter for damage before using it. The handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tires, wires, and frame are all subject to inspection. A lack of control brought on by damage can result in a crash.

Information about
More e-scooter safety tips products are available from the USCPSC.

SOURCE: News release, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, September 30, 2021

Richard Preidt
Copyright HealthDay 2021. Toutes droits réservés.

SLIDESHOW Referring to Slideshow