Number of children injured in e-scooter crashes in England surges

Calls for speed limiters or mandated helmet use after research into injuries at three paediatric trauma centres The number of children involved in crashes on e-scooters has soared in recent years, with some as young as nine involved in collisions, research has found. Researchers carried out a review of injuries among the under-16s at three specialist paediatric trauma centres – Alder Hey in Liverpool, and Sheffield and Royal Manchester children’s hospitals – between January 2019 and December 2024. They found the average age of those involved in e-scooter collisions was 12, and almost 65% of those injured were male. The most common injuries were to the limbs, followed by head and facial injuries. Fewer than 2% of patients had been wearing a helmet.

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Scoop News DeskEngland · Published Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 10:36 AM UTCUpdated Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 9:08 AM UTC

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After her son’s death, Carly Calland launched Jacob’s Journey, a campaign that aims to raise awareness about dangerous e-scooter use and the legalities around riding them. “No words will ever be able to describe the pain caused by Jacob’s death,” she told the court in a statement as his friend was sentenced. “My heart has been smashed into a thousand pieces and there is nothing that can be done to fix it. My life is a living nightmare.” DC Steve Pennington from Greater Manchester Police’s serious collision investigation unit said: “E-scooters are not harmless toys and they can lead to horrific consequences when used by inexperienced riders and without the due care required. “I would urge parents to check what their children are using and to ensure they are educated about the risks of using them on the road.” A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “These are concerning findings, and our thoughts are with anyone who has been injured on our roads. “It is illegal for private e-scooters to be used on roads, pavements or in other public spaces, including by under-16s, and we’re bringing forward new laws to make their use safe and legal, including consulting on requirements like helmets.” Number of children injured in e-scooter crashes in England surges.

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