How Safe Are Motor Scooters in Kansas City?

Ryan Bradley | December 21, 2021 | Motor Scooter Accidents

Kansas City is a bustling metropolis that sprawls into two separate states. It’s unique and historic. It’s also busy and growing quickly. So if you’re tired of sitting in traffic, you may be looking for a quick and easy way to get around town. 

Could a motor scooter be the answer? There are pros and cons to these mini vehicles. If you want to learn more and decide whether a motor scooter might be a good investment, you’ll find everything you need to know about motor scooter safety in this post.

Are Motor Scooters Street-Legal in Kansas City?

Since the city crosses into two states, the answer to this question has two parts. Whether you are team Kansas or team Missouri, you’ll find the information you need here.

In Missouri

Riding a motorized bicycle or scooter on public streets is legal in Missouri, so long as the operator has a valid driver’s license. 

According to a memo from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, these vehicles are often marketed as a toy. However, they are held to the same laws as any other motor vehicle. 

In Kansas

In Kansas, the laws for motor scooters are essentially the same as those for motorcycles. If the vehicle can travel faster than 30 mph, it can be used on public roads. However, you’ll need a motorcycle operator license and insurance to ride legally. 

How Safe Are Motor Scooters?

Now you know that motor scooters are street legal. But the question remains: Are they safe? 

Because these vehicle types are fairly new, there’s not a lot of information out there to learn from. 

However, you can safely assume that they hold at least the same amount of risk as a motorcycle. And one quick look at any kind of accident statistics is all it takes to understand that riding a motorcycle is dangerous. 

For example:

• Around 5,000 riders die each year on U.S. roads
• Between 80,000 to 100,000 people are injured each year while riding bikes in the United States
• Motorcycle riders are 29 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants

These startling statistics are mainly due to the fact that smaller vehicles can easily fall into the blind spots of fellow travelers. Plus, because riders are not protected by an exterior shell, they are much more likely to become injured when they do get in an accident. 

How Can I Prioritize Safety When Riding a Motor Scooter?

These statistics shouldn’t dissuade you from riding a motor scooter. The truth is that all forms of travel have inherent risks. But if you want to protect yourself in a scooter accident, it’s best to invest in a few safety habits:

Wear the Right Equipment

When you’re riding your motor scooter, don’t forget your DOT-approved helmet. It’s legally required in Kansas and strongly recommended in Missouri. But either way, a helmet will keep you safe and help you to avoid a traumatic brain injury. 

While you’re investing in quality equipment, purchase a pair of heavy-duty pants and a heavy-duty jacket. That way, you’ll be much less vulnerable to road rash should you get in an accident. 

Obey Traffic Rules

On a motor scooter, it can be tempting to cut corners, both literally and figuratively. But if you want to stay safe and avoid liability for an accident, it’s best to use your signals, drive the speed limit, and refrain from lane splitting. 

Do I Need a Lawyer?

It’s always wise to call an attorney after a motorcycle accident, especially if someone has been injured. That way, you’ll have support should the incident require legal action. 

Contact Our Motor Scooter Accident Law Firm For Help Today

For more information, please contact Bradley Law Personal Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free case evaluation today.

St. Louis Office
1430 Washington Ave Suite #226 St. Louis, MO 63103
(314) 400-0000

Kansas City Office
1509 NE Parvin Rd, Suite A., Kansas City, MO 64116
(816) 408-3448

Or if you would prefer to reach out to us online, please visit our contact us page.