Traffic Safety Laws in Kansas

Child Car Seat Laws

Child restraint laws in Kansas have several key components:

  • Children under 1 year old should ride in a rear-facing car seat.
  • Children under 4 years old should be kept in a rear-facing seat as long as possible.
  • Children between 4 and 8 years old must ride in a booster seat unless they weigh more than 80 pounds, are taller than 4 feet 9 inches, or are traveling in a vehicle where only a lap belt is available.
  • Children between 8 and 14 years old must be wearing a seatbelt whenever the vehicle is in motion.

If you need help making sure your child safety seat or booster seat is correctly installed, visit one of the many free fitting stations located throughout the state. If you can't afford a child safety seat or booster seat, the fitting stations also have information on programs available to assist low-income families in obtaining this important piece of safety equipment.

Reporting Intoxicated Drivers

Since drunk driving is a significant safety hazard to all Kansas residents, you are encouraged to call 911 if you spot a driver who is doing some or all of the following:

  • Drifting into opposing traffic.
  • Almost striking another vehicle or a stationary object.
  • Driving outside legally designated roadways.
  • Excessively swerving or weaving across the road.
  • Improper signaling.
  • Erratic and sudden braking.
  • Tailgating.

When you call to report a suspected drunk driver, you'll be asked to describe your location, the vehicle, and any suspicious behaviors you have witnessed. An officer will then be sent to the scene to investigate. Do not attempt to take any action by yourself, since an intoxicated person may become violent when confronted.

Headlight Usage

Headlights are an important, yet often overlooked, piece of safety equipment for your motor vehicle. You should use your headlights whenever it is difficult to see other vehicles on the road, such as dawn, dusk, or during poor weather. You should use low-beam headlights when other vehicles are approaching.

Bicyclists who wish to travel on the state's roads at night must have a white headlight that is visible up to 500 feet. You are also required to have a rear red reflector visible between 100 and 600 feet.

Electronic Devices and Texting

Electronic device usage is banned for all learner permit and intermediate license holders.

Texting is illegal for all drivers of all ages.

Helmet Laws

While motorcycle helmets are strongly encouraged, helmets are only legally required in Kansas for those 18 years old and younger.

Bicycle helmets are only legally required for riders under 15 years old who live in Lawrence.

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