E-scooter-related maxillofacial injuries: outcome of recent legislation change.

Abstract

Introduction: On 20 May 2024, the Irish government legalized e-scooter use on public roads under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, requiring users to be over 16 years old and adhere to a 20 km/h speed limit. With the rising popularity of e-scooters, this study examines the impact of this legislation on the incidence, clinical presentation, and management of maxillofacial injuries.

Aims: To compare the demographics, incidence rates, clinical presentation, injury patterns, and management of patients presenting to the National Maxillofacial Trauma Unit with e-scooter-related injuries before and after the legislative change.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study at St James's Hospital analysed two 9-month periods: pre-legislation (May 2023-Feb 2024) and post-legislation (May 2024-Feb 2025). All patients presenting with e-scooter-related maxillofacial injuries were included. Data collected encompassed demographics, risk factors, injury details, head and non-maxillofacial injuries, admission details (length of stay, time to treatment), treatment methods, and clinical outcomes. Statistical analysis compared the two periods.

Results: The pre-legislation period included 22 patients with 26 injuries, while the post-legislation period had 28 patients with 36 injuries. E-scooter injuries increased from 1.7 to 2.3% of trauma presentations. Post-legislation, male patients increased from 59 to 71.4%, and non-Irish nationals from 41 to 46.4%. Injuries among Dublin residents rose from 45.5 to 75%. The mean age remained consistent (~ 33 years), and patients under 16 years decreased from 3 to 1. Helmet use dropped from 22.7 to 17.9%, while alcohol/substance involvement increased from 18.2 to 35.7%. Facial injuries rose from 26 to 36, with admission rates increasing from 31.2 to 35.7%. Surgical procedures increased from 9 to 13.

Conclusion: While the legislation may have reduced injuries among those under 16 and head trauma incidence, overall injury rates and surgical interventions continue to rise with growing e-scooter use. Ongoing surveillance and policy evaluation are essential for effective injury prevention strategies.