Mopeds are interesting vehicles. They are a bit like a cross between a bicycle and a motorcycle, and they are extremely fuel-efficient. Unlike scooters, which have also recently exploded in popularity in San Francisco, mopeds ride in lanes alongside other vehicles. They do not typically ride off to the side or along the shoulder of the road. As such, there is a very real chance that mopeds could be involved in an accident. When they are, many people wonder about liability, due mainly to the fact that mopeds are much smaller than other vehicles. This fact however, has nothing to do with who is liable for the crash. If you have been hurt on a moped, it is important to speak to a San Francisco moped accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Determining Liability in Moped AccidentsLiability in moped accidents is determined just as liability is determined in any other vehicle accident. It first must be discovered which driver, or rider, violated traffic laws or showed negligence. Negligence is acting in a reckless or careless manner that causes another person, or people, to become hurt.
All drivers are expected to drive in a safe manner to prevent anyone from becoming injured, and moped operators, too, have a duty to drive reasonably and responsibly. When anyone on the roads fails to do this, they are liable for a crash. A San Francisco moped accident lawyer will collect evidence to determine who was liable for your accident.
Moped Laws in San FranciscoJust as drivers must obey traffic laws that pertain to them, there are also laws that pertain to moped operators. These laws include:
Moped operators are required to purchase license plates specific to mopeds, as well as identification cards. The cost for these is $18, but neither requires renewal.
Moped operators must obtain an M1 or M2 license to operate their moped.
All moped riders must wear helmets while they are on their moped.
These laws only apply to mopeds that are 406(a) models. They do not apply to 406(b) models, and riders of 406(b) models are not expected to wear a helmet if they are over the age of 16. When moped operators are found to be in violation of any of these laws, they can be found partly or wholly to blame in the event of a crash. Drivers can also be found liable if they violate any traffic laws and cause an accident as a result.
Were You Hurt in a Moped Accident? Call a Moped Accident Attorney in San FranciscoIf you have been hurt in a moped accident, it is important that you understand that you may be entitled to compensation. At the Brod Law Firm, a moped accident attorney in San Francisco can help determine who was liable for the crash, and help you obtain the compensation you need to make a full recovery from your injuries. We aggressively pursue insurance companies and hold them accountable in any type of vehicle accidents, and we will use that experience to help you, too. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 to schedule your free consultation.