Laws About Moped Scooters
Each state has its own set of laws regarding moped scooters. While many areas covered by law are pretty much the same, there are also some very real differences, including whether the driver must be licensed and whether the vehicle must be registered and licensed. Virginia is one of the states that do not require any type of driver or vehicle licensing.
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What is a Moped Scooter?
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Almost every state has a designation on the books about what constitutes a moped scooter. For the most part, any two-wheeled, chain-propelled bike is considered a moped. Usually the maximum engine size or output is 50cc for a chain-propelled bicycle. But some states do consider a vehicle with an engine output up to 150cc to be a moped.
Helmet and Other Equipment
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Some states require that riders of moped scooters be helmeted, while others don't address the issue, especially for adult riders. States that don't require a helmet will often require that riders wear some type of eye-protecting goggles; Illinois is one state that requires that riders protect their eyes but not necessarily their heads.
Headlights are often required, especially if the moped is going to be driven after dark. If the vehicle does not have tail or brake lights, it must at least have rear reflectors. A moped scooter may be required to have a horn, audible for a minimum number of feet. At least one state, Iowa, requires that a moped scooter be equipped with a safety flag that flies in the air above the vehicle.
When shopping for a moped scooter in California, you need to make sure you look for one that has an engine muffler; it's one of several states that require one. You might also want to know the laws in your state regarding the minimum height of the seat from the ground before you purchase one of those cute mini-choppers.
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How Fast Can it Go?
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There are moped scooter laws that specify the maximum speed at which the vehicle can travel. It's usually 30 mph, although it is occasionally 35. Even if a moped scooter is capable of moving faster, it will seldom be stopped unless it is actually speeding; going 35 in a 25-mph zone is a good way to get a ticket.
Stopping Power
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Due to the low power output of the engine, most state laws set the breaking-power limit at 3.0 horsepower. Anything more powerful could result in a moped stopping too quickly and flipping end over end. Of course, higher output engines require more braking power, which is why a few states have the limit set at 5.0 horsepower.
Obey Traffic Laws
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A moped scooter is a motor vehicle and the driver is expected to abide by the same traffic laws as any other vehicle. Violations of traffic laws while riding a moped will result in a citation and possible impounding of the vehicle. Always ride with the flow of traffic and never operate the moped on a regular bicycle path or on sidewalks or other pedestrian pathways.
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