How Safe Are Motor Scooters in Lancaster, PA?

November 27, 2023 | Personal Injury

How Safe Are Motor Scooters in Lancaster, PA?

Motor scooters are becoming more popular in Lancaster and across Pennsylvania. Scooters use less gas and create less pollution than cars. They also cost less to buy and maintain than motorcycles. 

While scooters can be a fun way to travel, there are also risks to consider when riding. Lancaster, PA has rules about driving scooters safely and legally.

What Counts as a Motor Scooter in PA?

According to the PA Vehicle Code, a motor scooter has:

  • An engine 50 cubic centimeters or less
  • An automatic transmission
  • A maximum speed of 25 mph or less on a flat surface
  • Operable pedals

Scooters meeting this definition do not require a motorcycle license to operate. A regular Class C driver’s license is sufficient. Scooters are exempt from state inspections. Riders under 21 must wear a helmet, and all riders require eye protection.

What Are the Rules for Scooters in Lancaster, PA?

Lancaster, PA provides rules for keeping scooter riders safe. 

The following are rules for driving scooters in Lancaster, PA:

  • The motor must be 5-brake horsepower or less
  • Scooters must pass a vehicle inspection
  • Scooters need a registration plate
  • Riders must follow the state’s motorcycle helmet law
  • Riders must wear eye protection, like glasses or a face shield
  • Drivers need a motorcycle license if the scooter does not have an automatic transmission or the motor is more than 50 ccs
  • Riders must have the minimum auto insurance required in Pennsylvania

Unfortunately, scooter accidents happen often and often lead to severe injuries.

Common Scooter Injuries

When a scooter rider gets in an accident, they can be injured badly. The rider often does not have protection from injuries. 

Common injuries from scooter wrecks are:

If you are in a scooter accident, get medical care right away. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Quick medical care helps you recover. It also helps with insurance claims later. Delays in getting medical care can hurt your injury case.

What Causes Scooter Accidents in Lancaster, PA?

Most scooter wrecks are caused by driver errors. Some common causes include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Poor road conditions
  • Inexperienced riders
  • Aggressive driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Speeding
  • Not seeing scooters on the road

Head-on collisions are the most common scooter accidents. Accidents also happen frequently when scooters make left turns.

Dangers and Risks of Scooters

Although laws try to protect scooter riders, there are still risks involved. 

Risks of riding scooters in Lancaster include:

  • Road Conditions – Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can easily cause a scooter crash. Scooters are more unstable than motorcycles on poor roads.
  • Vehicle Breakdowns – Like any vehicle, scooter parts can malfunction. This includes issues with brakes, tires, steering, and the motor. Riders should know how to identify and fix problems.
  • Inexperience – Safely operating a scooter requires skill that improves over time. Inexperienced riders may feel overconfident but lack the skills to react to hazards.
  • Visibility – Small scooters can be hard for other motorists to see. Riders should take precautions like avoiding blind spots and clearly signaling turns. Intersections are high-risk areas.
  • Sharp Turns – Taking turns on scooters requires learning and skill. Excessive speed or other errors can cause loss of control.

Despite risks, riders can mitigate danger by wearing helmets, knowing traffic laws, and riding defensively around cars and trucks. 

What Should I Do After a Scooter Accident?

If you’re in a scooter accident, the following steps are essential: 

  • Call 911 for emergency help
  • Document the accident scene
  • Take photos and videos with your phone
  • Get contact information from eyewitnesses
  • Don’t provide a statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company until you speak to a lawyer 
  • Keep all documents, reports, records, and receipts related to the accident and your injuries
  • Note your recovery process and conversations with medical providers 

Talk to a personal injury lawyer after a scooter accident. This can improve your chance of getting full compensation. An experienced lawyer can handle the insurance claim process for you while you focus on recovery.

If you’ve been injured in a personal injury, please contact Marzzacco Niven & Associates at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today:

Harrisburg Law Office
945 East Park Drive, Suite 103 Harrisburg, PA 17111
(717) 231-1640

York Law Office
2550 Kingston Road, Suite 210A York, PA 17401
(717) 995-8998

Wyomissing Law Office
833 N. Park Road, Suite 103, Room A Wyomissing, PA 19610
(717) 388-2325

Chambersburg Law Office
79 St. Paul Drive, Suite 1 Chambersburg, PA 17201
(717) 388-2378

Carlisle Law Office
354 Alexander Springs Road Carlisle, PA 17015
(717) 995-8732

Carbondale Law Office
30 Lincoln Avenue, Suite 101 Carbondale, PA 18407
(717) 995-8810

Lancaster Law Office
2173 Embassy Drive, Ste 123, Lancaster Pa 17603
(717) 616-2954

Lebanon Law Office
937 Willow Street, Suite D Lebanon, PA 17042-1140
(717) 995-8963