Gold Coast hospital grapples with surge in e-scooter injuries

Health professionals say they have witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of e-transport-related injuries on the Gold Coast.

In the past 12 months, Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH) has recorded a staggering 577 e-transport-related presentations.

Emergency department specialist Dr Jeff Hooper said the hospital has seen a “massive increase in injuries over the last five years”, with a nearly 600 per cent jump in injuries from e-scooters and e-bikes.

Dr Mobin Master, a trauma doctor at GCUH, also expressed his concern.

“One thing I would never let my kids ride is an e-scooter,” Master said.

“The trauma I see – the head injuries, rib fractures, and fractured bones – is nothing short of disastrous.”

The high speeds often associated with these vehicles have resulted in severe, life-changing injuries, ranging from minor fractures to major trauma and even fatalities.

Hooper emphasised the urgent need for safety precautions, advising e-transport users to obey the speed limit, wear a helmet and protective gear, and for parents to supervise their children, especially young ones.