Electric Scooter-Related Deaths in Queensland, Australia.

BACKGROUND

The use of electric scooters (e-scooters) has become an increasingly common means of transport in various parts of the world, as an affordable form of short distance transport. However, there are associated problems related to limitations of pre-existing infrastructure, legislative considerations, and injuries and deaths resulting from their use. There have been numerous studies regarding non-fatal e-scooter injuries, but few studies of fatalities.

METHODS

This paper reviews all e-scooter-related deaths in the state of Queensland, Australia, including deaths resulting from e-scooter battery fires.

RESULTS

Twenty-two deaths were recorded between 2019 and October 2025, with 19 resulting from collisions while being ridden, and three resulting from battery fires while they were charging. All collision-related deaths were of single riders with 16/19 having at least one identified factor as a potential contributor to the accident, including excessive speed, alcohol intoxication and failure to give way. Head injuries were the most common cause of death, and of note there was poor compliance with the legally mandated use of helmets, with 13/19 either not wearing a helmet or wearing one incorrectly.

CONCLUSION

Deaths from e-scooters increased between 2019 and 2024 and were usually the result of head injuries in the context of poor helmet compliance and other behavioural characteristics. Further research comparing e-scooter deaths with other transport modalities is recommended.