Are Mopeds as Dangerous as Motorcycles?

With never-ending traffic jams, increasing gas prices, and a sea of dangerous drivers out there, many New Yorkers have decided to ditch other forms of transportation and give mopeds a try. A moped is a small motorcycle that travels at about the same speed as a bicycle. Although a moped might sound less exciting than a motorcycle, it is a gas-efficient and wallet-friendly option for transportation. If you don’t want to work up a daily sweat on a bicycle, a moped is the stylish and easygoing choice. However, even with their slower speeds, mopeds can be just as dangerous to riders as motorcycles when they are involved in collisions.

If you have been injured in a scooter or moped accident in New York and another driver was at fault, you could be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages, future expenses, and more. The Case Handler attorneys at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP understand how devastating a moped accident can be, and we are ready to fight on your behalf while you recover.

Moped/Scooters Safety Tips

Most mopeds are not equipped with fancy safety features, so you must be vigilant and follow some basic rules in order to stay safe on the road. Mopeds are also small in size, making the rider pretty vulnerable to the elements during an accident. Here are a few safety suggestions when driving a moped:

• Always wear a helmet
• Stay visible
• Drive slowly
• Assume that cars can’t see you
• Always check to make sure you have working lights
• Wear colorful clothes
• Do not wear shorts or short-sleeve shirts
• Ride in good weather conditions
• Do not drink and drive

Of course, every motorized vehicle has its own set of possible dangers. Although mopeds do not possess powerful engines, they can still be a source of danger in certain situations. One problematic feature of mopeds is that they are much quieter than the average motorcycle, so cars don’t always know they’re coming.

If you’re thinking about getting a moped over a motorcycle because you believe scooters are safer, consider the fact that even the most experienced bikers get into accidents, regardless of whether they’re sitting on top of a motorcycle or a scooter. And the main reason isn’t the speed of the bike—the main reason is that drivers don’t always see you. When a car changes lanes and doesn’t notice you, it can result in a split-second, life-altering accident.

A moped accident can be just as dangerous as a motorcycle accident in New York, because in both instances your whole body is exposed to the impact of the crash. Unlike a car accident, where you’re protected by steel, a moped accident will probably leave you with some degree of injury. Even something as simple as falling off the scooter can end with you having a fractured arm. Scooters are dangerous, just like any other form of two-wheeled vehicle transportation.

Interesting Fact: Because mopeds are more susceptible to accidents caused by roadway defects, like potholes, loose gravel, or uneven lanes, the state or local government may be held accountable for injuries due to such an accident.

New York Moped Classifications

You need the proper paperwork to be able to legally drive a moped. The New York DMV has three categories for scooter vehicles, and each one comes with its own specific requirements and restrictions:

• Class A: reaches top speeds between 30 and 40 MPH, requires a Class M or Class MJ license, and can operate in any traffic lane.
• Class B: reaches top speeds between 20 and 30 MPH, requires any class license, and can only operate in either the right-hand lane or along the shoulder.
• Class C: reaches top speeds of 20 MPH or less, requires any class license, and can only operate in either the right-hand lane or along the shoulder.

Mopeds and scooters have the same requirements as a New York motorcycle license. A moped owner must have a full registration, as well as a valid Class 1 or Class M/MJ driver’s license to operate it (depending on the class of vehicle as stated above).

Got into an Accident While on a Moped? Call Us!

Scooter and moped accidents can result in traumatic injuries or worse. Not only can they have profound consequences that last a lifetime, but they might leave you out of work and stuck paying a stack of medical bills you cannot afford. Let our New York accident lawyers help you make a case and get you the compensation you deserve, while you focus on healing. Call our office at 929-223-4195.