Is it true that electric scooters are safer than bicycles? Learn Before You Buy

E-scooters and e-bikes are becoming more popular due to their environmental friendliness, ease of commuting convenience, and improved design and functionality. However, when it comes to choosing one, people are frequently divided into two camps: “some say e-scooters are better, and others say e-bikes are more convenient.” This opinionated schools regarding e-scooters and bikes rose mostly because of their road safety.

So, are electric scooters more secure than bicycles? Also, when does riding an e-scooter can be dangerous, and what makes it safer than riding an e-bike?

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents investigated bike and e-scooter accidents and safety. The study discovered that riding e-scooters is 5X safer than riding bikes, and included essential safety advice and instructions.

So let’s get into more information about the subject. You’ll also learn about scenarios where riding an e-scooter proves dangerous, as well as how to avoid them.

Are Electric Scooters Safer Than Bikes?

With the popularity of electric scooters as a form of transportation, many people are concerned about their safety in comparison to e-bikes. Some say that because of their small stature and slower speed, they are less harmful. Others, though, fear that e-scooters are unstable and offer more of a risk. 

So, what really is the situation?

According to a research conducted by the National Association of City Transportation Officials, electric scooters cause 14.3 injuries per 100,000 journeys. More than bicycles, which have 10.1 injuries per 100,000 journeys, it appears. It does not, however, tell the entire story.

We’ve already highlighted that recent RosPa investigations found e-scooters to be safer than e-bikes. It helped to improve the design and safety features of electric scooters. Due to their small size, e-scooters are less likely to be involved in collisions with cars. Its ability to maneuver through traffic without difficulty also aids in avoiding a collision.

Furthermore, when compared to the pricing of an e-scooter vs an e-bike, it combines additional protection at the same price. As a result, given the same price, an e-scooter is a safer option.

Dr. Aleksi Reito has published a study titled “Incidence of Electric Scooter-Associated Injuries in Finland From 2019 to 2021.” According to his research, 51% of e-scooter accidents occurred because the rider was intoxicated and failed to maintain adequate safety features. As a result, it essentially reveals that accidents while riding an e-scooter are more related with the rider’s carelessness than with its safety features.

According to the same study, e-bicycles are more vulnerable to accidents. So, what makes electric scooters more secure than e-bicycles? The most evident response is the recent advancement in safety features.

Electric Scooter Safety Features

When it comes to e-scooters, safety should always come first. Fortunately, the majority of manufacturers have taken the matter seriously. As a result, they have integrated several advanced safety features into their latest models.

The upgraded brakes are one of the most common safety features. The brakes on most e-scooters are of two types: disc and drum.

• Disc brakes are more energy efficient and provide more stopping power. As a result, your highway braking efficiency will improve by 15% to 20%.Drum brakes also require less maintenance and are less expensive to replace. It also has a mechanical braking mechanism that allows the e-scooter to be stopped in a shorter distance.

The LED lights on the front and back of e-scooters also give an extra layer of security. When riding at night or in low-light settings, these lights boost visibility. As a result of the better visibility, riding becomes safer. Furthermore, manufacturers are employing high-end LED lamps to improve the safety of on roads.

Furthermore, certain models include reflective stripes on both sides. It is excellent for better visibility in low-light situations. Furthermore, new shock absorbers aid to absorb vibrations from uneven routes

Finally, several electric scooter manufacturers include GPS tracking devices with their vehicles. It enables owners to remotely track their vehicles if they are stolen or misplaced.

When is it unsafe to ride an e-scooter?

Riding an e-scooter can be both enjoyable and convenient. However, keep in mind that certain scenarios when riding can be hazardous.

• Bad weather: Riding an e-scooter in damp or icy circumstances can be highly dangerous. It has the potential of causing the wheels to lose traction and skid. As a result, the likelihood related to an accident will increase.

• Inexperience: If you’re new to riding an e-scooter, you should spend some time learning how to ride properly and safely. Unfortunately, new riders frequently take the road without any safety precautions, increasing the number of e-scooter accidents.

• Reckless behavior:  As with any other mode of transportation, reckless behavior might lead to an e-scooter accident. Speeding, weaving through traffic, and without wearing a helmet are all examples of hazardous behavior. Furthermore, many people are drunk and continue to ride e-scooters, resulting in significant injuries.

• badly maintained e-scooters: A badly maintained e-scooter may be more prone to malfunctions or mechanical breakdowns. As a result, you should inspect your e-scooter’s brakes, tires, and other components on a regular basis. It will keep them in good operating order and prevent mishaps.

Top 5 Tips for Riding an E-scooter Safely

Riding an electric scooter is a convenient way to get about town. However, you must not disregard the safety guidelines in order to avoid crashes with e-scooters.

• A helmet and knee pads must be worn at all times. Wear elbow protectors and wrist guards when riding an electric scooter for added safety. Before you hit the road, you should be aware of any local rules and restrictions. Some cities have designated lanes for e-scooters and bicycles. Riding on such roads will increase your safety. 
• You should also be alert and mindful of other vehicles, pedestrians, and road or sidewalk hazards. It is useful for avoiding pedestrian collisions, which are the leading cause of e-scooter accidents.
• When turning or changing lanes, you could use hand signals. To avoid collisions, it alerts other cars when you change lanes or move to another road.

Finally, excellent routines for maintenance should be practiced. So, keep an eye on your e-scooter for any symptoms of damage or wear and tear that might affect its performance or safety.

Conclusion 

An e-scooter that is properly maintained is safer than an e-bike. E-scooters are safer on the road because of their better visibility, brakes, and GPS-locating capability. Nonetheless, in order to avoid crashes and accidents, you need to modify your irresponsible riding habits.

Riding an e-scooter or a bike is safe as long as you wear suitable protection gear and respect traffic rules. As a result, it is entirely up to you to ensure your safety while riding this environmentally friendly means of transportation.