Scooter Injuries Tripled: US Hospitalizations (2016-2020)
- A new study led by UCLA researchers reveals a meaningful increase in scooter injuries across the United States.
- The study compared trends in scooter injuries and bicycle injuries using data from the National Inpatient Sample.
- According to the study, 27% of injured scooter riders were under 18, compared to 16% of injured bicyclists.
From 2016 to 2020, scooter injuries in the U.S. nearly tripled, escalating healthcare costs fivefold. A UCLA study, published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons, reveals a dramatic surge in both scooter injuries and the financial burden they impose. The research meticulously examines data from the National Inpatient Sample,highlighting the need for increased safety measures and infrastructure improvements to prevent scooter accidents. Orthopedic and plastic surgeries were frequently required, and a disproportionate number of injured riders were under 18. News Directory 3 keeps readers informed on crucial data points. The annual cost of treating these injuries soared from $6.6 million to $35.5 million. What safety measures and infrastructure will be put in place to curb this trend, Discover what’s next in safety regulations.
Scooter Injuries Triple, Driving Up Healthcare Costs
Updated June 16, 2025
A new study led by UCLA researchers reveals a meaningful increase in scooter injuries across the United States. From 2016 too 2020, these injuries nearly tripled, accompanied by a five-fold increase in healthcare costs. The research,published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons,highlights the growing financial strain on the healthcare system due to scooter accidents.
The study compared trends in scooter injuries and bicycle injuries using data from the National Inpatient Sample. Out of approximately 93,000 patients hospitalized for injuries, about 6,100 were scooter-related. researchers found that scooter injuries often required major operative interventions, particularly orthopedic and plastic surgery.
According to the study, 27% of injured scooter riders were under 18, compared to 16% of injured bicyclists. Scooter injuries were also more frequent during the winter months.Medicaid was the primary insurer for a higher percentage of scooter-related injuries compared to bicycle injuries.
The annual healthcare costs associated with treating scooter injuries surged from $6.6 million in 2016 to $35.5 million in 2020. While bicycle injuries also saw an increase, the rise was less dramatic, from $307 million to $434 million.
“Considering the rise in the number of hospitalizations and major operations for scooter-related injuries, it’s crucial to elevate safety standards for riders,” said Nam Yong Cho, lead author and UCLA medical student.
Cho also advocated for improved infrastructure, including enforced speed limits and dedicated lanes, to minimize risks for all road users.
What’s next
Researchers emphasize the need for healthcare leaders to promote scooter-related injury prevention and community safety. Further studies are needed to gather more granular data, such as helmet use and the influence of intoxicants, to better understand and prevent these injuries.