The use of micromobility devices such as bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters is undoubtedly on the rise nationwide, according to Harvard University. Georgia Tech’s campus is no exception.  But with increased usage comes the elevated risk of accidents and injuries that could affect students’ ability to attend classes and complete assignments – not mention impacting the safety and welfare of all students, staff, faculty and visitors who traverse the campus.

Ben Holton, Senior Director of Stamps Health Services (SHS) within Student Engagement and Well-Being, said that the most common injuries are superficial, like scrapes and bruises. However, sometimes accidents can lead to major medical concerns.

“More serious injuries include broken teeth or teeth completely knocked out, and broken bones, including hand or wrist injuries, elbow injuries, and lower extremity injuries,” he said. “The most serious example is head injury, ranging from mild concussion to brain injuries with prolonged recovery.” 

Holton said that minor cuts or bruises will likely have little impact on students’ daily lives and academic performance, but more serious accidents that include head injuries can have long-lasting repercussions.

“Broken hands and wrists can impair one’s ability to write and type assignments or class notes. Dental injuries can require altered eating habits, including a liquid or soft diet for two to three weeks,” he said. “Concussion can require academic accommodation for several weeks or longer, sometimes resulting in a student needing to take an ‘incomplete’ in a class until a subsequent semester. Significant head injuries can result in a withdrawal from school.”

To help prevent injury and ensure a safe campus commute, users of micromobility devices like bikes, scooters, and skateboards should:

• Wear protective equipment, the most important of which is a helmet;
• Remember that they constitute a moving vehicle; as such, follow traffic laws and abide by all posted signs;
• Limit speed, especially at intersections, and ensure brakes are in working order
• Be observant for road hazards and construction, as well as pedestrians and other micromobility devices; and
• Avoid distractions like use of cellphones while riding.

Students who suffer injuries on campus can seek medical attention from SHS; in more serious cases, students may need to be transported and receive care from a nearby emergency department.

As part of the Institute’s commitment to campus safety, Georgia Tech has invested in sustainable infrastructure like the recently-completed Ferst Drive Cycle Track to help prevent accidents. The new cycle track, which creates protected lanes separate from vehicular traffic, officially opened during the Critical Swarm event on August 13, 2025. This Week of Welcome event celebrated the cycle track’s ribbon-cutting and the opening of Campus Recreation’s new bike shop, as well as facilitated a group bike ride through campus and into Midtown led by President Ángel Cabrera.

For more information about how to safely use micromobility devices on campus, visit the Parking and Transportation website.