E-Bike and E-Scooter Injuries Surge in Minnesota

Officials urge helmet use as hospital admissions spike

Apr. 9, 2026 at 7:07pm

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A minimalist design in the style of Keith Haring where the outline of an e-bike is defined entirely by vibrant neon lines against a deep, dark background, emphasizing the shape and electricity of the vehicle.Surging e-bike and e-scooter injuries in Minnesota highlight the urgent need for greater safety precautions and helmet use among riders.Marshall Today

Minnesota hospital officials are raising concerns about a sharp rise in injuries tied to e-bikes and e-scooters, with e-bike admissions increasing by 800% and e-scooter admissions rising by 80% since 2023. Nearly 60% of e-scooter riders treated were not wearing helmets, leading to traumatic brain injuries and serious head and facial injuries.

Why it matters

The surge in e-bike and e-scooter injuries highlights the need for greater safety awareness and helmet usage among riders, especially as these new transportation modes become more popular. Traumatic brain injuries can have devastating long-term consequences, underscoring the importance of prioritizing safety.

The details

Colleen Wood, Pediatric Trauma Program manager at Regions Hospital, says the increase in e-bike and e-scooter injuries has been significant across all age groups. She notes that the hospital's tracking systems are likely underestimating the true scope of the problem as new devices enter the market faster than the systems can adapt.

  • Since 2023, e-bike admissions have increased by 800%.
  • Since 2023, e-scooter admissions have risen by 80%.

The players

Colleen Wood

Pediatric Trauma Program manager at Regions Hospital.

Danielle Michaels

A Wisconsin family member who lost her daughter Stella in an e-scooter crash.

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What they’re saying

“Since 2023 e-bike admissions have increased by 800 percent while e-scooter admissions have risen by 80 percent. And any emergency department or trauma provider will tell you these numbers are likely an underestimate of the true scope of the problem as new devices enter the market faster than our hospital tracking systems can adapt.”

— Colleen Wood, Pediatric Trauma Program manager

“I never imagined living a life without Stella and I don't want any other family member or any other family to experience this pain. So please wear the helmet, make your kids wear a helmet. Make it normal and make it cool because losing as child is something no parent should ever have to endure.”

— Danielle Michaels

What’s next

The 'SLOTH' campaign — Save Loved Ones Through Helmets — has been launched to encourage riders to prioritize safety and wear helmets.

The takeaway

This surge in e-bike and e-scooter injuries underscores the critical need for increased safety awareness and helmet usage among riders of all ages. Traumatic brain injuries can have devastating long-term consequences, making helmet use essential for protecting riders and preventing tragedies.