Purpose: Electric scooters (e-scooters) have rapidly become a mainstream method of transportation in the U.S. but there is consequently limited data on their safety profile. This study evaluates ophthalmic injuries related to e-scooters compared to non-motorized scooters and off-road vehicles (ORV).
Methods: This retrospective study uses the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (2014 to 2023). Ocular injury profiles associated with conventional scooters, e-scooters, and off-road vehicles were included.
Results: E-scooter ocular injuries rose by 1950% between 2014 and 2023. E-scooter riders were 4.3 times more likely to sustain orbital fractures and 2.7 times more likely to be hospitalized than non-motorized scooter riders. ORV and e-scooter riders had comparable injury and hospitalization patterns. Alcohol use and lack of helmet use were significant contributors to injury severity.
Conclusions and relevance: Injury patterns and hospitalization rates in e-scooter accidents resemble those of ORV incidents. Findings highlight the need for public health interventions to reduce the burden of e-scooter-related injuries.
Keywords: E-scooter; electric scooter; eye injury; ocular trauma; off-road vehicles; orbital fracture.