Moped riders vulnerable in accidents

This blog often discusses the special dangers faced by motorcyclists. Most of the same dangers are faced by moped riders.

Under Nevada law, “moped” refers to any motor-driven scooter, cycle or similar vehicle. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles has a number of requirements, but for most purposes the most important elements that make a vehicle a moped and not a motorcycle are that its engine has no more than 50 cubic centimeters, and its maximum speed is no more than 30 mph.

Mopeds are convenient in many ways for driving short distances, and they can be a lot of fun to operate on a nice day. They’re also generally more affordable to buy and maintain than cars or motorcycles. A moped driver must hold a driver’s license, but does not need the special Class M license required for motorcycle riders.

Under a new law coming into effect October 1 this year, moped drivers must wear a helmet.

While they can’t travel at the same speeds, moped drivers are just as vulnerable as motorcyclists when it comes to collisions with other vehicles. Car and truck drivers often fail to see moped or motorcycle riders and violate their right of way. And, since mopeds, motorcycles and similar vehicles don’t have all the safety features of passenger cars, riders face the potential of serious injury or death in almost any collision with a larger, heavier vehicle.

When moped riders are injured in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, they may recover compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. The injured and their families can talk to an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more about their options.