‘We’re going to be dealing with the death on our streets here very soon’: E-scooter injuries in A&E up six-fold in just five years

The number of e-scooter related injuries resulting in A&E visits has increased more than six-fold since 2021, according to figures from the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.

In a five-year period, the number of individuals being admitted to A&E due to an e-scooter accident has increased from just 29 to 190 - a total increase of 555pc.

Meanwhile, injuries from scramblers and other off-road vehicles has increased by 33pc.

The number of injuries relating to e-scooters that have resulted in hospitalisation has also increased from 0 in 2021 to 20 this year.

Meanwhile, other off-road vehicle hospitalisations have more than doubled.

The figures have also shown the age groups most prominently involved are between the ages 0-9 and 10-19.

The use of e-scooters and other motorised off-road vehicles has been an ongoing issue within Northern Ireland, particularly in west and east Belfast, where local representatives and residents have spoken out about the dangers they pose to not only those riding them, but pedestrians too.

The figures highlight growing concerns about the risks posed to children and young people, particularly as the number of injuries requiring hospital treatment continues to rise.

With children among the age groups most frequently involved in incidents, health professionals have warned that the consequences can extend far beyond the initial accident, with some injuries requiring surgery or intensive care.

The data adds to existing calls for greater awareness of the dangers associated with these vehicles and stronger efforts to prevent further injuries.

Independent councillor Paul Doherty told the Belfast Telegraph it is “only a matter of time” before someone is killed from an e-scooter or scrambler accident.

“Mark my words, we’re going to be dealing with the death on our streets here very, very soon,” he said.

Dr Stephen Mullen, consultant in paediatric emergency medicine at Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children said: “E-scooter injuries have increased more than six-fold in just four years, and children are among those most at risk.

“This year alone, the number of children attending our emergency department with e-scooter injuries rose by 50pc, and one in five needed to be admitted to hospital.

“These are not minor bumps and scrapes.

“A third of these children have broken bones and a quarter have head injuries. Some have needed emergency surgery and intensive care, and some will live with the effects of their injuries for years to come.

“E-scooters are not toys. They are motor vehicles that can cause devastating injuries to riders, passengers, pedestrians and other road users.

“It is illegal to ride a privately owned e-scooter on public roads and pavements in Northern Ireland.

“My message to parents is simple: please don’t buy an e-scooter for your child, and if your child already has one, recognise the very real risks involved.”

The PSNI has regularly reported e-scooter and off-road vehicle seizures throughout Northern Ireland, with a total of 65 seized over the course of just one weekend in September.

One of the vehicles seized in what the PSNI called a ‘Weekend of Action’, was being ridden by a six-year-old child.

These vehicles are often taken due to being driven illegally and dangerously on public roads or pedestrian areas.

As the law currently stands, e-scooters, e-bikes and scramblers must only be driven in areas which are designated specifically for the vehicles.

A Department for Infrastructure spokesperson said: “The minister has asked officials to undertake a call for evidence, inviting the public and other interested parties to share their views, experiences and concerns. This is planned to launch in the coming weeks.

“Earlier this year, a public awareness campaign was launched to highlight the dangers associated with illegal e-scooter use, designed to increase public understanding of the current law, encourage responsible behaviour and emphasize the impact illegal e-scooter use can have on others within our community.

“The minister is acutely aware of the rising paediatric injuries caused by children using e-scooters and will be contributing to the forthcoming Paediatric Emergencies Conference which will discuss this increasingly prominent issue associated with e-scooter use.

“The department continues to work closely with the PSNI, and other key partners, including the Public Health Agency, through the Road Safety Strategic Forum to address these concerns around e-scooters and their use, particularly by children and young people.

“It is illegal to use e-scooters on public roads and spaces here, and anyone using an e-scooter illegally may be subject to enforcement action by the PSNI.

“Officials continue to monitor the progress of the e-scooter rental trials in Britain and the impact of the recent legislative developments in the South.”