I Hate Electric Scooters: Why They’re More Trouble Than They’re Worth

Electric scooters have taken over sidewalks and bike lanes, promising a convenient, eco-friendly way to get around. But for many, they’ve become a symbol of urban frustration. If you’ve ever muttered "I hate electric scooters" under your breath, you’re not alone. Here’s why these two-wheeled nuisances might be more trouble than they’re worth.

Safety Hazards Galore

One of the biggest complaints about electric scooters is their safety—or lack thereof. Riders often zip through crowded sidewalks at high speeds, weaving unpredictably between pedestrians. Unlike bicycles, scooters are nearly silent, making them hard to hear until they’re dangerously close. Collisions, falls, and even serious injuries are far too common.

Many riders ignore traffic rules, running red lights or riding against traffic. Even worse, some scooters are left abandoned in the middle of walkways, creating tripping hazards. It’s no wonder cities are struggling to regulate them.

Clutter and Urban Blight

Walk through any major city, and you’ll see electric scooters littered everywhere—parked haphazardly, blocking ramps, or even dumped in rivers. The convenience of dockless scooters comes at a cost: they turn public spaces into chaotic scooter graveyards. Sidewalks become obstacle courses, and accessibility for people with disabilities is often compromised.

Some cities have implemented fines or designated parking zones, but enforcement is spotty. Until companies take responsibility for their fleets, this problem isn’t going away.

Environmental Impact Isn’t What You Think

Proponents claim electric scooters are a green alternative to cars, but the reality is more complicated. The manufacturing process involves lithium batteries and other non-renewable resources. Many scooters have short lifespans due to vandalism or wear and tear, ending up in landfills.

Charging fleets also requires energy, often from non-renewable sources. And let’s not forget the gas-guzzling trucks used to collect and redistribute scooters nightly. The environmental benefits might not outweigh the costs.

They’re Not Even That Convenient

Sure, electric scooters are faster than walking—but they come with plenty of hassles. Finding a charged, functional scooter can be a challenge. Apps often glitch, payments fail, and scooters mysteriously vanish from maps. Then there’s the issue of pricing: short rides can cost as much as public transit, making them a poor choice for budget-conscious commuters.

And let’s be honest: riding a scooter in bad weather or on rough terrain is anything but fun. They’re impractical for groceries, kids, or anything beyond a quick solo trip.

A Nuisance for Everyone Else

Pedestrians hate dodging reckless riders. Drivers hate scooters swerving into traffic. Cyclists hate sharing lanes with unpredictable scooters. Even responsible scooter users get frustrated by the bad behavior of others, which gives the whole industry a bad name.

Until better regulations and infrastructure are in place, electric scooters will remain a divisive—and often despised—part of urban life.

Love them or hate them, electric scooters aren’t going anywhere soon. But if you’ve ever been cut off by a speeding rider or tripped over a discarded scooter, you know exactly why so many people say, "I hate electric scooters." Maybe it’s time for cities to rethink whether they’re really worth the hassle.