Scooter and Bike Accidents Involving Children on the Rise in Kansas City

The Kansas City area is witnessing a troubling uptick in scooter and bicycle crashes involving children. According to a recent KCTV5 report, two serious accidents have already occurred in the area this week: a 9-year-old bicyclist in Kansas City was fatally struck in a crosswalk while lawfully riding with a green light, and a young rider on an e-scooter in Leawood suffered head injuries and fractures after being hit by a vehicle.

These tragic events serve as an urgent reminder: children are vulnerable on bikes and scooters, and multiple parties—drivers, property owners, municipalities—can share responsibility when safety fails.

Who Can Be Liable? Understanding Premises Liability & Negligence

When a child is injured while riding a scooter or bicycle, determining liability often involves examining more than just the driver. Some potential sources of responsibility include:

1. Negligent Drivers

• Failing to yield at intersections or crosswalks

• Distracted driving, speeding, or impaired driving

• Turning across bike lanes without checking for children

2. Property Owners or Municipalities

Premises liability may arise when hazards on sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, or in front of buildings contribute to a crash. For example:

• Poorly designed or maintained driveways or sidewalks

• Lack of proper signage or visibility at curb cuts, entrances, or crosswalks

• Broken pavement, obstructions, or debris that force a rider into traffic

3. Shared Liability (Comparative Fault)

Missouri applies a comparative fault system. Even if a child is partially responsible, liability may still be apportioned, reducing but not eliminating recovery if the child’s share is less than 51%.

Safety Tips for Parents — Help Your Child Ride Safely

While many risk factors are beyond one’s control, parents and caregivers can take proactive steps:

• Require a helmet every time (and ensure it fits properly)

• Use additional protective gear: gloves, knee and elbow pads

• Teach and practice safe intersection behavior: dismount and walk across crosswalks

• Stay visible: bright clothing, lights, reflectors

• Supervise younger riders in high-traffic or complex areas

• Educate about road rules: always stop at intersections, obey signage, be predictable

• Choose safer routes: low-traffic streets, bike lanes, sidewalks (where lawful)

• Check equipment regularly: brakes, tires, steering

• Set clear rules about distractions: no phones or earbuds while riding

Filing a Personal Injury Claim for a Minor — What You Should Know

Navigating the legal process for a child injured in an accident has some special considerations:

1. Guardian / Parent as Plaintiff
   Because minors cannot file contracts or lawsuits directly, a parent or guardian typically acts as the legal representative.

2. Statute of Limitations & Preservation
   Missouri law generally gives five years for personal injury claims, but acting promptly is critical—evidence and witness memories fade.

3. Establishing Duty, Breach, Causation & Damages
   Your attorney will need to show:

   • The defendant owed a duty of care

   • They breached that duty (e.g. negligence)

   • The breach caused injury

   • Quantifiable damages (medical bills, pain & suffering, future care, etc.)

4. Avoiding Unfavorable Settlements
   Insurance companies often push early offers. Having counsel ensures you evaluate the full cost of the injury, including long-term care or rehabilitation.

5. Court Approval (Minor Settlements)
   In many cases, settlements for minors must be approved by the court to protect the child’s interests and confirm fairness.

6. Future Damages & Lifelong Effects
   Claims may include recovery for ongoing treatments, therapy, permanent impairment, or emotional trauma—especially important for children whose bodies and lives change over time.

A Compassionate Reminder & Call to Action

Protecting your child is your top priority. When that safety is breached due to someone else’s negligence, you should not have to navigate the aftermath alone. If your child has been injured in a scooter or bicycle accident, our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal system, advocate fiercely, and seek full compensation for your family.

Reach out today for a free consultation — we’re on your side.