As scooter usage is on the rise, so too are scooter accidents. Personal injuries caused by road conditions, other vehicles or driver error can be quite serious, sometimes fatal. As the sales of these mostly unregulated vehicles increase, some experts are asking for regulations to keep riders safe. One of the regulations proposed is a mandatory certification class offered by the Motorcycle Safety Association. Currently the requirement is in place for motorcyclists.
The California Highway Patrol categorizes motorcycles and scooters differently. If a vehicle is over 150 cc with a riding seat and 3 or less wheels, it is a motorcycle. Both mopeds and motorized bicycles are considered motorized vehicles because they contain a propulsion mechanism. Scooters can be ridden while in a standing position. All of the vehicles are required to be used with an approved safety helmet endorsed by the Dept. of Transportation. In the case of a motorized scooter, an approved bicycle helmet is legal. The most severe head injuries are usually suffered by those who are not wearing safety helmets.
In California, any type of cycle with a motor or a motorcycle must be legally registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles. While scooters do not need to be registered, a rider is required to have either a license or driver’s permit. Special license plates are also mandated by law. Riders should wear protective gear. The proper driver’s license issued by the DMV in California for a motorcycle is an M2 driver’s license or an M1 for a motor-driven cycle.
With the increase of usage of these types of vehicles there is also the increase in serious injuries from accidents. Common injuries include brain injuries, spinal injuries and neck injuries. If you have been involved in a scooter accident or motorized vehicle accident, you will need the advice of a personal injury attorney to determine the proper procedure for your personal injury accident claim. Jeff Dawson is an Irvine accident lawyer who can assist you in your case. He has the experience and background to advise you on how to successfully file a claim with the chance of receiving the largest settlement to which you are entitled. Contact the law office of Jeffrey Dawson today for a free consultation about your case.
Good idea! Can be considered a learned thing, ok!