A major new study has found that e-scooter riders are significantly more likely to suffer severe traumatic injuries than motorcyclists or cyclists, with brain injuries occurring at 3.5 times the rate of motorcycle riders. The research, led by surgeon David Bodansky and published in August 2026, analyzed data from 15,247 patients in the National Major Trauma Registry, including 580 e-scooter riders, over 7,000 motorcyclists, and 7,740 cyclists.
Key findings on injury risks
The study revealed that e-scooter users were 3.5 times more likely to sustain a brain injury, 1.5 times more likely to injure internal organs, and 3.2 times more likely to damage arteries or veins compared to motorcyclists. In contrast, cyclists faced lower risks: 1.7 times for brain injury, 1.4 times for internal organ damage, and 1.7 times for vascular injuries.
These statistics underscore the heightened danger of e-scooters, which have become increasingly popular across UK cities through government-backed rental schemes. However, the study also found that fracture risk for e-scooter riders was 20% lower than for motorcyclists and 10% lower than for cyclists, suggesting some variation in injury patterns.
Gender and age disparities
A separate analysis of over 23,000 self-reported collisions and near misses highlighted additional risk factors. Women riding e-scooters were found to be 2.1 times more likely to be seriously injured than men. Furthermore, 1 in 10 riders were children, who were also more susceptible to severe harm.
These findings raise concerns about the safety of e-scooters, particularly for vulnerable groups. The low rate of helmet use among e-scooter riders—just 5.9%—contrasts sharply with motorcyclists (75%) and cyclists (45%). Helmets are known to significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and long-term brain damage in the event of a crash.
Regulatory landscape and enforcement
In the UK, privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements, or parks. Only government-approved rental schemes, such as Voi, Bolt, and Neuron, are permitted for public use. Riders must be at least 18 years old and hold a provisional driving licence. Violations can lead to fines and confiscation of scooters.
As of July 2026, the Metropolitan Police had confiscated over 2,500 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters in London alone this year—double the total for all of 2025. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced in February that the government plans to introduce new regulations covering speed limits and safety features like lights and brakes.
Collision statistics and calls for action
Department for Transport data for 2024 recorded 1,312 collisions involving e-scooters across England, Scotland, and Wales. Of these, 306 involved only an e-scooter and no other vehicle, up from 284 in 2023. Casualties totaled 1,390 in 2024, compared to 1,387 the previous year. Six people were killed in e-scooter collisions in 2024, five of whom were riders.
Researchers emphasized the need for 'embedding rigorous public health evidence into forthcoming UK legislation' to minimize 'avoidable harm'. The study's authors noted that while e-scooter usage is increasing, there is still limited evidence about injury patterns, severity, and exposure-adjusted risk, calling for continued monitoring.
