Doctors call surge in e-bike injuries on LI a public health crisis
Residents say reckless riding has become a common sight.
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Doctors and law enforcement officials in Suffolk County say the illegal use of e-bikes, e-scooters and electric dirt bikes is becoming an increasing threat, with dozens of serious injuries reported and at least one death.
Residents say reckless riding has become a common sight.
“Absolutely horrible. We came out of the back of the stores here and this kid must have cut a car off,” said Rose Stocks, of Bay Shore. “And he’s trying to scoot in the back of the shopping complex to get away from the car, and he almost ran us over.”
Suffolk police said they have seized more than 200 e-bikes that were being operated illegally. The police commissioner is urging parents to understand the rules and risks associated with the vehicles.
Suffolk Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina delivered a strong warning for parents who allow younger teens to use e-bikes.
“Allowing your 14-year-old child to operate an e-bike, particularly without a helmet, is really not much different than giving them a loaded handgun,” he said.
At South Shore University Hospital, physicians say the number of severe injuries linked to e-bikes continues to climb.
Dr. Richard Scriven said some of the youngest patients treated for e-bike and scooter-related injuries are elementary school-age children.
“We’ve seen patients 8 and even younger who may not have their own, but they get on their friend’s or their big brother’s scooters,” Scriven said.
Northwell Health said Cohen Children’s Medical Center has recorded 53 e-bike-related hospitalizations so far this year. South Shore University Hospital has treated a similar number of adults.
“At least 40 patients in this area have had severe injuries,” said Dr. Jerry Rubano, of South Shore University Hospital. “These include things like multiple bone fractures, rib fractures and head injuries.”
Police said e-bikes are not permitted to travel faster than 20 mph, no one under the age of 16 can operate one and all riders must wear helmets, regardless of age.
Scriven said riders should consider even greater protection.
“A bike helmet is not what they should be wearing,” he said. “They should be wearing a motorcycle helmet.”
