Over the years, many forms of public transportation have become less popular. The COVID-19 pandemic has only served to further this trend. Many people who are wary of infection or seeking a more private commute might be curious about alternative forms of travel.
Therefore, the growing popularity of motor scooters should not come as a surprise. These compact vehicles offer a multitude of benefits, including:
- Environmental friendliness
- Greater fuel economy
- Lower price
- Ease of use
- Ability to navigate heavy traffic
Take these advantages at face value, and motor scooters might seem like an obvious choice. But one question remains: How safe are motor scooters in California? In this short guide, we’ll cover the facts you need to know.
What Qualifies As a Motor Scooter?
Motor scooters are defined by certain common features like handlebars, no seat, 2-3 wheels, and an attached motor. They are generally broken down into three categories:
- Class A scooters can move at speeds of 30-40 mph and require a license for operation
- Class B scooters can move at speeds of 20-30 mph and do not require a license for operation
- Class C scooters can move at speeds of 20 mph or less and do not require a license for operation.
If you are a beginner, you might opt for a Class C scooter and work your way up with experience. For those who are safety-conscious, this is the best path forward.
How Do Motor Scooter Accidents Happen?
Motor scooter accidents are becoming increasingly common. So how do these accidents happen?
Anything can happen when you are on a busy road, moving at fast speeds. But here are some of the most common scenarios that lead to injuries:
Equipment Malfunctions
All vehicles can break down, and motor scooters are no exception. But because the operator is left vulnerable to outside forces, a simple blown tire can have catastrophic results. Whether you’re faced with a handlebar collapse, brake failure, or motor issues, malfunctions are a big area of concern.
Road Hazards
Some harmful factors are external rather than internal, but they can be equally dangerous. Hazards could come in the form of a pothole, debris on the road, or waste. Any of these factors can lead to an accident.
Driver Inexperience
Motor scooters look like simple vehicles, but they require a fair amount of skill to operate. If you are inexperienced as an operator, take the time to gain experience in a safe setting. Pay special attention to your ability to balance on two wheels and react to different scenarios.
These are just a few of the factors that make riding a motor scooter fairly dangerous. To avoid serious injury in case of an accident, always wear a DOT-approved helmet and other pieces of safety gear.
Common Injuries from Motor Scooter Accidents
Without the proper safety gear, serious injuries are almost a guarantee. But even with a quality helmet, gloves, and outfit, you could still become injured.
According to the Nature Public Health Emergency Collection, hospitals in major U.S. cities have seen a surge of motor scooter-related injuries since 2017. These injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Limb amputation
- Disfigurement
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal injuries
If you become involved in a motor scooter or slow moped accident and sustain a serious injury, seek medical attention immediately.
And if the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, call an attorney as soon as possible to pursue the justice you deserve.
