Work

The epidemiology of electric scooter-related injuries in Malaga: effects of shifting from sidewalks to streets under new traffic regulations

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objectives To analyze injuries associated with electric scooter use in Malaga and assess the impact of recent traffic regulations, specifically the shift of electric scooters from sidewalks to streets with a speed limit of 25 km/h. Methods Retrospective descriptive study of patients attending the emergency department of the Regional University Hospital of Malaga due to electric scooter injuries between January 2018 and December 2022. The study cohort was divided into pre- and post-regulation periods, using January 2021 as the index date. Results A total of 404 patients were included. Most injuries affected the upper extremities, head and neck, face, and lower extremities. After the regulation, pedestrian collisions decreased (10.9 % → 5.2 %; p = 0.039), while collisions with cars increased (8.8 % → 18 %; p = 0.016). Injury severity and fracture locations remained similar before and after the regulation. Alcohol consumption and nighttime riding were associated with higher odds of moderate to severe injuries. Conclusions The number of electric scooter-related accidents has increased over the years. Shifting electric scooters from sidewalks to streets reduces pedestrian collisions but increases exposure to motor vehicles, highlighting a key policy trade-off. Most injuries involve the head and facial bones, supporting helmet use. These findings provide evidence to inform future preventive measures and regulatory strategies. • Electric scooter injuries increased in Malaga from 2018 to 2022. • Upper extremities and facial bones were the most commonly fractured areas. • New regulations reduced pedestrian collisions but increased car collisions. • Injury severity and fracture location remained unchanged after regulation changes. • Stricter enforcement and helmet use are recommended for injury prevention.

Source: Journal of Transport & Health

DOI: 10.1016/j.jth.2025.102208

Authors: Juan Melgar Núñez, David González-Quevedo, Enrique Guerado, Almudena Pérez Lara, David García de Quevedo, Iskandar Tamimi

Institutions: Complejo Hospitalario Torrecárdenas, Universidad de Málaga, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga

Language: English

Topic: Traffic and Road Safety

Subfield: Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,720