Riding a Vespa or motor scooter can be a fun and low-cost way of transportation. However, Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Michigan do happen, often with serious consequences. As smaller vehicles, they offer little protection in a crash, leaving riders vulnerable to serious injuries. At Thurswell Law, our attorneys are experienced in helping injured riders understand their rights and determining whether there is a case. Our team of motorcycle accident lawyers could investigate the facts and apply Michigan scooter and traffic laws to build a strong case on your behalf.
Michigan Laws for Vespas and Motor Scooters
In Michigan, the terms Vespa and motor scooter can refer to a variety of small motorized vehicles. However, legally, they fall into different categories depending on their specifications. Most are classified as either mopeds or electric skateboards.
Mopeds are defined by Michigan Compiled Laws § 257.32b. A moped is defined as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with a 100 cc engine capacity or less. In addition, the top speed should not exceed 30 miles per hour on level ground, and manual gears are not required. If your motor scooter exceeds any of these specs, it is legally a motorcycle and requires registration, insurance, a license endorsement, and compliance with helmet rules.
Michigan classifies e‑scooters as electric skateboards. Riders must follow the same road rules as drivers and cannot carry more than one person. Speed limits do apply according to Michigan Compiled Law § 257.660. There can be even stricter limits depending on the model and road type.
There are important laws that must be noted. For mopeds and scooters, if you are a rider under the age of 19, you must wear a helmet under Michigan Compiled Law § 257.658. In addition, riders must keep to the right, ride no more than two abreast, not pass between lanes, and yield to pedestrians when on sidewalks according to Michigan Compiled Law § 257.660. Understanding these Michigan laws is key to accident claims involving Vespas or motor scooters.
Common Accident Scenarios
Vespa and motor scooter riders in Michigan face unique crash risks, often due to:
- Left-turning cars that fail to yield
- Vehicles passing too closely
- Road defects such as potholes and gravel
- Unsafe passing or lane changes by other drivers
Because these riders are more exposed, even low-speed incidents could cause serious injuries. Our attorneys thoroughly review crash reports, traffic laws, and any witness statements to identify negligence.
Why Do You Need Experienced Representation?
If you have been injured while riding a Vespa or motor scooter in Michigan, legal claims over a wreck hinge on classification, coverage, and fault. Our lawyers have extensive experience in motorcycle and scooter accident cases. We could:
- Identify the correct vehicle classification (moped or motorcycle)
- Determine insurance coverage
- Show negligence, even in low-speed crashes
- Work with medical providers and experts
- Speak with witnesses and police officers
- Negotiate with the insurance companines
- Take the case to trial, if necessary
Contact us today and let us get started on your claim.
Call Our Michigan Attorneys To Discuss Your Vespa or Motor Scooter Crash
Vespa/motor scooter accidents in Michigan may cause serious injuries, and navigating Michigan’s unique laws contributes to the complexity of the situation. Our attorneys at Thurswell Law could help you understand your rights and handle the burden of dealing with the insurance companies. Experience gets results. We work on contingency and only get paid if you are compensated for your injuries. Call us now to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we could help you.
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