Today, there are more than 150 million electric scooters across the United States, with more than 20 million new users joining the craze every year. Millions of people all over the country ride e-scooters to get from place to place, and several cities have even come up with designated zones for them.
These small green machines are perfect for getting around a city or campus quickly. But are they also good for your health?
Although it seems like everyone has an opinion about them, there is very little research on whether e-scooters pose a real health risk. To gain some insights into this specific topic, we will go through every side of it in this article.
What is an E-Scooter?
Electric scooters are lightweight, small-sized vehicles that are powered by rechargeable batteries and can be ridden like a regular bike or a skateboard.
They have a small diameter, so they are easy to park and they can be used on most pavements and sidewalks. They are also quiet enough that they can be used at night.
These scooters can be operated both on land and on water, and they can reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour. They are especially popular in Asian countries, where they are known as an “auto rickshaw,” or in the US as an “electric skateboard.”
Health Risks of Electric Scooters
An electric scooter poses few health risks when used appropriately. They are pedal-powered so there is no engine noise to worry about and they can reach speeds of up to 15 miles per hour, meaning they are not as fast as regular cars.
Some of these electric scooters though can reach up to speeds of 85 Km per hour. Electric scooters designed for adults and offroad movement tend to reach that kind of speeds which may pose a thread to untrained drivers.
All these factors together mean that electric scooters pose almost no health risks. However, there are some issues that you should be aware of, especially if you have a heart condition or take medication. For example, while they are a great way to get around quickly, they are not designed for long distances or for people who are not in good health.
And one more thing to be aware of is that the electric scooters you see around are often made for a single user only and people often misuse them, riding them on the sidewalk or in traffic.
You should never ride electric scooters on the road without proper training or a helmet.
Benefits of E-Scooters
- E-scooters are fun to ride - No matter your age, experience level, or fitness level, e-scooters are a great way to get around on two wheels. They are also great for exploring new places and for getting exercise.
- E-scooters have a low environmental impact - Compared to cars and motorcycles, e-scooters have a much cleaner environmental impact. They are quieter, they require less space to park, and they do not require any fuel
- E-scooters are cheap to own and operate - E-scooters are very affordable compared to cars, motorcycles, or even skateboards. They are also very affordable compared to public transportation. This makes them an especially viable option for college students.
- E-scooters are great for getting around - They are much quieter than cars and motorcycles, so they are great for quiet places like libraries, hospitals, and restaurants. They can also be used during rush hour traffic to avoid sitting in a car.
- E-scooters are safe to ride - Like bicycles and skateboards, e-scooters are safer than motorcycles and cars. They do not require a license and can be used on most public pathways and sidewalks.
- E-scooters are environmentally friendly - Compared to motorcycles, scooters have a much cleaner environmental impact. They are also less harmful to roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes.
Is Riding an Electric Scooter Dangerous?
Yes and no. While injuries seem to be rare, electric scooters are not designed for long-term use and they are very different from regular bicycles. If you use an e-scooter for a short period, you are more likely to experience a knee or leg injury.
