The Difference Between Scooter and Motorcycle Accidents in West Palm Beach

You might assume that all accidents on two-wheeled vehicles are the same. However, the difference between a motorcycle accident and a scooter accident in West Palm Beach may become clear as you attempt to pursue compensation. Different laws may apply to these different vehicles, and there are also distinct insurance implications. The best way to discuss your unique issues is to speak with a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer.

What Is the Definition of a “Scooter” in Florida? 

The term “scooter” encompasses many vehicles. Even though you might call a vehicle a “scooter,” it may actually fall under Florida’s definition of a “motorcycle.” According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, a motorcycle is any vehicle with a seat and up to three wheels. A driver’s license is mandatory if you want to drive a motorcycle in Florida.

Florida also has a separate definition for “mopeds.” These vehicles are similar to motorcycles, but they cannot exceed 2 brake horsepower. In addition, they must have a maximum speed of 30 miles per hour. While some of these mopeds are electric, they may also have an internal combustion engine with a maximum displacement of 50 cubic centimeters. A driver’s license is also necessary to operate a moped in Florida.

In addition, Florida sets “motorized scooters” apart from other vehicles. These vehicles have no seats, and they cannot be titled or registered (unlike motorcycles and mopeds.) Motorized scooters cannot have maximum speeds higher than 30 miles per hour.  No driver’s license is required, and riders are expected to follow all of the same rules as cyclists.

Motorcycle vs. Scooter Accidents: Pursuing Compensation 

You can obtain insurance that covers your injuries for future motorcycle accidents. However, you cannot simply turn to your no-fault PIP coverage that you might already have with a four-wheeled road vehicle. If you do not obtain injury insurance prior to your motorcycle or moped crash, you can still pursue compensation by filing an injury claim against an at-fault driver who caused your accident.

Motorcycles, mopeds and motorized scooters are excluded from all PIP benefits. This is somewhat confusing, since motorized scooters fall under the same general category as bicycles in Florida. But while cyclists can turn to their PIP car insurance for coverage after crashing, motorized scooter riders cannot. However, you could still file a claim against an at-fault motorist for causing your accident.

Because of the different rules regarding scooters, mopeds, and motorcycles, there are also different traffic regulations to consider when establishing fault. The exact details of scooter, moped, and motorcycle crashes in Florida can be confusing. For guidance based on your specific situation, speak with an experienced injury lawyer.

Work With an Experienced West Palm Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 

Whether you were injured while riding a scooter or a motorcycle, you deserve compensation for your injuries if someone else is at fault.  To pursue coverage for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, it makes sense to speak with a lawyer. Choose Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather today to get started with an experienced West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer. We’ll help you pursue justice, closure, and just compensation.

Sources: 

flhsmv.gov/driver-licenses-id-cards/motorcycle-rider-education-endorsements/motorcycle-motor-scooter-moped-and-motorized-scooter/

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0322/0322ContentsIndex.html