Background/aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the occurrence of injuries, especially dental trauma, in scooter-related accidents. In addition, children's habits of wearing protective gear were assessed.
Material and methods: The study was conducted in primary schools in three neighboring towns near Basel, Switzerland, using anonymous multiple-choice questionnaires completed by parents of schoolchildren.
Results: A total of 953 scooter riders were included in the study. The average age was 9.1 years (range 6-12 years). Of riders, 58.3% wore no protective gear, 39.6% wore a helmet, and 2% wore other protective equipment. Twenty-nine percentage of the children have sustained an accident while riding the scooter, of those injuries, 41.4% affected the lower extremities, 37.0% the upper extremities, 21.6% the head, and 11.2% dental injuries; 20.3% of accidents required medical treatment.
Conclusions: Parents, teachers, and doctors should be aware of the dangers involved in scooter riding. Educational measures, especially concerning use of protective gear, should be implemented to reduce the number and severity of injuries caused by this popular recreational activity.
© 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.