Massachusetts Personal Injury Library
Motorcycle and Moped Accidents in Massachusetts
Moped and motorcycle accident injuries are similar in many respects, but differ based on the design of the vehicle and common usage. When it comes to safety, the design of both vehicles will impact how they respond to various road conditions and accidents.
Motorcycle Design vs. Moped Design
When comparing motorcycle and moped accidents, one must consider certain facts such as how each vehicle is designed to handle the road.
Smaller Tires on Mopeds
For example, the smaller tires on mopeds make them more susceptible to accidents as a result of pavement irregularities, potholes, or even speed bumps, while motorcycles are heavier and have larger tires, which decrease the chances of these kinds of accidents.
Better Handling System on Motorcycles
Motorcycles, on the other hand, are heavier and have the ability to go faster, which can be both positive and negative as far as rider safety is concerned.
Many riders believe that motorcycles have a better handling system than mopeds; however, more motorcycle accidents are caused by the operator losing control of the vehicle, which can then cause the motorcycle to leave the road and result in serious or fatal injuries. Mopeds’ lighter weight and reduced speed usually do not result in these types of accidents.
Causes of Moped Accidents
Most moped accidents are caused by the moped colliding with another vehicle, such as a car or truck.
Driver Inattention
Due to their small size, many motorists simply don’t pay attention to these small vehicles on the road – even though they are required by Massachusetts’ law to safety share the road.
Light Moped Weight
The light weight and completely exposed nature of mopeds do not give the operator any protection in the event of a collision with another vehicle, which is why helmet laws, speed restrictions, and the time of day an operator can drive a moped are all covered in Massachusetts traffic laws.
Motorcycle accidents involving other vehicles are usually just as dangerous, since an open motorcycle only provides slightly more protection than a moped does.
Overall, a Massachusetts moped accident could result in similar injuries and damages to a motorcycle accident when Massachusetts traffic laws are not followed. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motorcycle or moped accident in Massachusetts because of someone else’s negligence, it’s important to speak to an attorney about your rights.
If You’ve Been in a Motorcycle or Moped Accident
Oftentimes, motorcycle or moped accidents result in serious or fatal injuries to the people riding them. If you, or your loved one, becomes involved in a Massachusetts motorcycle or moped accident, it would be wise for you to contact an experienced Boston motorcycle accident attorney.
When you are interviewing personal injury attorneys ask critical questions, like:
- How long have you been practicing?
- What is the largest settlement or verdict you’ve obtained for your clients in traffic accidents?
- Do you have experience with moped and motorcycle accident cases?
Attorney Tom Kiley is an avid motorcyclist who has 30+ year experience representing injured victims in motor vehicle cases. He has personally won million-dollar settlements and verdicts for his clients, and will fight for you with tenacity and knowledge of the law until you get the compensation you deserve.
Call the Kiley Law Group today: 888-208-1695.
Free Consultations.
