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2w ago

Study Reveals Key Risk Factors in Severe E-Scooter Accidents in Germany

New research highlights alcohol, night-time use, and lack of helmets as major contributors to injuries, prompting calls for stricter safety measures.

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E-scooters use. Undated file photo of a person using an e-scooter. More than a fifth of rental e-scooter trips replace car journeys, according to a new report, leading to calls for their use to be encouraged. Shared transport charity CoMoUK, which published the analysis, urged the Government to introduce new legislation for e-scooters to end "years of confusion about their status". Issue date: Monday May 5, 2025. See PA story TRANSPORT Scooter. Photo credit should read: Nick Potts/PA Wire URN:79984889

Overview

  • A study of 538 severe E-scooter accidents in Germany from 2020 to 2023 found that most incidents occurred at night or on weekends, often involving younger male riders under the influence of alcohol.
  • Head and facial injuries were the most common, with over 83% of victims requiring intensive care and 26 fatalities recorded during the study period.
  • Alcohol was a significant factor, with 62% of tested riders having alcohol in their blood and 35% exceeding the legal limit.
  • Researchers recommend interventions such as helmet mandates, restricted night-time availability, speed limits, and in-app reaction tests to curb accidents and fatalities.
  • International models, including helmet laws in Australia and night-time restrictions in Oslo, are cited as potential frameworks for improving E-scooter safety in Germany.