Scooters and Mopeds I didn't know that?

Just a few weeks ago two 14 year old boys were involved in an accident on what was reported to be a Moped. In reality it was a 49cc scooter that was loaned to them by the mother of one of their friends.

When informed that the driver was required to have a Motor Vehicle License, she replied "I didn't know that." This is the purpose of my blog on this subject.

I first bought and drove my first 2 wheeled powered vehicle back in 1974 when America first suffered through an Arab sponsored gasolene embargo and feul was rationed to alternate days of the week.

In NY where I lived my moped had to have insurance, have license plates and I had to wear a helmit.

Here in CT, about two years ago I bought a 49cc Scooter and added a number of accessories for safety and enjoyment. We are not required to wear a helmit or carry insurance, but we must have a valid automobile drivers license. Thus young kids may not ride this vehicle on city streets. I as an adult may not ride on any highway where the speed limit is a minimun of 50 mph which means no highway driving. sinc a 49cc scooter may not exceed 30 mph. Parents did you know that?

Parents did you know that a scooter with an engine that is over 49cc requires the driver to not only have a valid automobile drivers license, but to have taken a state mandated course and hold a valid motorcycle license in additio.

Parents did you know that these scooters and mopeds must be street certified by the CT=MVB?

Parents, did you know that all folks on these vehicles must have either a wind screen or wear eyeglasses as protection to your eyes?

Parents, do you let your licensed children ride scooter or moped without a helmit and protective clothing, or did you just say good-bye as if that will be the last time you will see them alive.

Mopeds and scooters compete for the same space as cars and trucks and whether the car hits the scooter or the scooter hits the car, its going to be bad for the scooter

Finally, in light of the recent accident involving the Scooter, You shold be aware that ALL 49cc scooters while some may have seating capacity for an additional passenger, they are all designed for only one person. That same frame can come with larger engines and heaver parts for those vehicles classified as small motorcycles.

Yes that mother who allowed two young children to ride her sons vehicle was not just ignorant of needing a drivers license, but much more as I have stated above and this may be costly to her.

sincerely Ron Goldwyn, a senior citizen.