Fort Wayne Moped Accident Lawyer

A bunch of scooters parked in Indiana.

Many Indiana residents ride mopeds for fun or as their primary means of transportation. These vehicles are popular because they’re cheap, fuel-efficient, and easy to park. Unfortunately, due to their smaller size, weight, and the fact that they offer little to no protection for the rider, an accident involving a moped could result in severe or potentially fatal injuries.

If you’ve been injured in a moped crash, the Fort Wayne moped accident lawyers at Truitt Law Offices want to hear from you. The attorneys at our law firm have more than 70 years of combined legal experience representing Indiana accident victims. We understand how the other party’s insurance company will approach your claim, and we’ll fight hard to secure maximum compensation for you.

For a free consultation to discuss your moped accident case, call or visit our contact page today.

What Are Indiana’s Moped Laws?

Indiana has very specific regulations for different kinds of vehicles referred to as mopeds. Mopeds are separate from motorcycles, which have their own regulations.

Laws governing mopeds have two categories: Motor Driven Cycle — Class A, and Motor Driven Cycle — Class B. Here’s how the laws break down for the two classifications:

Motor Driven Cycle – Class A:

  • Any vehicle with an engine that produces between 50 cc and 5 horsepower, has a seat or saddle for the rider, and does not use more than three wheels to travel.
  • Riders are required to have a standard driver’s license, as well as insurance coverage and proper registration.
  • Can be used on streets and highways.

Motor Driven Cycle – Class B:

  • Any vehicle with an engine that produces up to 50 cc of power, has a seat or saddle for the rider, and does not use more than three wheels to travel.
  • Riders are required to have either a standard driver’s license or a moped license, as well as proper registration. Insurance coverage is not required.
  • Can be used on streets, but not highways.

Additionally, Indiana allows electric scooters to be used on streets and bike paths, but not highways, as long as the engine produces less than 50 cc of power. Electric scooters do not require a license, registration, or insurance.

Finally, vehicles that fall into the Motor Driven Cycle — Class B category are only allowed to travel up to 35 miles per hour. As most mopeds fall into the Class B category, this is the effective statewide speed limit for these vehicles.

All Indiana drivers under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet or eye protection when riding a motorcycle, moped, or electric scooter.

What Are The Dangers of Mopeds?

a moped parked by a hedgeDespite the convenience and other benefits that mopeds offer, there are some inherent dangers to riding these types of vehicles.

Not all moped riders are aware of the rules and regulations they should be following, which means that they may not use helmets and eye protection. Moped users who ignore state regulations also take their vehicles on roads where they aren’t allowed can also put themselves and others at risk.

Mopeds also offer less protection to riders compared to occupants of a passenger car. That’s because the rider isn’t enclosed and sits closer to the ground, making the force of impact in an accident particularly violent.

The small size of mopeds also makes it more difficult for other drivers to see them. If a driver doesn’t see a moped rider, they might sideswipe him/her when changing lanes or turning.

What Are The Most Common Injuries From Moped Accidents in Indiana?

Some of the most common injuries from moped accidents include:

What Damages Can Be Recovered After a Moped Accident Injury in Indiana?

If you’re injured in a moped accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation for a wide range of losses. The potential damages you could receive after a moped accident reflect both your physical injuries and other losses related to the crash, including:

  • The cost of your past and future medical bills
  • The value of any lost wages from the time you had to take off work due to your injuries
  • Reduced earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Lost quality of life
  • Loss of their financial and emotional support

The amount of compensation that you may be able to receive after a Fort Wayne moped accident will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, their long-term impact on your life, and whether you share any fault for the accident. An experienced moped accident lawyer can review your claim and push for a full and fair award for you.

What Should You Do After a Fort Wayne Moped Accident?

It’s important to take appropriate steps after a moped accident to protect your right to compensation and maximize the value of a potential insurance claim or lawsuit. Here’s what to do immediately after a moped crash:

  • Call 911: Moped accidents often result in severe injuries, so you’ll likely need immediate medical attention. Even if you have no obvious injuries, there may be internal injuries that will require examination from a medical professional.
  • Take photos: Take as many pictures of the accident scene and your injuries as you can. Take note of any nearby hazards that may have contributed to the accident, as well as any surveillance cameras that may have recorded what happened.
  • Collect contact information:  Get insurance information and contact information from every party involved in the accident. If there are any witnesses to the accident, get their names and phone numbers as well.
  • Save records: Save all your medical records and receipts, as well as any pay stubs showing your lost wages. These documents are crucial to substantiating your losses in an insurance claim or lawsuit.
  • Talk to an Indiana moped accident lawyer: Indiana’s Statute of Limitations on personal injury claims is two years, so you want to get started on your case as soon as possible.

Visit Our Fort Wayne Personal Injury Law Offices

Contact a Moped Accident Lawyer in Fort Wayne Today

Moped Accident Lawyers - Ft. Wayne, IN - Truitt Law OfficesThe skilled moped accident lawyers at Truitt Law Offices can help you get the compensation you’re entitled to after an accident. Call or contact us for a free consultation today. We’ll discuss your accident and explain your rights and legal options.