Accidents involving mopeds have been steadily increasing across the state, especially in the Tri-County area and places like Myrtle Beach. These accidents are drawing attention from South Carolina safety advocates and lawmakers who believe it is time to make changes that will protect everyone on our public roads.
Officials across the state have cited current laws and a general lack of regulation as a significant cause behind the rise in moped wrecks. In the past two months alone, Berkeley, Dorchester, and Orangeburg Counties have seen numerous traffic accidents involving mopeds. These accidents have resulted in four deaths and many injuries, according to local authorities.
Here are a few details about the issue and what is being done:
- According to reports from South Carolina Highway Patrol, there were 805 moped crashes statewide in 2014. This is compared to just 191 moped accidents during the same year in nearby Georgia. South Carolina has more moped wrecks and deaths in 2014 than the past 3 years in Georgia combined.
- Moped riders in South Carolina can’t be arrested for driving under the influence or face subsequent penalties because mopeds are not legally classified as motor vehicles. Lawmakers have been making efforts to close this DUI loophole.
- Some officials are considering regulations that prevent mopeds from traveling on roads with high minimum speed limits, as most moped don’t reach more than 35 mph.
- Other regulations being considered including mandatory helmet laws for all riders and requirements for riders to wear reflective vests.
Moped accidents, like motorcycle wrecks, often result in serious or even fatal injuries due to riders’ lack of protection. Because of these increased risks, new laws to protect riders and others who share the road with them are incredibly important.
At George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers, our personal injury lawyers help victims after they’ve been harmed in auto accidents and were not at fault, including accidents involving mopeds. We know moped riders depend on full and fair compensation to cover their damages – including their medical bills and pain and suffering – and we use our experience to help them in their fight for justice!
If you have questions about your right to compensation after a moped accident, our attorneys are available to discuss your case during a FREE consultation . We serve clients throughout the state and offer free home and hospital visits if you can’t make it to us!