Are Electric Scooters More Dangerous Than Bicycles? A Safety Comparison

Electric scooters have surged in popularity as a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate cities. But with their rise comes a heated debate: are electric scooters more dangerous than bicycles? Both modes of transport share the road, yet their safety risks differ significantly. Let’s dive into the data, rider habits, and urban challenges to uncover the truth.

Accident Rates and Injury Severity

Studies comparing electric scooters and bicycles reveal intriguing patterns. Electric scooters are involved in more accidents per mile traveled than bicycles, but the severity of injuries varies. Scooter riders often suffer head injuries and fractures due to falls, while cyclists face higher risks in collisions with vehicles.

One key factor is speed. Electric scooters can reach speeds of 15–20 mph, similar to bicycles, but their smaller wheels and shorter wheelbase make them less stable. Potholes or uneven surfaces can easily throw a scooter rider off balance, leading to falls. Bicycles, with their larger wheels and longer frames, handle rough terrain more smoothly.

Rider Behavior and Safety Gear

Another critical difference lies in rider behavior. Bicycle riders are more likely to wear helmets and follow traffic rules, while scooter riders often skip protective gear. A study found that less than 5% of scooter riders wore helmets, compared to over 50% of cyclists. This lack of protection significantly increases the risk of severe injury.

Additionally, electric scooters are frequently used for short, spontaneous trips, leading to reckless behavior like weaving through traffic or riding on sidewalks. Bicycles, often used for longer commutes, tend to follow more predictable paths, reducing collision risks.

Urban Infrastructure and Shared Spaces

City design plays a huge role in safety. Many urban areas lack dedicated lanes for scooters, forcing riders to share roads with cars or sidewalks with pedestrians. Bicycles, on the other hand, often benefit from bike lanes, which separate them from faster-moving traffic.

The sudden influx of electric scooters has also caught many cities off guard. Without clear regulations or infrastructure, conflicts arise. Pedestrians complain about scooters zipping past on sidewalks, while drivers struggle to anticipate scooter movements. Bicycles, having been around longer, are better integrated into traffic systems.

Environmental and Mechanical Factors

Weather conditions affect both vehicles differently. Wet or icy roads are hazardous for scooters due to their small tires and lack of traction. Bicycles, especially those with wider tires, handle adverse weather more effectively. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, are also more problematic for scooters, given their higher acceleration and shorter stopping distances.

The Verdict: Which Is Riskier?

While electric scooters aren’t inherently more dangerous than bicycles, their risks are amplified by rider behavior, inadequate safety gear, and poor infrastructure. Bicycles, though not without hazards, benefit from established norms and better-designed urban spaces.

So, are electric scooters more dangerous than bicycles? The answer isn’t black and white—it depends on how they’re used and the environment they’re in. One thing’s clear: both require caution, awareness, and smarter city planning to keep riders safe. Whether you’re on two wheels or a scooter deck, staying alert could mean the difference between a smooth ride and a trip to the ER.