A Survey of Electric-Scooter Riders’ Route Choice, Safety Perception, and Helmet Use

This study investigated electric-scooter (e-scooter) rider behaviors and preferences to inform ways increase safety for e-scooter riders. Data was collected from 329 riders via two online one in-person survey. Survey questions considered roadway infrastructure preferences, perceptions, helmet-wearing behavior. Protected bike lanes were more commonly indicated as the safest (62.4%) but less likely be most preferred (49.7%). Sidewalks better matched between riders, indicating them their riding (22.7%) perceived (24.5%). Riders had low feelings of preference on major/neighborhood streets or unprotected lanes. reported significant concern about being hit by a moving vehicle, running into pothole/rough roadway, vehicle. In line with Theory Planned Behavior, relationship found frequency behavior, frequent wear helmets. Findings suggest that existing may pose challenges encourage rider-selected workarounds. Public policy consider emphasizing protected bicycle lane development, rather than helmet mandates, support all vulnerable road users.