Are Scooters Safer Than Motorcycles?

Scooters are commonly seen in Southern California, particularly in big cities like San Diego or Los Angeles. They have given people another option for easier transit and parking in high-traffic areas. 

Unfortunately, many people think that scooters are safer than motorcycles. However, both scooters and motorcycles are more prone to danger on the roads. Scooters operate at lower speeds and are smaller. Some are also electric which means they make less noise than motorcycles. 

Motorcyclists are often in danger as well since many of them fail to pay attention to scooters. When comparing scooters vs motorcycles, they both have risks. Maho Prentice, LLP is a personal injury law firm that represents victims of scooter and motorcycle crashes. In this informative blog post, we provide details about scooter and motorcycle safety along with how a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you if you’re in this situation. 

Potential Dangers of Riding Scooters and Motorcycles

Anyone who rides a scooter or a motorcycle should be aware of the potential dangers. Most accidents on these modes of transport are caused by driver error in some way. Usually, it is the error of other motorists who fail to pay attention to scooter and motorcycle riders.

Here are some of the most common dangers for riders of these vehicles:

Rear-End Accidents

A driver may not be paying attention and crash into one.

Lane Change Accidents

Both motorcycles and scooters are prone to being hit when another vehicle changes lanes. Drivers must be careful to watch for riders of these vehicles and ensure the way is clear.

Aggressive Drivers

Scooter riders are a particular concern for impatient drivers. Scooters can’t go as fast as other vehicles, and aggressive drivers often try to overtake them and can sideswipe the scooter when doing so.

How to Stay Safe on Scooters and Motorcycles in California

Scooter safety and motorcycle safety are imperative to keep in mind if you drive one of these vehicles. Whether you drive a scooter or a motorcycle, you should also be vigilant to help avoid accidents by using these tips:

Stay Visible

Bright or reflective clothing can help you stand out on the road and help other drivers see you.

Ride Defensively

You may want to take a course to learn how to practice defensive riding. This will help you know what to do if you face difficult situations on the road.

Pay Attention to the Weather

When the weather is foul, try to avoid riding your scooter or motorcycle if possible. If you must go anywhere, take the right precautions to stay safe.

Wear a Helmet

Wearing a helmet and any other safety gear can protect you in a crash. Even if you’re just riding a short distance, make sure you wear one.

Obey All Traffic Laws

Whether on a scooter or motorcycle, you should always follow the rules of the road. Make sure you know what behavior is permitted on scooters to ensure you’re not the one breaking the law. 

What to Do If You’re in an Accident While Riding a Scooter or Motorcycle

Even the safest scooter and motorcycle riders may eventually wind up in an accident. Most of the time, it will be due to another driver’s careless actions. You’re bound to suffer painful injuries even in a low-speed collision because you’re more exposed.

In California, the fault-based insurance laws mean that the at-fault driver will be responsible for your damages. Pure comparative negligence can also cause some of the blame to be shifted to you. Insurance companies often unfairly use this tactic against people who ride scooters or motorcycles. A car accident lawyer can tell you more about the way insurers ask leading questions and try to pin fault on those riding two-wheeled vehicles.

When motorists in passenger cars or trucks do not uphold their duty of care on the road, it is those on scooters and motorcycles who suffer the most.
If you have painful injuries from your scooter or motorcycle accident, talk to an injury lawyer from Maho Prentice, LLP to learn more about the options you have for pursuing compensation.