00:00Almost 500 children were treated for e-scooter injuries at three trauma centres between January 2019 and December 2024.
00:10The centres were in Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield.
00:14Researchers say children are suffering serious injuries with the average patient aged 12.
00:19The analysis found 74% lived in the most deprived areas, half were aged between 10 and 13.
00:2695% of injuries happened to the rider, while 80% involved privately owned scooters.
00:33Half happened on public land, including roads and parks.
00:36Head injuries accounted for 24.1% of cases.
00:41One in ten head injuries needed scans, hospital admission or surgery.
00:45Among seriously injured children, 48% were hurt after hitting a car or object and just 1.8% wore
00:54helmets.
00:54The study says e-scooter injuries are rising and calls for public health messages and a review of government legislation.
01:02Researchers say retailers should make customers aware of legal requirements and safety standards.
01:08Reducing injuries will protect children and reduce pressure on services.
01:13Privately owned e-scooters remain illegal to use in public in England.
01:17Rental scooters can be used in trial areas, including Liverpool, under rules.
01:21The Department for Transport says it is bringing forward laws to make e-scooter use safe and legal, including the
01:28use of helmets.
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