How Safe Are Motor Scooters in Destin, FL?
Paul Brannon | December 9, 2021 | Personal Injury
Motor scooters are growing in popularity, which is no surprise. They’re a fun and easy way to get around, especially for residents of big cities. Plus, they offer some amazing benefits.
The initial sticker price of a scooter will be much less than a standard passenger vehicle. In fact, you may be able to find a reliable one for as little as $1,000.
They also require a lot less fuel. At 80-110 MPG, you’ll find that you can save a lot of money by choosing a scooter over a car.
If you’re convinced that motor scooters are the future, it’s time to get practical. Is it legal to drive a motor scooter on Florida roads? And more importantly, are these vehicles a safe way to get around? Read on to learn more.
Can I Drive a Motor Scooter on the Roads in Destin, FL?
Motor scooters and motorized scooters are two separate vehicle types. Put simply, a motor scooter has a seat, while a motorized scooter does not. Motorized scooters are not street-legal in the state of Florida.
Under Florida statutes, motor scooters are not defined as a separate class. Therefore, they are categorized as motorcycles. This means that an operator must have a valid driver’s license in order to drive their vehicle.
To legally operate your motor scooter on Florida roads, you will need to register the vehicle to obtain a title and license plate for it.
While you can legally operate a motor scooter on the roads around town, you’ll need to avoid highways. Lower-powered engines can’t reach the minimum speed limit for these roadways. Riding a vehicle that’s not equipped to keep up with the flow of traffic can be extremely dangerous.
Are Motor Scooters Safe?
Fortunately, there’s no proof that motor scooters are any more dangerous than other vehicles. But they should be used with care.
As is the case in motorcycle accidents, motor scooter riders are especially vulnerable to injury when they become involved in an accident. With this in mind, proper safety gear and defensive driving are a good idea.
Common injuries from motor scooter accidents include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries
If you are thrown from your scooter, you could strike your head on the pavement or a nearby object. This scenario could lead to a traumatic brain injury, which can be especially dangerous if left untreated.
That’s why it’s a good idea to seek medical care after a collision, even if you feel okay.
Road Rash
Road rash happens when exposed skin scrapes along the pavement. The condition can vary in severity, just like a burn.
If your road rash is mild, you may be able to clean and treat the injury at home. Otherwise, you’ll want to consult with a doctor to avoid infection.
Broken Bones
Motorcyclists are at great risk of broken bones because their bodies are not protected by the vehicle or a seatbelt. The same holds true for motor scooter riders.
Some broken bones are relatively minor, like a fractured wrist, which will usually heal in a matter of months. Others can have devastating long-term consequences, like a broken back.
Internal Injuries
A serious collision could lead to internal injuries, including brain hemorrhages, punctured lungs, torn blood vessels, and organ damage.
Any of these injuries could lead to excessive treatments and hefty medical bills. If you were injured in an accident with a motor scooter, it may be time to consult with a personal injury attorney. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you to explore any compensation you may be entitled to.
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Northwest Florida
If you need legal assistance, contact the Destin personal injury lawyers at Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We have two convenient locations in Northwest Florida:
Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Fort Walton Beach Office
975 Mar Walt Dr
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
(850) 863-5297
Brannon & Brannon Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Destin Office
4507 Furling Ln Suite 214
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 790-0243