Study finds serious injuries on Voi e-scooters are ‘extremely rare’

An independent analysis by transport research body TRL has found that shared e-scooters in the UK are associated with a low risk of injury, despite very high levels of use.

The study, commissioned by Voi, analysed more than 30 million shared e-scooter trips in the UK and found serious injuries to be extremely rare, with a lower casualty rate than shared e-bikes. 

Dr George Beard, head of new mobility at TRL, said: “As newer modes like e-scooters become more widespread, it is crucial to monitor usage and safety to understand trends in casualties and inform micromobility policy development in the UK. 

“We’re very pleased to be able to support Voi with analysis of their UK and Europe-wide e-bike and e-scooter collision data, which demonstrates their commitment to understanding and improving safety.”

Voi says the findings underline the role regulated e-scooter schemes can play as a safe and sustainable transport option.

As part of its ongoing commitment to safety — and its role as London’s micromobility operator — Voi is introducing two new safety features to its London e-scooter fleet: the Safety Centre and improved end ride photo technology.

The Safety Centre allows riders to share their live trip location with a trusted friend or family member so that they can follow their journey in real time. This means riders can let someone know they are on their way home, even if they cannot actively message during the trip.

Voi has also equipped its e-scooters with improved end ride photo technology, so that riders receive instantaneous feedback on the quality of photos of their parked e-scooter, helping prevent inconsiderate parking and keep pavements clear. 

With the use of ‘snapguards’ Voi quickly coaches riders on an acceptable photo, and if necessary warns and fines the minority of users who park inconsiderately.

Voi is also partnering with cycling charity Bikeworks to deliver a series of free e-scooter training sessions across London, designed to help new riders build confidence and develop safe riding skills.

The two new features build on Voi’s Mind the Road, Mind Each Other campaign — reinforcing Voi’s long-term approach to safety, education and shared responsibility on London’s streets. These features will be rolled out to other UK cities throughout 2026.

They work alongside existing safety features, including:

• Helmet selfies, which unlock discounted rides for those wearing helmets at the start of their ride
• Slow speed mode allowing those still building their confidence to ride at a lower capped speed
• Intoxicated riding detection discouraging rides after someone has had too much to drink
• RideSafe Academy, which teaches essential knowledge and helpful tips offering discounts once riders complete modules

Voi is the only shared micromobility operator to be a member of Road Safety GB, raising awareness of road safety and safer road user behaviour.

James Gibson, executive director of Road Safety GB, said: “Voi’s membership of Road Safety GB shows a commitment to improve road safety; the campaign and new features aim to raise awareness of safer riding.

“Together we want to improve riders’ behaviour and support local communities to create safer streets for all.

“Ultimately, it’s about saving lives and encouraging an environment where sustainable transport thrives.”

Jim Hubbard, Voi’s head of public policy, said: “Safety is always our number one priority, and we pride ourselves on taking a different, more responsible approach to e-scooters and e-bikes in the Capital.

“In a first for London micromobility, our Safety Centre feature will let our riders let their loved ones know they are on their way, and the end-of-ride photo tech allows us to clamp down on poor parking, keeping the streets clear for everyone. 

“These improvements demonstrate our continued commitment to making micromobility work in the capital offering safer, more affordable and sustainable journeys.”

---