Xmas warning for parents: E-scooters leave thousands hospitalised

RACQ11/12/2025
News
RACQ has urged parents to think carefully before wrapping up an e-scooter for their child this Christmas as new data revealed the alarming rate of hospitalisations from e-scooter crashes in Queensland.
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Research conducted by the Jamieson Trauma Institute, in partnership with RACQ, found in the first 10 months of 2025, 1,608 e-scooter riders ended up in Queensland hospitals after crashing – that’s five people per day.

The data also revealed between January 2018 to October 2025, 7,237 people presented to an emergency department after e-scooter crashes in Queensland, with 1,391 needing further treatment.
 
RACQ’s Principal Technical Researcher, Andrew Kirk, said this surge in crashes highlight the need for parents to research thoroughly before purchasing an e-scooter this Christmas.
 
“When we look at the types of injuries, 28.3% sustained head injuries, 23.9% suffered facial trauma, and almost half (43.4%) experienced fractures,” Mr Kirk said.
 
“With more than 50% of injuries affecting the face or head, it’s clear many riders are not wearing helmets correctly, not wearing them at all, or the helmet they’re using isn’t protective enough.
 
“This is exactly why RACQ recommends stand-up e-scooter riders wear a full-face helmet – to reduce the likelihood of severe facial injuries.”
 
Aside from buying quality protective gear, the Club advised parents to be diligent and ensure they gift legal devices.
 
"Make sure the e-scooter weighs less than 60 kilograms and fits within the legal-size limits – either 1,250mm long by 700mm wide by 1,350mm high, or 700mm long by 1,250mm wide by 1,350mm high,” Mr Kirk said.
 
“It’s also important to check the e-scooter has a bell or similar warning device and no sharp edges or protrusions.
 
“Finally, remember the rules in Queensland – children under 12 are not allowed to ride e-scooters, and those aged 12 to 16 must be supervised by a responsible adult.”
 
When it comes to e-bikes, RACQ urged parents to steer clear of illegal devices which are currently flooding the market.
 
“We know many children will be asking for an e-bike this Christmas because their friends have one, and we understand it can be difficult to know what’s legal and what isn’t,” Andrew Kirk said.
 
“Parents should look out for key signs of an illegal e-bike, for example, if it doesn’t have pedals or can travel faster than 6km/h without pedalling, it’s illegal.
 
“Don’t put your child’s life at risk this festive season with an illegal e-scooter or e-bike – make informed choices, prioritise safety, and ensure your holidays are memorable for all the right reasons.”

 

For more information visit: Rules for personal mobility devices | Transport | Queensland Government
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