Lawn mower injuries: 84,497 ER visits in 2025
Walk-behind and riding mower injuries from CPSC hospital data, and why riding mowers send more people to hospital.
Walk-behind and unspecified lawn mowers were involved in an estimated 68,019 ER visits in 2025, and riding mowers and garden tractors in 16,479.
| Mower type | ER visits 2025 | Admitted | Top injury | Top body part |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lawn mowers (walk-behind & unspecified) | 68,019 | 14.1% | Other | Finger |
| Riding mowers & garden tractors | 16,479 | 18.6% | Other | Lower trunk |
Riding mowers are more serious
Fewer people are hurt on riding mowers, but 18.6% of those ER visits end in admission or transfer, against 14.1% for walk-behind mowers. Rollovers on slopes are a known cause.
Children
2.9% of walk-behind mower injuries and 3.7% of riding mower injuries in 2021–2025 involved children under 15. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that children should be at least 12 to use a walk-behind mower and 16 for a riding mower, and should never ride as passengers.
- Mow across slopes with a walk-behind, and up and down with a rider, unless the manual says otherwise.
- Never clear a jammed chute by hand. Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug.
- Wear closed shoes and eye protection.
Full data: Lawn mowers (walk-behind & unspecified) · Riding mowers & garden tractors.