By: Richard L. Smith
A scene captured earlier this week at one of Elizabeth’s busiest intersections is raising awareness about the dangers of electric scooters, particularly when young children are involved.
A man was spotted traveling on an electric scooter through the intersection of North Avenue and Newark Avenue while carrying a young child on his shoulders, just outside the Chessie Dentley Roberts Academy, School No. 30.
Although the man appeared to make it safely through the intersection, the situation highlighted how quickly an ordinary trip can turn dangerous.
With vehicles moving through the busy roadway, a sudden stop, unexpected turn, or loss of balance could have placed both the rider and the child at serious risk.
The concern is not necessarily about the man’s intentions, but rather the vulnerability of a young child riding several feet above the ground without a helmet, restraint, or secure place to sit.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 380,000 emergency department visits nationwide were associated with electric scooters between 2017 and 2024, highlighting the importance of safety precautions when operating these devices.
Unlike a bicycle equipped with a properly installed child seat, a typical electric scooter is designed for a single rider.
Carrying a child on one’s shoulders can also affect balance and the ability to react quickly to traffic.
Fortunately, the pair appeared to complete the crossing safely.