Changes in e-scooter related maxillofacial injuries following legislative measures in Helsinki, Finland

Abstract

Abstract The increasing use of e-scooters globally has resulted in a rise in traffic-related injuries, particularly maxillofacial trauma. This study assesses the potential impact of legislative measures, specifically speed limits and night-time usage restrictions, on reducing maxillofacial injuries from e-scooter accidents. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from patients treated for e-scooter-related injuries at Helsinki University Hospital between January 2021 and December 2023. The study included 1275 patients, aged ≥ 16 years, treated in three trauma hospitals. Patients not riding e-scooters at the time of injury were excluded. Injury patterns and the influence of legislative measures were analyzed. Among the 1275 patients, 169 (13.3%) sustained maxillofacial injuries. Legislative restrictions were associated with a significant reduction in maxillofacial injuries, with up to an 88% decrease in some months. Predictors of maxillofacial injuries included older age (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.04–1.08), alcohol intoxication (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.5–5.8), and concurrent head and neck injuries (OR 12.1, 95% CI 5.8–25.2). Legislative restrictions on e-scooter use, including speed limits and nighttime riding bans, were associated with a significant reduction in maxillofacial injuries. These findings highlight the importance of targeted policies to mitigate injury risks associated with e-scooter use.