Sometimes the activities that seem to offer the greatest amount of amusement are also the deadliest. Just like their 'big brother' - the motorcycle - mopeds (or minibikes) are alluring for the sense of freedom and thrills they offer. What could be more fun than racing over bike trails at seemingly innocent speeds of up to forty miles an hour?
But drivers seem to forget that just like a motorcycle there is no physical protection for a person in the case of a collision except perhaps a helmet (if one is worn).
Now, the number of moped deaths is extremely small - according to one source having doubled from a mere fifty to a high of one hundred over the past four years - in comparison to the total account of traffic fatalities in general (normally the number languishes around 40,000).
Yet moped injuries and deaths have caught the attention of Washington D.C. and as the new Congress gets underway - legislation is moving forward in various committees concerning a number of aspects of moped riding - beginning with the required use of a helmet for riders under the age of 18 or 21 (depending on the state).
In addition, the fact that mopeds can be driven on public roadways in many states yet does not always require the acquisition of a driver's license has also evoked pending legislation.
Finally, in some states there are no drinking and driving statutes related to mopeds - a loophole that is expected to close over the next year.
Greg Baumgartner is a personal injury attorney and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping injury victims seek civil justice. For a free no obligation consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Texas call the Baumgartner firm.
