Mopeds and scooters have increased in popularity across South Carolina because of their affordability and superior gas mileage.
However, driving these two-wheel vehicles carries higher risks than driving cars. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, moped and scooter operators are 35 times more likely than car drivers to die in a traffic accident, americanownews.com reports.
The most logical explanation for the elevated risk is that mopeds are smaller and lighter than other vehicles and they lack safety features that protect people in cars and trucks. Drivers of mopeds and scooters have less chance of surviving a wreck.
Safety Tips
- Experts advise moped operators to always stay to the far right side of the vehicle in front of them, according to abc10up.com. Then there is less of a chance that the moped will be in an automobile driver’s blind spot.
- Moped and scooter operators need to use their headlights at all times. Even during daylight hours, headlights help make mopeds and scooters visible.
- Operators must make sure their vehicles are in prime condition before every excursion. Headlights, brake lights and signal lights are especially a concern. Be sure there are no cracks on the surface or burned-out bulbs.
- Monitor tires to make sure the treads and air pressure are in good shape.
- Be seen! Wearing reflective or brightly-colored clothing like shades of yellow and orange can make a difference when riding mopeds and scooters because they’re easy to spot.
- Wear a helmet! Riders should get in the habit of wearing a Department of Transportation-certified helmet. A closed-face version is the best kind, because it provides the most protection for your face. Even though it is not required, it can save your life!
- Wearing gloves and boots whenever you travel on your moped or scooter will offer protection for your hands and feet from roadrash and other injuries.
Staying Aware and Alert at All Times
It’s important for moped drivers to avoid distractions and focus their attention on the road.
Even listening to music can be hazardous to a moped operator. It can drown out the sound of nearby traffic or even screeching tires of an approaching car.
Furthermore, moped riders must be alert to changes in the weather. Slick roads are particularly treacherous for a two-wheeler.
Need Legal Help?
Moped, scooter and motorcycle accidents can happen in a split second and cause serious injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a South Carolina moped, scooter or motorcycle accident because of somebody else’s careless driving, contact our South Carolina personal injury attorneys at Joye Law Firm. Call (888) 324-3100 or use our online contact form so our attorneys can offer you advice about your rights.
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