The number of people attending the Emergency Department at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital following e-scooter and e-bike incidents has risen sharply, with 87 cases recorded so far in 2026 compared with 23 during all of last year.
HSE Dublin and North East is urging riders to take greater care, with clinicians linking many of the injuries to speed, inexperience, a lack of protective equipment and collisions with other road users.
Dr Niall O’Connor, Lead Consultant in Emergency Medicine and Medical Clinical Director at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, said:
“We are seeing a significant increase in patients attending our Emergency Department following e-scooter and e-bike incidents. Verified Emergency Department data shows that, so far in 2026, we have treated 87 patients, almost four times the total number treated during the whole of 2025, when we saw 23 cases. These are not minor injuries. We are treating fractures, serious abdominal injuries and head injuries, some of which have life changing consequences. Many of these incidents could have been prevented.”
He added; “It is particularly concerning that, despite it being illegal for children under 16 to use e-scooters, 39 children under the age of 16 have attended our Emergency Department following e-scooter incidents so far this year, compared with 10 during the whole of 2025. We would urge parents and guardians to be aware of the legislation and the very real risks associated with e-scooter use by children.”
With the good weather and more people spending time outdoors, the HSE Dublin and North East is reminding everyone using e-scooters and e-bikes to take simple steps to reduce the risk of serious injury:
· Wear a properly fitted helmet and appropriate protective equipment.
· Ride at a safe speed and always to the conditions.
· Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
· Avoid using mobile phones or other distractions while riding.
· Ensure your e-scooter or e-bike is well maintained, with brakes, lights and tyres in good working order.
· Follow the rules of the road and be mindful of pedestrians and other road users at all times.
Emergency Departments provide care for people with serious illness and injury every day. By taking simple precautions and riding responsibly, everyone can help prevent avoidable injuries, protect themselves and others, and reduce unnecessary presentations to emergency care.
