Lucile Packard Hospital Study: E-Device Injuries in Children Surge 400%

Pediatric injuries involving e-bikes have risen by roughly 400% since 2023, according to a study published Nov. 2 in JAMA. The data, gathered from emergency rooms, hospitals, and urgent care centers across the U.S., also shows an almost 200% increase in e-scooter accidents. Dr. Alan Schroeder, a pediatrician at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, co-authored the paper with a team of colleagues who analyzed patient data through 2026.

The surge in accidents has forced a reevaluation of how families and states manage these vehicles. Schroeder recently nearly collided with an e-bike rider in New York City. He estimated the rider was traveling 30 miles per hour. The paper notes that severe injuries, such as those requiring surgery or intensive care, were about twice as likely when a powered vehicle was involved compared to traditional, non-motorized bikes.

Dr. Stephanie Chao, a pediatric trauma surgeon at the same hospital, described the trend as an exponential rise. She noted that a large portion of injuries involves children younger than 12. These young riders often lack the coordination to handle the speed and stopping distance of electric devices. Chao stated that standard bike safety experience does not translate to the faster electric versions.

Many devices marketed as e-bikes are actually electric motorcycles, or e-motos. Dr. Preeti Panda, a pediatric emergency room doctor, observes that these vehicles can exceed 60 miles per hour. She conducts counts of high school parking lots and finds that 80% to 90% of electric devices are e-motos. In California, e-motos intended for public roads must be registered, insured, and operated by licensed riders. Children under 16 cannot hold these licenses.

Panda reports seeing at least one e-device injury per shift. She notes that young patients often report speeds of 35 to 45 miles per hour. If a child on an illegal device causes an accident, both the child and the parents can face criminal charges. The research team suggests that consistent age limits and strict enforcement could reduce the public health burden.

The authors recommend that families have serious conversations before allowing children to ride. Schroeder argues that children under 12 should not operate electronic devices. He also advises using high-speed helmets, such as those with facial protection, rather than standard bicycle helmets. The study aims to provide evidence for policies that restrict usage among younger demographics.