Increase in moped injuries requiring emergency care.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: There has been a marked increased in moped use over the past few years. In addition, there has been an increase in moped-related injuries presenting to the emergency department (ED). The objective of this study is to characterize moped-related injuries presenting to US EDs and obtain national estimates of moped injury incidence over time. METHODS: Data regarding moped injuries were queried from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System from calendar year 2007 to 2015. Data included diagnosis, body part injured, ED disposition, and patient demographics. RESULTS: There were an estimated 114 729 moped-related injuries treated in US EDs from 2007 to 2015 (95% confidence interval, 102 156-127 302). In addition, there was an increase in the number of moped injuries annually (B = 762.1, P < .01). The average number of moped injuries yearly was 12 748. The mean age was 34 years. Patients between ages 19 and 38 years represented 42% of the study population. Men (74%) and whites (55%) accounted for most of the injured population. Most injuries were stabilized in the ED and discharged home (85%). Approximately 9% of injuries were admitted to the hospital, and fractures constituted 59% of all diagnoses admitted to the hospital. Contusions (27%) and fractures (24%) accounted for most diagnoses. The most common body part injured was the head (16%). CONCLUSIONS: Moped injuries have increased since 2007 and mopeds are associated with severe injuries. Education and reexamination of current moped laws may decrease the number and severity of moped-related injuries.