Impact of Different Infrastructures on the Behavioral and Physiological Responses of E-scooter Users

Transportation is the predominant source of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 28%. Micromobility options, such as e-scooters, are hailed as eco-friendlier alternatives and have the potential to displace less sustainable modes. Despite their rising global adoption, a corresponding increase in related injuries has been reported by emergency departments. Current e-scooter safety research, largely based on surveys, media, and vendor data, falls short in addressing the real-world effects of rider behavior and physiological responses. This study conducts naturalistic experiments to assess e-scooter user responses across various infrastructures and traffic conditions. Our results reveal that infrastructure design and speed profoundly impact riding behavior. Significantly, e-scooters encounter elevated safety risks in areas with variable speeds and lacking dedicated infrastructure. These findings highlight the crucial role of infrastructure in ensuring e-scooter safety and provide valuable insights for future urban planning and policymaking aimed at safeguarding the well-being of micromobility users.