Childhood mortality from motorised and non-motorised two-wheeled vehicle crashes in Israel

The increasing use of motorised wheeled vehicles has reshaped urban mobility for children and adolescents, but also poses significant safety risks. This study examines child fatalities from crashes involving motorised two-wheeled vehicles (e-bikes and e-scooters) in Israel, comparing them to non-motorised bicycle and scooter fatalities. We analysed behavioural and demographic risk factors and provided evidence-based policy recommendations.

We analysed fatal childhood incidents (ages 0-17) recorded in Beterem Safe Kids Israel's media-based database from 2008 and 2024. Mortality rates per 100 000 were calculated, and statistical analyses, including χ² tests, assessed differences across socioeconomic and age groups.

78 child fatalities were documented; 94.9% were boys, with an average age of 11.5 years. Mortality rates rose by 60.5% after motorised vehicles were introduced in 2016. Arab children were disproportionately affected (χ²=13.46; p<0.05), particularly in non-motorised vehicle crashes. Lower-income groups had higher fatality rates, while motorised vehicle fatalities were more common in mid-to-high socioeconomic clusters.

Despite legislation, gaps in enforcement and public awareness persist. Strengthening helmet laws, enforcing speed limits and promoting safety education are crucial. Culturally and socioeconomically tailored interventions, needs-based budgeting and subsidies for protective gear can further enhance child safety.