We did question lack of safety while in Nashville. The rules clearly say helmets required, and there is an age limit, although we saw young kids on them without helmets. Most were being ridden on sidewalks, not on busy streets, so that rule wasn’t being informed either.
For private use around a campground, issues are very different. It’d be like comparing a golf cart in a campground versus driving it in a downtown area. There’s probably not that much difference between these scooters and electric bikes, although a bike should be a little safer — just a guess though.
Regarding helmets, after putting a few to the test, I’m convinced they do save lives. After an accident, seeing your crushed or cracked helmet makes a loud statement.