How safe are mopeds?
The question on the prospective moped customer’s mind is, “Are mopeds safe?” The answer is a resounding yes and here’s why:
Mopeds offer a wide variety of features that will keep the rider safe. Mopeds have a bright light system that allows you to see the road ahead and at the same time to be visible to the other vehicles on the road.
The drum braking system is not affected by wet weather. In bicycles, the braking system can be affected if the wheels get too wet, but with a moped this is not the case. The braking system is sealed from the elements.
Rider stability is increased with wider tires to increase contact to the road. Shock absorbers keep the rider from bouncing all over the road if hitting pot holes. The engine is below the seat, this makes for a lower center of gravity that will keep the rider more stable.
A moped adopts the maneuverability of a bicycle even at their 30 mph top speed. This enables the rider to avoid obstacles or other vehicles on the road. In addition, mopeds have the ability to ride in the bicycle lanes and not compete with cars for space on the road. The fact that you are not going as fast as a car will keep you safer in a lot of situations. This combined with the fact that you still have the maneuverability of a bicycle will help you avoid many accidents that you couldn’t in a car.
All braking, lighting and speed controls can be operated while keeping both hands on the handlebars. There is no need to be taking your eyes off the road when performing these operations. This makes safety paramount. Most states require you to wear a helmet. This in itself helps to make the moped a very safe vehicle to operate. Your helmet could be the deciding factor between a fatality and just a sore back the next day.
The biggest safety factor on a moped however, is you. If you are mature enough to follow the rules of the road, if you can handle wearing a helmet, if you can judge properly if you should turn onto a busy road or choose one less traveled, you are safe enough to be riding a moped. Keep in mind, if you are in an accident no one is going to blame your moped for the accident. You have to be a responsible and safe rider when using a moped.
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