Auckland man urges e-scooter helmet use after severe facial injuries
Saturday 12 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story NZME
Scott Kendall says he could have died following an e-scooter crash that left his mouth shattered. He shared his experience after reading about a West Coast mother's call for mandatory e-scooter helmets.
Key facts
5 facts
- Scott Kendall suffered a shattered palate and broken ribs in a 2024 e-scooter crash
- The accident occurred in Greenlane, Auckland
- Kendall's injuries included five broken ribs and a broken elbow
- ACC paid nearly $16 million for scooter-related injuries in 2025
- ACC paid over $1.2 million for scooter-related injuries in January 2026
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Scott Kendall is calling for mandatory full-face helmets following a 2024 e-scooter accident that left his mouth "shattered into dust". While wearing a helmet that protected him from a brain injury, the lack of a chin strap meant his jaw took the full brunt of the fall. Kendall stated that if he had not been wearing a helmet at all, he would likely have suffered a severe brain injury or died.
The accident resulted in extensive injuries, including five broken ribs, a broken elbow, and major lacerations to both hands. Kendall required a bone graft to reconstruct his palate and has had six metal plates installed in his jaw. He also suffered nerve damage, prosthetic teeth, and almost a complete loss of smell.
Kendall, who lives in Greenlane, has not ridden an e-scooter since the accident. He believes urgent regulatory intervention is needed, including laws requiring full-face helmets that cover the chin.
ACC data shows e-scooter injury claims are rising, with children and young people being among the most affected. In 2025, ACC paid out nearly $16 million for scooter-related injuries, a 10% increase from the previous year. In January 2026, just over $1.2 million was paid out.
Compiled from reports by Otago Daily Times and NZ Herald.