Indianapolis Moped Accident Lawyer
Many people in Indiana depend on mopeds and scooters for their transportation because they are fuel efficient, and some types of cycles don’t require a license for you to operate them. Their presence is increasing on Indiana roads, and, as a result, the number of accidents involving mopeds and scooters is increasing as well. The state of Indiana has enacted more laws that pertain to the registration and licensing of mopeds and scooters.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a moped or scooter accident, you may be entitled to compensation if you were injured by an irresponsible operator of a motor vehicle.
What Are The Indiana Moped and Scooter Registration and License Requirements?
In 2015, Indiana enacted new laws requiring the registration and licensing of mopeds and scooters. This law divides motor-driven cycles into categories based on their engine size. The licensing and insurance requirements can vary for mopeds and scooters so it’s important that you understand the registration requirements that allow you to comply with the laws.
- Class A. This is a motor-driven cycle that is defined as a vehicle with an engine size of no more than 5 horsepower with a seat for the rider and no more than three wheels. If you have a Class A vehicle, you are required to have a license and liability insurance, and you must have a valid Indiana driver’s license with either a motorcycle endorsement of MDC-A restriction or a valid motorcycle learner’s permit. You will need to provide proof of ownership and insurance when you go to register your vehicle at the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet.
- Class B. A Class B is a motor-driven cycle that’s defined as a motor vehicle with an engine displacement that doesn’t exceed 50 cubic centimeters. If you drive a Class B moped or scooter, you are not allowed to exceed 35 miles per hour and you can’t have any passengers. In order to drive a Class B motor driven moped and/or cycle on Indiana public roads, you must be at least 15 years old and have a valid identification card with an MDC-B endorsement. No insurance is required for a Class B vehicle.
What Are Some Causes of Indianapolis Moped Accidents?
As a moped and/or scooter operator you have a responsibility to operate your vehicle in a safe manner and you should wear a helmet. As a rider of a moped/scooter, if you’re in an accident you could receive severe and/or life-changing injuries in an accident caused by another motorist’s error.
The most common causes of moped/scooter accidents include:
- Irresponsible Drivers: The most common cause of moped/scooter accidents is other drivers of trucks or cars being distracted. These drivers may be on their cell phones and not paying the proper attention to the road. Additionally, drivers may focus on vehicles that are larger and overlook smaller vehicles. Mopeds tend to move more slowly than other vehicles and a driver of a car or truck may come upon you quickly without realizing you are even there or moving slower.
- Defects in the Road. Broken and/or uneven roads, broken pavement, potholes, and poor road maintenance may cause you to lose control of your moped and crash.
- Bad Weather. Rain and snow may make the road slippery and make it harder for the drivers of other motor vehicles not to see you.
- Impaired Driver. A driver who may be intoxicated or under the influence of drugs may be less alert and makes them more likely to be involved in a crash.
Is There a Statute of Limitations for a Moped Accident Injury Claim?
Yes, there is. The statute of limitations for an accident lawsuit claim in Indiana is two years. Be sure to have your lawsuit filed before that two years expires, or you will be forfeiting your opportunity to have your claim heard in court.
Call an Indianapolis Moped Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is involved in a moped/scooter accident, you should immediately see your doctor. Sometimes serious injuries, such as a traumatic brain disorder may not show up immediately.
Get the name, vehicle registration, and insurance information of all other vehicles involved in your moped accident.
Report the accident to the police and wait for them to arrive at the scene of the accident. While waiting, if possible, take as many pictures as you can of all vehicles involved in the accident and the accident scene itself.
If you or a loved one are injured in an Indianapolis moped accident, you should contact Truitt Law Offices to handle your claim. The Indianapolis personal injury attorneys at Truitt Law Offices will be able to navigate the often complicated and complex issues involved in your accident and get you or your loved one the compensation you deserve.
