Abstract
The basic issue concerning mopeds is whether they should be considered as being bicyles—and, basically, be free of regulation, or as motorcycles—and thus be subject to all regulations applicable to motor vehicles. In an effort to resolve this issue, European accident data, Virginia crash data, and the laws of the several states were reviewed.
In terms of crash, injury, and fatality data, mopeds are more like motorcycles than bicycles. The laws of the various states lack a uniform approach in dealing with mopeds as a form of transportation. There is little agreement on the specific areas in which there is a need for regulation and how comprehensive this regulation should be.
From the review made for this study, it was recommended that a separate category of vehicles be established for mopeds, as they are neither bicycles or motorcycles. It was further recommended that the vehicles be registered, that their operators be licensed, that maximum allowable speed and horsepower be 30 mph and 1.5 bhp, and that liability insurance be made available for purchase by moped owners.
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