Accidents Rise with Motor Scooters’ Popularity

Sep 23, 2013 | Auto Accidents

The number of mopeds, motor scooters and motorcycle has increased on Virginia roads as a result of higher gas prices, and accidents have increased in recent years as well.

A 2011 University of Florida study noted that sales of scooters and mopeds have been rising significantly, while many roads and intersections lack proper traffic controls to keep their riders safe.

A motor scooter accident claimed the life of a 35-year-old Richmond resident on Aug. 25, according to news reports. A car struck the motor scooter at the intersection of Fairmount Avenue and North 23rd St. in Richmond.

The crash trapped the scooter driver beneath the sedan. Bystanders used a car jack to lift the car off of the driver. Witnesses and nearby residents were not surprised by the accident.  They said that reckless drivers often speed through the intersection because there is no stop light to slow them down.

The scooter driver was wearing a helmet as required by Virginia law. The law also prohibits scooters on freeways. Moped and motor scooter operators who are DUI defendants must be in full compliance with court requirements to legally ride.

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there have been 2,062 crashes involving mopeds in the last five years, with nearly all of them causing injuries and 31 crashes causing deaths.

News laws went into effect July 1 in Virginia, requiring moped drivers to carry a driver’s license and every driver and passenger to wear a helmet and register the vehicles.

As is the case with motorcycles, motor scooters and mopeds are small and have a narrow wheel base and many motorists overlook them when approaching an intersection and scanning for traffic.

If you have been involved in a car crash, motor scooter accident, motorcycle collision, or other auto wreck, talk with a Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer who will work to get you the compensation you deserve.

Geoff McDonald and Associates: 804-888-8888.

FREE CONSULTATION

No Fees Unless We Win







    How Are Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents in Virginia?

    Power trucking accidents are one of the most dangerous types of road accidents, and they differ significantly from car accidents in several ways. The most apparent difference between a truck and a car is their size and weight. Trucks are much bigger and heavier than...

    What to Do if You’re Hurt in a Virginia Multi-Vehicle Crash

    Any car accident has the potential to cause catastrophic injuries and property damage, and multi-vehicle accidents can dramatically increase those risks.  Multiple-vehicle accidents involve three or more vehicles, which also complicates determining fault and...

    How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Truck Accident Case in Virginia?

    Truck accidents are some of the deadliest vehicle accidents that occur across Virginia, especially when commercial trucks collide with smaller vehicles. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a truck collision, you may ask, “Do I have a valid truck accident case?”...

    Is It Illegal to Tailgate Behind another Car in Virginia?

    Following too closely in Virginia is a traffic infraction punishable by a fine beginning at $81. Tailgating in Virginia is not only a moving traffic violation that could result in demerit points on your driver’s license, but is also dangerous to drivers and passengers...

    Our Case Results

    $4,700,000
    Industrial Plant Accident

    Attorneys for the Plaintiff: Jeffrey A. Breit and Justin M. Sheldon Our client was killed in an industrial accident when an unauthorized worker was operating an overhead crane and pinned our client between…

    $1,750,000
    Rear-End Crash

    Our client suffered a traumatic brain injury, facial trauma, a dislocated hip and severe abdominal trauma when she was rear-ended at a traffic light by a tractor trailer. Suit was commenced shortly after…

    $1,250,000
    Assault of Log Truck Driver

    Attorneys for the Plaintiff: Geoffrey R. McDonald, Frank H. Hupfl, Justin M. Sheldon.
    Our client suffered a traumatic brain injury after being assaulted and knocked to the ground while fueling his logging…

    $860,000
    Drunk Driving Crash

    Our client suffered neck/head trauma and a broken wrist after his vehicle was struck by a drunk driver while he was stopped at a traffic light. Upon rejection of a settlement offer of $325,000, our litigation…

    $700,000
    Rear-End Collision

    Attorneys for the Plaintiff: Justin M. Sheldon and Geoff R. McDonald, Richmond
    GMA’s client was injured as a result of a rear-end collision in the greater Richmond area. The crash occurred a little after…

    Client Reviews

    Cheryl and Rich were wonderful and patient with me throughout the case. All of my questions were answered. They really helped me through this tough time and made sure to let me know what was going on. I really thank Geoff…

    Troy Saxby

    My experience with GMA staff was first rate. They always represented in a professional way and made sure I had everything as far as paperwork. Kara and Theo made sure to answer all my questions, was always available and so…

    Shirley Brown

    Geoff McDonald & Associates is the team that you want on the field if you’re in need of top notch legal defense! Mr. Taj Henley demonstrated true customer service skills and his expertise made me feel comfortable throughout the…

    Julian Reeves

    Geoff McDonald & Associates: Thank you Taj Henley for all of your hard work and dedication! Very expeditious in my case and I was very satisfied with my settlement. Will recommend to all my friends and family!

    Shareema Williams

    Geoff is number one in my book and I especially appreciate the support of Mr Henley

    Ebony Conwell

    I was so pleased with the knowledge and support from Mr. Taj Henley

    Kideem Frierson

    Thank you Geoff McDonald &Associates. A special thank you to Mr. Taj Henley

    Denise Conwell

    Mr. Taj Henley displays exceptional professionalism for Geoff McDonald & Associates, along with commendable communication skills and customer service. By his work ethic and commitment to the people he serves his value to any…

    Justin Fitzgerald