Many people use mopeds and scooters for inexpensive and easy transportation in Indiana. While the rules and regulations for their use are minimal, riders must still carefully follow the laws for them.
If you have been injured in a moped or scooter accident, you need a dedicated moped accident attorney from Wagner Reese, LLP, to represent your case. Our attorneys are widely known for their responsive, energetic, and aggressive representation. Our attorneys have been selected for both Rising Stars and Super Lawyers® lists, which are highly esteemed nationwide.
Definition of Mopeds and Scooters According to Indiana Law
According to Indiana Law, “A moped, or a motorized bicycle, is a double (2) or triple (3) wheeled vehicle propelled by a battery-powered motor or an internal combustion engine.” These vehicles must have a 50 cc motor or less to be considered a class B motor-driven cycle (MDC).
Registration and Licensing Requirements for Moped/Scooter Riders
Mopeds and scooters are required to be registered in Indiana and must have a valid moped plate. Indiana moped registration requirements can be fulfilled at any BMV branch. Indiana has no insurance requirements for registering a moped, and operators only need to bring proof of ownership of the moped along with the registration fee.
In 2014, Indiana started requiring moped drivers to be 15 years or older. The individual must have a state-issued ID or a valid learner’s permit with a Class B MDC endorsement. After taking a written test at any licensing branch, drivers can earn a license or permit.
Helmets and Safety Equipment Regulations
Indiana mandates that any rider 18 years of age or under wear eye protection and a safety helmet when operating a moped. Like motorcycle accidents, scooter accidents can result in serious injury. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a moped accident, an Indiana motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get compensation.
Like other Class B MDCs, a moped must contain a fully functioning headlamp. Note that Indiana moped regulations restrict drivers from holding packages in their hands if the moped is being used for a delivery job.
Rules for Operating Mopeds/Scooters on Indiana Roads and Highways
A moped may be driven on many roads in Indiana. Indiana scooter laws state that an operator must remain in the far right lane closest to the shoulder unless completing a left-hand turn. Mopeds and scooters are restricted from using interstate highways, no matter the situation. This restriction includes driving down major Indiana interstate highways.
Scooters must be kept off roads with on-ramps and off-ramps since they are interstate highways. Those highways have signs stating, “No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such slow speed as to block or impede the reasonable and normal movement of traffic.” The maximum speed limit under Indiana law for a scooter is 35 mph, which makes it both unsafe and illegal to operate a moped on highways. It is also illegal to ride a moped on Indiana sidewalks.
Traffic Laws Specific to Moped/Scooter Riders
Many people claim that a moped or scooter is simply a motorized bicycle used as a safe and efficient means of transportation. Current Indiana motorized bicycle regulations agree with this concept per their definition of a moped or scooter. In Indiana, a moped or scooter traveling on a flat surface can travel at a maximum speed of 35 miles per hour.
In recent years, scooter accidents have had some residents calling for stricter and safer rules regarding the use of mopeds. Presently, Indiana only requires riders who are 18 years of age or under to wear eye protection and a helmet. Indiana allows anyone 15 years or older with an Indiana ID to operate a moped rather than being required to complete a driver’s license test.
Since a driver’s license is not needed, many Indiana riders who have lost their driver’s license have switched to driving mopeds. This raises the question of why someone who lost their license should be given the opportunity to operate a scooter with no license, helmet, or insurance. Residents claim that scooter drivers are placing themselves and others in danger.
Driving any vehicle, whether a car or moped, comes with great responsibility. Mopeds can make their drivers much more vulnerable due to their slim profile and small size. Wagner Reese, LLP encourages you to drive your scooter safely and protect yourself by wearing a helmet to avoid injury.
Penalties and Fines for Violating Moped/Scooter Laws
If moped and scooter riders commit an Indiana traffic violation, which is a Class B or Class C infraction, they could face a fine or jail time. Traffic violations in Indiana can include texting while driving, failing to yield the right of way, and speeding.
A class B infraction includes operating a motor vehicle while consuming an alcoholic beverage on a public highway. It is punishable with 180 days in jail and a fine of $1,000 or less.
A class C infraction can include the illegal operation of a road-worthy vehicle with a .02% BAC or higher, with a penalty of up to two months in jail and a $500 or less fine.
Wagner Reese, LLP Can Help With Your Moped or Scooter Injuries
If you have suffered severe injuries from a scooter or moped accident in Indiana, you require aggressive legal representation for your personal injury case. Our law firm is dedicated to providing our clients with the individual attention and utmost respect that they deserve.
Our Indiana moped accident attorneys pride themselves on successfully litigating cases for their injured clients. We are excellent listeners and want to ensure every detail of your story is used throughout the investigation of your moped accident.
Let our decades of experience, accolades, and awards prove that we can provide you with the ultimate legal counsel. Contact us today or use our secure online form to get in touch with an experienced moped accident attorney at Wagner Reese, LLP.
