With concerns about gas prices and the environment, mopeds have become more popular in recent years. Since they typically only travel around 30 mph, they are not allowed on interstate highways. For this reason, mopeds are particularly popular in residential areas and college campuses.
Unfortunately, if you are in a moped accident, it is much more likely that you will suffer an injury than if you are in a passenger vehicle.
Staying Safe on a Moped
Clearly, a person riding a moped is more vulnerable than others on the road, so taking the proper precautions are important in order to reduce the risk of injury. Be keen to recommendations and required safety procedures for moped drivers.
Obey Traffic Laws
Make sure to stop at all stop signs and red lights– even when there is a provision stating that you are not required to stop if your vehicle is under a certain weight. Many states require that moped and scooter riders stay at least three feet from the center line, even when making a left turn. Whether or not this is true where you are riding, it is a good practice to get into. You should also be sure to use all necessary signals in an attempt to keep other drivers and pedestrians aware of your intentions on the road.
Be Extra Watchful
We’ve all seen those bumper stickers that say, “Start Seeing Motorcycles.” This goes double for mopeds and scooters. Distracted driving and the small size of mopeds can inhibit other driver’s ability to see you. Never assume a driver sees you on a moped or that you will get the right of way, even if you should.
Drive Defensively
No matter what you’re driving, you should drive defensively. When you are driving a moped, which leaves you less protected and visible, this skill is especially important. If your choice is between being right or being alive, alive is always the better option.
Wear Protective Clothing
Whether or not they are required by law, you should wear glasses and a jacket. Wearing a jacket, or just longer sleeves can protect you from flying gravel or debris. Full-length pants are also advisable over shorts in order to prevent being struck or burned.
When a Moped Accident Happens
If you are in a moped accident, hopefully you will be able to escape serious injury. After an accident, it is important to communicate with the officer on the scene and let them know as many details as possible so that your side of the story is on record. As soon as you are able, it is also important to speak with a personal injury attorney.
Even if your insurance company, or the insurance company of the other driver involved seems to be cooperative in offering you a settlement, an attorney should verify that they are offering everything you need. At times, an initial offer can sound as if it is plenty, but other costs creep up, such as lost wages or long term care, and the moped accident winds up setting you back not only physically, but financially as well.
If you’ve been in a moped accident and haven’t talked to a personal injury attorney, it’s a good idea to talk to one and see what can be done. If you’ve lost a loved one, or have a family member who is injured too severely to pursue their own case, it is also a good idea to do what you can to help them move forward on a case. That way the injured person will have the best possible chance at getting the compensation they deserve.