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More Scooter Information |
SourceUnited States Consumer Product Safety CommissionForumsHealth, Safety, Nutrition and KidsRelated ArticlesKent International and Kash 'N Gold Ltd. Announce Recall of ScootersA Consumer Guide to Product Safety Recalls CPSC Hotline Information |
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Injury Data * Injuries associated with unpowered scooters have increased dramatically. * From January 2000 through November 15, 2000, CPSC estimates there have been more than 30,000 emergency room treated injuries associated with scooters. * In September 2000 alone, CPSC estimates there were about 8,600 injuries. ]There was an almost 1,800 percent increase in injuries from May 2000 to September 2000. * Also in September, for the first time, scooter injuries surpassed in-line skating injuries. * About 85% of the injuries were to children less than 15 years old. * Two-thirds of the injuries were to males. * Most common injury was a fracture (29%), most often to the arm or hand. Death Data * We know of two deaths related to the new type scooter; one where an adult fell and struck his head while showing his daughter how to ride the scooter; one where a 6-year-old boy rode into traffic and was struck by a car. Market Information * Sales of new scooters were virtually zero in 1999; industry forecasts sales to reach between 2 million and 5 million units in 2000. * Most of these new scooters are made of lightweight aluminum, with small low-friction wheels similar to those on in-line skates. * The new scooters weigh less than 10 pounds and fold for easy portability and storage. * The new scooters usually cost between $50 and $120. Recommendations * Wear a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads. (Wrist guards may make it difficult to grip the handle and steer the scooter.) * Children under age 8 should not use scooters without close adult supervision.  |