Motorcycle accidents are all too common today. However, scooter and moped accidents are on the rise as well. So much so, even famed actor George Clooney was involved in a scooter accident that resulted in injury. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has studied motorcycle, moped, and scooter accidents. Recently, the NHTSA found that 92,000 injuries and almost 4300 deaths resulted from accidents involving a motorcycle, moped or scooter in the U.S. That is just for the year 2014. Even more alarming, the CDC, also known as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, found in a recent study that nearly 1 out of 5 moped accidents resulted in a traumatic brain injury.
Motorcycles Vs. Scooters Vs. Mopeds
Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds are quite different. A moped typically has an engine that is no larger than 50 CCs. A scooter's engine usually ranges from 50 CCs to 150 CCs but can be bigger. Small motorcycles usually start at 250 CCs. Motorcycle wheels are usually larger than the wheels on a scooter or moped. Moreover, a motorcycle is usually much heavier than a scooter and moped. Finally, another major difference is that the motorcycle's engine is typically attached to the frame while the scooter's engine is typically a part of the rear suspension.
Are They Safe?
Are scooters and mopeds safe? That question may draw different opinions. If you compare a scooter or moped to a car, then more than likely not. A car has doors, windows, airbags, seatbelts, and other safety features that can keep a driver more protected from injury during an accident. This is because when you are riding a scooter or moped, you are likely to just have on a helmet and maybe some light protective gear. While a scooter or moped may be more economical and gas efficient, be sure to use caution when operating one.
Scooter and Moped Safety Tips
Be sure to review some of these scooter and moped safety tips.
1. Always wear a helmet. As you can see above, traumatic brain injuries are common when accidents occur on a scooter or moped. Wearing a helmet can aid in safety.
2. Check the weather. It is best that you do not ride on days that it may rain. Always check the weather prior to riding and make sure that you ride when conditions are optimum.
3. Follow all traffic rules. Just because you may be on a scooter or moped does not mean that you do not have to follow all traffic rules. Be sure to obey all laws and drive safely.
4. Be visible. Make sure that you are not weaving in and out of traffic and be sure that others on the road can see you. Also, consider wearing bright clothing as well.
Have You Been Injured In A Scooter Accident?
The Personal Injury Attorneys of the Nicoletti Law Firm understand that you may have suffered injuries due to an accident on your moped or scooter. You deserve to be compensated for those injuries. Call us anytime at (727) 845-5972. We offer a FREE no-obligation consultation where an attorney will review your claim with you at no cost. We also are available 24/7 and do not charge any upfront fees or pre-suit costs. We only collect an attorney's fee when we recover for you. Be safe out there everyone!
