Although e-scooter and e-bike crashes have led some to advocate for statewide regulations, most regulations are decided on the local level. Ten-year-old Duke Ommert died after an electric scooter crash in Leawood last year when a car struck him as he crossed the street mid-block. Duke’s death, other e-scooter and electric bike injuries (a nearly 300% increase in emergency room visits from 2017 to 2024) and warnings from doctors have led to local authorities passing regulations — but Duke’s parents wanted statewide rules. The deaths and injuries are rising as electric mobility becomes more common and the vehicles are easily available from online retailers. But the issue is complicated by some vehicles sold as “e-bikes” actually being much closer to motorcycles and not fitting into established e-bike categories. Industry trade groups warn of that distinction and are trying to highlight the differences between true e-bikes and e-motorcycles.
Read more: The Lawrence Times
