Pediatric Electric Bicycle Injuries: The Experience of a Large Urban Tertiary Care Pediatric Hospital

Pediatr Emerg Care. 2020 Jun;36(6):e343-e345. doi: 10.1097/PEC.0000000000001395.

Abstract

Background: Electric bicycles (E-bikes) are one of a wide range of light electric vehicles that provide convenient local transportation and attractive recreational opportunities. The aim of this study was to report E-bike-related injuries in children presenting to a trauma center.

Methods: Retrospective observational study, from December 2014 to November 2015, which included all pediatrics patients admitted to the emergency department with an injury related to E-bike use, was performed.

Results: A total of 97 E-bike injuries presented to the emergency department during this period. Mean age of E-bikers was 13.7 years (range, 7.5-16 years). Injuries to the head and the upper and the lower extremities were the most common. Thirteen patients (15%) were admitted, and 4 underwent surgery.

Conclusions: Children are mainly injured as riders when using E-bikes. There is a need for regulation regarding the use of E-bikes to enhance the safety of both bikers and other road and pavement users.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Bicycling / injuries*
  • Child
  • Electric Power Supplies
  • Female
  • Hospitals, Pediatric
  • Humans
  • Israel / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tertiary Healthcare
  • Wounds and Injuries / epidemiology
  • Wounds and Injuries / therapy*