Florida’s sunny and warm weather, combined with the rising cost of gas, make riding mopeds an enjoyable and economical way to travel. These days, all over the roads you will see men, women and even children riding around on a mini motorcycle known commonly as the moped. Mopeds are gaining popularity and because of the increase in the number of mopeds, there has also been an increase in the number of moped accidents.
Just as motorcycles are often not seen by other motorists and are frequently involved in catastrophic accidents, mopeds, too, are more likely to be involved in fatal accidents than any other passenger vehicle. Even when the moped driver is taking every safety precaution possible, accidents can and do happen, especially in a high tourist area such as the state of Florida.
If you have been injured in a moped accident, even if you didn’t have a valid license or weren’t wearing a helmet, you may be entitled to compensation from the motorist who hit you. It is very important to contact an experienced Florida moped accident attorney as soon as you are involved in a moped accident. An experienced attorney will make sure your rights are protected and get you the rights you deserve.
Florida Law
In Florida, if you are injured while riding a moped, Vespa, or other motorized scooter your no-fault/personal injury protection (PIP) insurance does not cover your accident or your injuries. Because your accident does not fall under PIP, you do not have to prove that a permanent injury has resulted to receive compensation for your pain and suffering. Only an experienced moped accident attorney can explain the confusing Florida accident insurance laws.
In most moped accident cases involving injury or fatality, you have four years from the date of the crash to file a claim. That may seem like a long time, but actually that time passes very quickly if you are dealing with serious injuries or permanent disabilities.
Contributors to Moped Accidents
The following are the most common causes of moped accidents in the state of Florida and around the country:
· Distracted motorists
· Fatigued motorists
· Blind spots
· Road hazards
· Inclement weather
· Speeding
· Alcohol/drugs
· Inexperienced motorists
Every summer Floridians hear horror stories about vacationers who have never been on a moped, and in some cases do not even have a driver’s license, getting caught up in the moment and driving recklessly. What started out as a joy ride can very often turn into a nightmare.
