VALENTINE, Neb. - As electric scooters become more popular across the U.S., injuries are rising at an alarming rate. A study published in the journal Injury Prevention found that emergency room visits related to e-scooter and e-bike accidents have tripled nationwide since 2019.

The trend is evident in communities big and small, including Valentine. More young riders are using e-scooters as a primary way to get around town.

“I like riding it around town,” said 13-year-old Nash Hesse. “A lot of my friends have them, and we like to go to the gas station and get snacks and stuff.”

Scooter sales are expected to grow by 13% annually, with the industry projected to exceed $50 billion by 2032. In Valentine, that growth is reflected in the increasing number of scooters seen outside schools, stores and along the street.

“Over the summer, there were a few, but once school started, you drive by the middle school, and there’s a pile of them parked out front,” said Valentine Police Officer Brandon Ormesher.

With the rise in e-scooter use, however, safety concerns are mounting. Many reported injuries stem from collisions, falls, and improper riding practices.

“Our main complaint at the police department is kids riding on the sidewalk and not being mindful of pedestrians,” Ormesher said.

To reduce the risk of accidents, officials advise riders to keep scooters on the road, not the sidewalks, and follow basic traffic rules.

“Ride with the flow of traffic, stop at stop signs, use hand signals—just like we were taught for bicycle safety back in elementary school,” Ormesher said.

A few simple tips to keep the fun rolling on two wheels.

“I like being able to go places without my parents having to give me a ride or walking,” said Hesse.