A 13-year-old child from Porumbacu de Jos, seriously injured at the beginning of September in an electric scooter accident, died Saturday night. His death was confirmed by representatives of the Sibiu County Clinical Hospital, after nearly three weeks during which doctors fought to save his life.
„The 13-year-old patient, admitted to the Neurosurgery department after falling off a scooter, died last night. Unfortunately, despite all the efforts made by the specialist doctors, the young man’s condition deteriorated constantly during his hospitalization. We extend our condolences to the grieving family,” said Cristina Bălău, the hospital’s spokesperson, as quoted by the local press.
How the accident happened
The incident took place on September 2, around 9:00 PM, near the Train Station Bridge in Sibiu, close to the mall. The boy was riding his own electric scooter - not one of those offered for rent by authorities - and lost control of the direction, falling onto the road.
According to sources, he did not collide with another vehicle or obstacle, but simply lost balance and slipped on the asphalt. He was not wearing a protective helmet.
The boy was initially taken to the Luther Emergency Clinical Hospital, then transferred to the County Hospital for a surgical intervention. Despite the prompt medical intervention, his condition remained critical until his passing.
Electric scooters and risks for children
Denis's death brings attention back to the issue of safety in using electric scooters, especially by children.
The case in Sibiu is not isolated. Recently, in Piatra Neamț, a 15-year-old teenager died following a similar accident. After the tragedy, local authorities decided to ban the circulation of rented electric scooters in the city.
"It's only about rented electric scooters. It is assumed that when a parent buys one for their child, they also provide a set of rules, possibly equipment. The condition of these rented electric scooters is precarious, and legally the Police cannot take coercive measures because they are not subject to periodic technical inspections like cars," said the mayor of Piatra Neamț, Adrian Niță.
According to him, in Piatra Neamț, seven people have been injured this year in accidents involving rented electric scooters.
Investigation continues
Authorities continue their investigations to determine exactly how the tragedy in Sibiu occurred and whether additional measures are necessary.
Although in this case it does not involve a rented scooter, the incident once again highlights the need for clearer regulations regarding the minimum age, protective equipment, and permitted areas for the use of these electric vehicles.