In the past few years, the popularity of motor scooters has grown exponentially. Given Miami’s warm climate and large number of tourists, scooters offer a viable solution for avoiding traffic and navigating the city efficiently.
Motor scooters are slower than motorcycles and usually don’t require a motorcycle license. However, questions remain about their overall safety. Keep reading to learn more and avoid a personal injury.
What Counts As A Motor Scooter?
Florida law includes specific definitions for motorcycles and autocycles. However, there is no specific definition for motor scooters, so they’re generally grouped with motorcycles. These are the requirements to legally operate one in Florida:
- You must have a valid driver’s license.
- The vehicle must be registered.
- The vehicle must be titled.
- If the engine displacement exceeds 50 cc, you must have a motorcycle endorsement.
It’s important to note that “motor scooters” (two- or three-wheeled vehicles with a seat) are different from what Florida law classifies as “motorized scooters.” Motorized scooters require operators to stand up. They do not have to be titled or registered, and they can’t exceed a speed of 20 mph.
Potential Dangers Of Motor Scooters
Generally, motorcycle accidents lead to severe injuries because motorcyclists don’t have the protection of a vehicle frame around them. Motor scooters don’t go nearly as fast, but because they leave operators exposed, accidents can still lead to serious injuries.
Before you take a motor scooter for a spin around Miami, make sure you’re aware of some of the main dangers:
Driver Inexperience
In most cases, you don’t need a motorcycle endorsement to operate a motor scooter in Miami. This means that anyone with a driver’s license can drive a scooter on public roads. Operating a two-wheeled vehicle is much different from driving a car, and some people don’t take the time to familiarize themselves with the scooter before taking it out.
Distraction
Inattentive drivers are responsible for numerous car accidents every year. Likewise, texting, daydreaming, or otherwise taking your focus off the road while driving a motor scooter can lead to a crash.
Poor Visibility
Motor scooters are much smaller than cars. Their size makes them easier to maneuver on busy streets, but it also makes them less noticeable to drivers. A distracted driver can easily strike a motor scooter, causing serious injuries to the operator.
Poor Road Conditions
Motor scooters have smaller, narrower wheels than cars. Many also have poor-quality suspensions. This combination makes it easy for an operator to lose control.
What To Do After A Motor Scooter Accident
After a motor scooter accident, taking the following steps may help protect your health as well as your chances of filing a successful claim:
- Exchange license and insurance information with other involved drivers.
- Photograph the accident scene.
- Call 911 and ask for police and medical personnel.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Consult an attorney.
As a general rule, you shouldn’t accept an insurance settlement offer without talking to a lawyer first. Insurance companies will often try to settle early for far less than your case is worth.
Contact Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys Today For A Free Consultation With A Miami Personal Injury Lawyer
Were you injured in a motor scooter accident in Miami? You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. The legal process can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it alone.
At Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys, our Miami personal injury lawyers are ready to help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve. For more information, contact us today to arrange a free consultation.
For more information, please contact the experienced Miami personal injury lawyers at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys today. We offer free consultations.
We proudly serve Miami-Dade County and its surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys
169 E Flagler St Suite 1639, Miami, FL 33131
Phone: (305) 916-6455
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 25.7745507, -80.1906096
