E-Scooter Injuries Linked to Substance Use

Substance Use Considerably Contributes to E-Scooter Injuries, UCLA Study Reveals

Analyzing data from 2016-2021, UCLA researchers discovered that a quarter of patients hospitalized for scooter-related injuries were under the influence of substances like alcohol, opioids, marijuana, and cocaine.The study, published in The American Surgeon, also indicated a more than eight-fold increase in scooter-related hospitalizations over the five-year period, from 330 to 2,705. Furthermore, individuals who had used substances faced nearly double the risk of experiencing traumatic brain injuries compared to unimpaired riders. This substance use also escalated hospital costs by an average of $4,600 per patient.

While the surge in e-scooter popularity has been accompanied by a rise in related injuries, the specific role of substance use in these incidents remained largely unexplored until now. Given the increasing prevalence of substance use among injured scooter riders,the study authors advocate for strategies such as mandatory helmet use,substance abuse prevention programs,and improved urban infrastructure to help reduce these injury risks.

“In today’s landscape of rapidly growing scooter use, our study highlights how substance use among riders has played a important role in the rise of severe, costly, and largely preventable injuries,” stated Dr. Areti Tillou, vice chair for education in the UCLA Department of Surgery and the study’s senior author. “as urban centers continue to expand shared micromobility systems, the growing prevalence of substance use among scooter riders raises serious concerns about rider safety. These findings underscore the urgent need to strengthen safety regulations, enforce helmet use, and reduce substance use among scooter riders to prevent injuries and promote safer, more lasting urban transportation.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the UCLA study find about e-scooter injuries and substance use?

The study found that 25% of patients hospitalized for scooter-related injuries in 2016-2021 had used substances like alcohol,opioids,marijuana,or cocaine at the time of their injury.

How has the number of scooter-related hospitalizations changed?

Hospitalizations for scooter-related injuries jumped more than eight-fold between 2016 and 2021,increasing from 330 to 2,705.

What is the impact of substance use on injury severity for scooter riders?

Riders who used substances were almost twice as likely to suffer traumatic brain injuries compared to those who were not impaired.

How does substance use affect the cost of scooter-related hospitalizations?

Substance use increased hospital costs by an average of $4,600 per patient.

What strategies are recommended to improve e-scooter safety?

The study recommends implementing helmet mandates, substance use prevention programs, and infrastructure improvements to mitigate injury risks.

What are your

What percentage of e-scooter riders involved in accidents have a blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeding the legal limit?

The Rising Trend of E-Scooter Accidents & Substance Involvement

electric scooters (e-scooters) have rapidly become a popular micro-mobility option in cities worldwide. though, alongside their convenience, a concerning trend has emerged: a significant link between e-scooter injuries and substance use, including alcohol and drug impairment. This article delves into the data, risk factors, injury patterns, and preventative measures surrounding this growing public health issue. We’ll cover topics like e-scooter safety,drunk driving alternatives,and substance-related accidents.

Understanding the Correlation: Data & Statistics

Emergency departments are seeing a surge in e-scooter related injuries. Studies consistently demonstrate a higher prevalence of substance use among injured riders compared to the general population.

Alcohol: Research indicates that approximately 20-30% of e-scooter riders involved in accidents have a blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeding the legal limit. This is a significant factor contributing to impaired judgment,reduced reaction time,and increased risk-taking behavior.

Drugs: While less frequently studied, the presence of illicit drugs and prescription medications that impair cognitive and motor skills is also being detected in injured riders. Cannabis, opioids, and benzodiazepines are among the substances identified.

Polysubstance Use: The most hazardous scenario frequently enough involves the combination of alcohol and drugs, amplifying the detrimental effects on riding ability.

CDC Data: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a substantial increase in e-scooter injuries between 2014 and 2018, with a notable percentage linked to impaired riders. https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/injurystatistics/e-scooter-injuries.html

Common Injury Patterns in Substance-Impaired E-Scooter Accidents

The types of injuries sustained in e-scooter accidents vary, but certain patterns are more common when substance use is involved. These injuries often result in significant healthcare costs and long-term disability.

Head Injuries: The most severe and frequently reported injuries.Lack of helmet use,compounded by impairment,dramatically increases the risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs),concussions,and skull fractures. Helmet laws are crucial in mitigating these risks.

Fractures: Broken bones, notably in the wrists, arms, legs, and ankles, are common due to falls. Impaired balance and coordination contribute to these injuries.

Lacerations & Abrasions: Road rash and cuts are frequent, especially in accidents involving collisions with vehicles or stationary objects.

Spinal Cord Injuries: Though less common, these are among the most devastating injuries, perhaps leading to paralysis.

Internal Injuries: Impacts can cause damage to internal organs, requiring immediate medical attention.

risk Factors & Vulnerable Populations

Certain factors increase the likelihood of substance-impaired e-scooter accidents.

Young Adults: Individuals aged 18-34 are disproportionately represented in e-scooter accident statistics, and this group also exhibits higher rates of substance use.

Nighttime riding: Accidents are more likely to occur during evening and nighttime hours, when alcohol consumption is more prevalent.

Areas with High Alcohol Availability: Cities with numerous bars and restaurants tend to have higher rates of e-scooter accidents involving alcohol.

Lack of Infrastructure: Insufficient bike lanes and designated e-scooter paths force riders to share roads with vehicles, increasing the risk of collisions.

Rental Scooter Programs: While convenient,rental scooters can contribute to impulsive riding decisions,particularly after consuming alcohol.

Legal Implications & Liability

Riding an e-scooter under the influence carries legal consequences, similar to driving a car while impaired.

DUI/DWI Laws: Many jurisdictions apply DUI (Driving Under the influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) laws to e-scooter riders. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

Civil Liability: Impaired riders who cause accidents can be held liable for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Scooter Company Liability: Rental scooter companies may also face liability in certain cases, particularly if they fail to adequately warn riders about the dangers of impaired riding. E-scooter regulations are evolving rapidly to address these issues.

Prevention Strategies: Reducing the Risk

A multi-faceted approach is needed to address the problem of e-scooter injuries linked to substance use.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the dangers of riding an e-scooter while impaired is crucial. Campaigns should emphasize the risks of alcohol and drug use, and also the importance of helmet use.

Stricter Enforcement of DUI Laws: Law enforcement agencies should actively patrol areas where e-scooters are popular and enforce DUI laws.

scooter Company Interventions: Rental scooter companies can implement measures such as:

* Geofencing: Restricting scooter operation in areas with high alcohol concentration during peak