We’ve all seen them — e-bikes and scooters buzzing past.

Known collectively as “micromobility,” these devices offer a flexible, eco-friendly and affordable way to get around.

Unfortunately, along with the popularity of micromobility, emergency and trauma departments have seen a rise in preventable injuries.

“Part of it is volume. There are way more riders out there than even a few years ago,” says Kory London, MD, Director of Clinical Operations – Jefferson Methodist Hospital ED and a biking enthusiast himself. “The other part is the roads. The cold winter leaves a lot of potholes, and at e-bike or scooter speeds, hitting one can throw you right off the bike.”

Many micromobility accidents are caused by other hazards, Dr. London explains. Riders can catch a wheel in train tracks or riders can get hit by cars or car doors.

Helmets are key

William (Bill) McQuilken, Trauma Prevention Coordinator, Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, says it’s important for people to know that proper helmet fit and type of helmet — not just helmet use — make a significant difference.

“Some e-bikes get up to 40 mph, which is like a small motorcycle,” McQuilken says.

E-bikes and regular bicycles require two entirely different bike helmets. A standard bicycle helmet must meet the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) 1203 standard. Since e-bikes can legally reach speeds up to 28 mph, riders should wear helmets that meet the NTA 8776 standard, a widely accepted Dutch standard that offers better protection against higher impact speeds, covering a larger portion of the head, including the back of the head and temples.

“An NTA 8776 helmet fits like a regular bicycle helmet,” McQuilken says, “but it’s manufactured to provide the additional protection required of higher-level speeds.”

E-bike riders might also consider helmets with features listed below:

• MIPS technology: Reduces rotational forces during angled impacts

• Full-face helmets: Provide maximum coverage, ideal for fast or off-road riding

• E-bike certified helmets: Meet specific standards for electric bike accidents, offering enhanced protection

“Even when a traumatic brain injury doesn’t cause coma or death, it can leave you with chronic headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, coordination problems and brain fog that can last months or years,” Dr. London says.

Micromobility safety

Riders can do a lot to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

“Ride defensively,” Dr. London says. “Don’t wear noise-canceling headphones. And put a bright light on the front and back of your bike or wear reflective clothes after dark.”

Riders should abide by the rules for where they are permitted to ride and have mirrors large enough to see.

Whether you are a micromobility rider or a driver sharing the road, it’s important to stay vigilant, avoid distracted driving and respect everyone on the road. A few simple precautions can make a lifesaving difference.

Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Carbon’s emergency room is open 24/7 and offers high-quality care.