E-scooter and e-bike injuries in Australia: what the new data shows

The AIHW reports that hospitalisations after falls in a transport category that includes e-scooters rose from 1,291 in 2019–20 to 4,089 in 2024–25. Boys aged 12 to 15 had the highest population rate in this category. But there is a catch. The category also includes mobility scooters and other devices, and e-bikes sit in a separate mixed category. Neither gives an exact injury count for e-scooters or e-bikes alone.

More hospitalisations do not automatically mean each ride became riskier. Judging that needs trip or distance data, and these figures leave out emergency visits that did not lead to admission. Before your next ride, wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet, ride sober, put the phone away and check your local rules. Give pedestrians space and park clear of paths, ramps and entrances. Rider choices are only part of prevention. Connected, separated riding routes, safer crossings and clear footpaths matter too.