Riding a motor scooter can be a lot of fun, but unfortunately, sharing the road with larger and faster vehicles can be a challenge. Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Spring, TX can cause serious injuries, even if the motor scooter was not going very fast at the time of impact.
If you were injured in an accident that involved a motor scooter, reach out to the motorcycle injury attorneys at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris. We can handle the claims process from start to finish, always seeking the best possible outcome for you.
Is It a Scooter or a Moped?
Scooters and mopeds are different types of vehicles. A Vespa is a brand name for a vehicle, and some Vespas are motor scooters and some are mopeds. Scooters have the following characteristics:
- A flat platform for the rider’s feet with no pedals
- Engines that are in the 50cc to 250cc range
- Capable of higher speeds
Mopeds have these characteristics:
- Functional pedals
- An engine that is 50cc or less
- Limited to lower speeds
Road rules may differ depending on whether the vehicle is a scooter or a moped. A Spring attorney who handles motor scooter accidents knows the key differences between these types of vehicles.
Rules for Vespa and Motor Scooter Riders
Operating a motor scooter may seem easier than operating a larger vehicle, but actually, motor scooter riders need to follow the same rules of the road as other drivers. There are some specific requirements based on whether the vehicle is a moped with an engine under 50cc or a scooter with an engine over 50cc:
- Operating a moped requires a valid driver’s license, having the vehicle registered, and carrying liability insurance
- Operating a scooter requires a Class M motorcycle license and liability insurance
- Motor scooters must be inspected annually to be legally operated on public roads
- Mopeds are not allowed on interstates
- Mopeds are not allowed on sidewalks
- Helmets are required for all moped riders and scooter riders under the age of 21
When investigating a motor scooter accident in Spring, a lawyer may determine liability by finding out if the motor scooter or moped rider was following the rules.
Seeking Compensation in a Vespa/Motor Scooter Injury Claim
An injured person files a personal injury claim in order to seek compensation for the damages caused by the liable party in the motor scooter accident. Damages typically include both economic and non-economic factors. Examples of economic damages are medical expenses, lost wages, and damage to personal property, while non-economic damages can include pain and suffering, emotional turmoil, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of companionship, and permanent disability.
An experienced lawyer can determine the total amount of damages and then pursue full compensation, whether that be through skillful negotiations or a court trial.
Consult with a Spring Lawyer About Motor Scooter Accidents
If you were injured in a motor scooter accident, you should not have to worry about paying your medical bills. You could be entitled to full compensation for all the damages that occurred due to the accident, but you need an experienced lawyer to investigate the accident and seek compensation.
Contact an attorney at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris to schedule a free consultation. We have handled cases involving Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Spring, and we can help you navigate your injury claim process.
