Estonia medical costs for injured minors exceed 7.9 million euros

Accidents involving minors on light vehicles and bicycles are resulting in significant medical costs in Estonia. According to Health Insurance Fund data, over 7.9 million euros were paid for the treatment of minors injured in accidents between 2021 and 2026, with 2023 seeing the highest expenditure at over 1.63 million euros. In 2024, 4,325 young people were recorded as injured.

While electric scooter accidents occur frequently, the Transport Administration notes that only 49% of injured minors were riding light vehicles. A major factor in the severity of these accidents is the failure to wear helmets. Police and experts observe that while parents often provide safety gear, children frequently stop wearing helmets due to peer pressure or when out of sight of adults.

Experts suggest that children under 15 may not be prepared for the speeds associated with these vehicles. In comparison, Finland prohibits electric scooter use for children under 15.