Low Helmet Use Among Shared Micromobility Riders in San Francisco
Author Information
Author(s): Frye Willow, Chehab Lara, Feler Joshua, Wong Laura, Tan Amy, Alpers Benjamin, Patel Devika, von Hippel Christiana, Sammann Amanda
Primary Institution: University of California, San Francisco
Hypothesis
Helmet use would be lower among riders of shared vehicles compared to personal vehicles.
Conclusion
Helmet usage is significantly lower among shared micromobility riders, particularly e-scooter users, indicating a need for public health interventions.
Supporting Evidence
- Shared micromobility riders wore helmets less than half as often as personal vehicle riders.
- E-scooter riders using shared services had the lowest helmet use rates.
- Helmet use was significantly higher among personal c-bicycle riders in the morning compared to the evening.
Takeaway
Many people riding shared bikes and scooters in San Francisco don't wear helmets, which can lead to serious injuries.
Methodology
Cross-sectional observational study evaluating helmet use among riders at key intersections during peak commute hours.
Potential Biases
Potential for repeated observations of the same rider; data does not account for helmet use in inclement weather.
Limitations
Observational nature limits generalizability; convenience sampling may not capture rider demographics.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Confidence Interval
CI 0.41–0.49
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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