Every day, people in Sweden are injured after falling off their electric scooters. Many people think it's just a matter of abrasions, but the reality is different. Broken wrists, broken collarbones, concussions and facial injuries are common – and often the accident happens in just a few seconds.
In this guide, we at Ramla inte AB go through the most common injuries, when you should seek medical attention, and how you can reduce the risk of having a serious accident. Ramla inte AB offers over 500 aids and is run by licensed occupational therapists and doctors. See our entire range here.
I have fallen with an electric scooter – what should I do?
If you have just fallen, the most important thing to first check is:
- Have you hit your head?
- Can you move your arms and legs?
- Are you bleeding heavily?
- Are you having difficulty breathing?
- Do you have a lot of pain in a joint or leg?
If you have severe pain, suspect a fracture, or have hit your head and feel dizzy , you should seek medical attention immediately.
Most common injuries after an electric scooter accident
1. Broken wrist
This is by far the most common injury. When you fall, most people automatically reach out to catch themselves. The force is then so great that the wrist can be broken.
Common symptoms:
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Difficulty moving the hand
- Misalignment
- Reduced grip strength
If you suspect a fracture, you should seek medical attention the same day.
2. Broken collarbone
The collarbone often breaks when you land on your shoulder.
Symptoms:
- Pain above the shoulder
- Pain when you lift your arm
- Swelling
- Crackling sensation
3. Concussion
If you hit your head, you should always pay attention to symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Memory gaps
- Fatigue
- Confusion
If symptoms worsen or if the person becomes difficult to wake up, you should contact emergency medical care immediately.
4. Rib injuries
Does it hurt when you breathe deeply?
This may involve:
- Rib fracture
- Muscle stretching
- Severe chest contusion
Seek medical attention if you have difficulty breathing or severe pain.
5. Knee and ankle injuries
In severe cases, it is common to have:
- Sprains
- Ligament injuries
- Meniscus injuries
- Fractures
If you are unable to put weight on your leg, you should be examined. Cold and compression can relieve pain and reduce swelling. Don't fall Offers a wide range of pain relief and protection. See our range.
When should you seek medical attention in the event of an electric scooter accident?
Seek medical attention immediately if you:
- suspect something is broken
- has hit his head and is dizzy
- has severe swelling
- cannot support the leg
- have numbness
- has an open injury
- have difficulty moving an arm or leg
In case of life-threatening symptoms – call 112.
Why there are so many accidents with electric scooters
Many people believe that accidents are caused by speeding. This is sometimes true – but far from always.
Common causes are:
- Small wheels that get stuck on bumps
- Wet leaves
- Gravel
- Curbstones
- Pothole in the road
- Braking with the front wheel
- Driving in the dark
- Driving with one hand
- Two people riding the same electric scooter
How to reduce the risk of falling with an electric scooter
Here are the most important tips:
- Wear a helmet – every time.
- Adjust the speed to the surface.
- Never drive on wet leaves or gravel at high speed.
- Look far ahead instead of just in front of the wheel.
- Brake gently with both brakes.
- Do not drive if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Never ride two people on the same electric scooter.
- Use reflectors and lighting when it is dark.
What do you do after a fracture?
Once the bone has healed, the next important step begins – rehabilitation.
Many people experience:
- stiffness
- reduced strength
- poor balance
- uncertainty
- fear of falling again
A gradual return to everyday life together with the right training can help you regain function and self-confidence.
Occupational therapist's advice
As an occupational therapist, I often see people whose lives are changed by a single fall. It’s not just about a broken leg or wrist. Many become afraid to move again and limit their daily activities long after the injury has healed. The best protection is therefore not just a helmet – but also driving with a margin, adjusting your speed and thinking one step ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you break your wrist even at low speed?
Yes. Most wrist fractures occur when you catch yourself with your hand during a fall, even at relatively low speed.
How do I know if my wrist is broken?
If you have severe pain, swelling, difficulty moving your wrist, or see a misalignment, you should seek medical attention for an assessment and possible X-ray.
Do I need to seek medical attention if I hit my head?
If you experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, or other neurological symptoms, you should seek medical attention. If your condition worsens, contact emergency medical services immediately.
How can I avoid falling?
Wear a helmet, drive slowly, avoid slippery surfaces and be extra careful on curves, curbs and uneven roads.
Do you need products that can reduce the risk of falls?
At Ramla int, we work with safety and fall prevention. Our range includes reflectors, anti-slip and other products that can contribute to a safer everyday life – both at home and outdoors.
Preventing a fall is always better than rehabilitating an injury.
