KMBC 9 Editorial Aug. 21, 2026: Pay close attention on the roads around schools, neighborhoods
Each year as the school year begins, we remind drivers to slow down, give themselves extra time and pay close attention around schools and neighborhoods.
This year, the increasing number of electric scooters and e-bikes on our streets means drivers need to be more alert than ever.
Children and teens on these fast-moving devices can appear quickly at crosswalks, on sidewalks and in the roadway.
Their speed and mobility can make them harder for drivers to anticipate.
Recently, a 13-year-old boy was injured after being hit while riding an electric scooter to school in Leawood.
Thankfully, he is now recovering at home.
Keeping children safe is a shared responsibility.
Drivers need to slow down, eliminate distractions and expect the unexpected, especially before and after school.
At the same time, parents whose children ride e-scooters or e-bikes need to make sure they understand how to operate them safely and follow the rules of the road.
A few extra seconds of caution from everyone can help make sure every child gets home safely.
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