Rise in serious injuries among children in Israel — cause for concern

After the holiday in Israel, there has been a sharp increase in severe head injuries among children and teenagers in scooter and bicycle accidents. Two hospitals are treating 16 victims. Doctors link the injuries to the lack of helmets and call on parents to take responsibility.

After the holiday in Israel, a sharp increase in severe head injuries among children and teenagers has been recorded as a result of accidents involving electric scooters and bicycles. In two medical centers — Galilee and Shaare Zedek — 16 victims are being treated, some diagnosed with life-changing injuries. Dr. Nadev Sleifer, head of the pediatric surgery department at the Galilee Medical Center, describes the situation as "incredible": out of 20 children in the department, eight were injured in accidents. At Shaare Zedek, eight children were admitted in a single day. Most victims are between the ages of 4 and 17. Doctors note that none of the injured were wearing helmets. Dr. Giora Weiser emphasizes that most head injuries could have been prevented with a helmet. He also holds parents responsible for allowing children to ride without protection. According to the Beterem organization, in 2025–2026, 1,077 injuries related to the use of mobility devices were recorded among children and teenagers. 53% of injuries involving electric bicycles and scooters occurred in children under 15.