Motor scooters have seen a rise in popularity as both a casual and economic mode of transportation. While they may be ideal for short distances and special roadside pathways, they also pose the risk of a serious accident when used in heavy and/or high-speed traffic.
Motor scooters are two-wheeled vehicles with step-through frames which are designed to carry only one person; they should not be confused with motorized scooters, on which there is no seat and the operator stands upright, or mobility scooters, which often have four wheels. However, motor scooters do not require a motorcycle endorsement for operation, as they generally travel no faster than 30 M.P.H. with an engine displacement of 50cc or lower.
While on the road, motor scooters are subject to the same laws as all other motor vehicles. Due to their smaller size and slower speeds than cars and trucks, however, their accidents can differ significantly. Common accidents involving motor scooters include:
Loss of control – Poor road conditions or a sudden maneuver can result in lost control due to their small tires, light weight, and high center of gravity.
Rear-end collisions – Even motor scooters travelling below the speed limit may not always be seen in time for an approaching vehicle to slow down. For this reason, operators of motor scooters, like motorcyclists, should always assume that they are unseen by other drivers on the road.
Sideswipes – Motor scooter riders who drive in-between lanes of stopped or slowed traffic run the risk of being sideswiped or struck by a vehicle changing lanes.
Attention and caution are the keys to staying safe on a motor scooter. Here are some helpful tips to avoid accidents and resulting injuries:
– Stay on local streets which do not experience heavy traffic
– Avoid streets on which the speed limit greatly exceeds the maximum speed of the motor scooter
– Do not drive too close to parked cars or in-between lanes of slowed traffic
– If possible, avoid riding on wet roads
– Although helmets are not required by Illinois law, wearing one is highly recommended to avoid risking serious head and brain injuries
– Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night, to increase visibility
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident while riding a motor scooter, contact America’s Consumer Lawyer, LLC for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.
Lastly, America’s Consumer Lawyer is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that
