While the terms motor scooter and moped are often used interchangeably, they actually have distinct definitions under Colorado state law in order to distinguish them from bicycles, motorcycles, and other two-wheeled vehicles with or without motors. Along similar lines, certain unique rules exist for motor scooter and moped owners that do not apply in the same way to people using other motor vehicles on public roads.
Perhaps most importantly of all, seeking civil compensation for injuries from Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Grand Junction can be more complicated than you might expect, especially if you try to do it alone. Fortunately, working with a capable and compassionate motorcycle accident attorney from Veritas Injury Lawyers can help improve your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Requirements for Moped and Scooter Riders?
In Colorado, a moped is a two-wheeled vehicle with a motor and a flat lower platform designed for the operator to stand upright on while in motion. A motor scooter, meanwhile, is a broadly similar vehicle designed for operators to sit down while in motion. The power input of either type of vehicle cannot exceed 50 cubic centimeters of engine displacement if gas-powered or 4,476 watts if electric-powered, or else it would legally qualify as a motorcycle and be subject to additional restrictions.
Like motorcyclists, moped and motor scooter riders must wear helmets while riding if under the age of 18, and they cannot ride on sidewalks or in pedestrian pathways. Unlike motorcyclists, however, moped and motor scooter operators only need a valid standard driver’s license to operate their machines legally on public roads, as opposed to a motorcycle endorsement from the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles or an equivalent certification from another state. If you were hurt in an accident while riding a moped or motor scooter, our Grand Junction attorneys are here to help.
Filing Civil Suit Over a Moped Crash
Provided that a moped or motor scooter operator is riding lawfully on public roads with all the required licensure and insurance coverage, they have the same rights and responsibilities as anyone else operating any other kind of motor vehicle. Accordingly, if you are riding a moped or motor scooter and someone who is driving recklessly collides with you, you likely have grounds to file a civil suit against them over any injuries you suffered through their negligence.
You may also be able to take legal action against certain third parties whose misconduct indirectly contributed to your moped or motor scooter crash in Grand Junction. These could include a manufacturer that sold you a defective machine or a local government body that failed to keep public roads in good condition. A member of our team can discuss the best path forward for your specific circumstances during a private initial meeting.
Contact a Grand Junction Attorney About Your Vespa or Motor Scooter Accident
While mopeds and motor scooters certainly operate very differently from motorcycles, they can still be dangerous to their operators in many of the same ways. If you were injured in a wreck while riding one of these vehicles, you have support available from dependable legal counsel experienced with Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Grand Junction.
Veritas Injury Law can provide you with custom-tailored and considerate legal support, fighting tenaciously to protect your best interests throughout your case. Contact us today to discuss your potential claim.
