Analysis and Comparison of Electric Scooter Crashes: A Review of Crash Characteristics and Health Outcomes in Türkiye

Abstract

Micromobility, including shared e-scooters, has become a convenient mode of transportation for short-distance trips globally. Türkiye introduced shared e-scooters in 2019, quickly expanding their presence. This study analyses and identifies the crash characteristics and health outcomes of e-scooter crashes in Türkiye. It also seeks to provide recommendations for enhancing safety. This review focused on e-scooter crashes in Türkiye, a country with a population of 85,279,553. Our narrative analysis examined eight studies and eight media reports on e-scooter incidents in Türkiye, evaluating patient demographics, crash characteristics (user type, fall/collision, speed, time, location), injury types, interventions, hospitalizations, and modifiable risk factors like helmet use and alcohol consumption. Accidental involvement was slightly higher in men than in women. The rate of helmet usage is quite low. Upper extremity injuries are the most common type, followed by lower extremity injuries. Fatalities have occurred, underscoring public health concerns. E-scooter crashes often involve collisions with pedestrians and vehicles, highlighting the need for adherence to traffic rules and safe riding practices. E-scooters are a practical transportation solution but pose safety risks. Protective measures such as helmet and other protective equipment use, compliance with traffic rules, and public awareness campaigns are crucial to mitigate these risks. We conclude that e-scooter safety regulations in Türkiye should be enhanced to protect riders and pedestrians and promote a safer micromobility ecosystem.