Sharp Rise in Serious E-Scooter Accidents in Sweden Highlights Alcohol and Helmet Safety Concerns

A new study reveals a 38% increase in serious electric scooter accidents in Sweden over the past year, with fatalities and injuries reaching alarming levels in 2025. According to Transportstyrelsen and research from Chalmers University of Technology and Trafikverket, seven people died and more than 6,600 were injured in e-scooter accidents last year.

The analysis of 204 fatal accidents between 2016 and 2024 shows that e-scooter accidents have distinct characteristics compared to those involving e-bikes and traditional bicycles. A striking finding is the low helmet usage among deceased e-scooter riders; none of those who died were wearing helmets, whereas about a quarter of cyclist fatalities involved helmet use. Intoxication is also a major risk factor — 44% of the fatal e-scooter riders were under the influence of alcohol, a much higher rate than the 27% for e-bike riders and 13% for traditional cyclists.

Most fatal e-scooter crashes happen during weekend nights, and contrary to popular belief, the majority involve privately owned scooters rather than rental models. Marco Dozza, professor at Chalmers, stressed the importance of rethinking societal attitudes towards e-scooters, advocating for their recognition as legitimate vehicles akin to bicycles. This shift is crucial for improving safety and encouraging responsible behavior.

These findings underscore significant safety concerns regarding helmet usage and alcohol consumption among e-scooter users in Sweden, highlighting the urgent need for better regulation and public education to prevent further fatalities and injuries.