Do you know what a Vespa is? You have probably seen them around Charleston — Vespas, mopeds, and other small scooters. They are smaller and slower than a motorcycle, and some drivers admit they get annoyed when they get behind one in heavy traffic. However, for some people, these scooters make perfect sense. They are cheaper than cars, cheaper on gas, and easier to park downtown.
But are they safe? Scooters are slower than vehicles, easy to miss in a blind spot, and they do not have protection in the event of a crash. If a car runs into a scooter, it is the rider’s body that takes the full hit. That means when accidents happen, the injuries are often serious. Navigating the aftermath of Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Charleston County can be challenging without the help of a motorcycle wreck attorney. Schedule a consultation with The Farmer Law Firm today.
Even if drivers do not expect to see scooters and mopeds in busy traffic, they have the right to share the same streets as cars. Nonetheless, it is easy to miss these scooters in a blind spot, making it an easy scenario for an accident. Sometimes, when a driver turns left, they may not see a scooter in their line of sight.
In addition, scooters are much slower than cars. Many scooters are just not fast enough to keep up with fast-moving traffic. When cars weave around them or tailgate, it increases the risk of a collision. And while state law gives scooters the right to use the road, not every driver respects that. These are some scenarios that make it easy to see how vespa/motor scooter wrecks in Charleston County happen.
Even at low speeds, a vespa/ motor scooter collision in Charleston County can be devastating. A scooter rider has no protection—no airbags and no frame like a car does. In other words, the rider is completely exposed. Even a slight hit can cause a fall onto the pavement that can cause broken bones or head injuries. In more serious crashes, the results can be more severe.
For families, the financial side adds to the stress. Medical bills, time off work, and long-term treatment costs can pile up quickly.
South Carolina separates scooters by engine size. A moped is generally 50cc or less and limited to about 30 miles per hour. A larger motor scooter, like a Vespa, is treated more like a motorcycle. Both types must follow traffic laws, but the rules about licensing and insurance can differ.
What matters in a vespa/motor scooter crash case in Charleston County is often the same: who caused the crash, and how did it happen? If a driver failed to yield, was texting, or ignored traffic laws, they may be responsible for the injuries that follow.
At our firm, you are not just another file. We are a small team — two lawyers and a paralegal — and when you call, you speak directly with us. We take the time to listen to your story, explain your options, and stand with you through the process.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a vespa or motor scooter accident, call today to learn how we help injured individuals pursue accountability and move forward after vespa/motor scooter accidents in Charleston County.