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.