Hawaii Moped Accident Attorneys

Helping Hawaii’s Moped Accident Victims Recover

Although mopeds can be an efficient and affordable way to get around Honolulu, they can also be incredibly dangerous. Mopeds are small and light, making them more susceptible to damage in an accident. Riders are also exposed to the open road, which can lead to severe injuries.

At Davis Levin Livingston, we have seen the devastation that moped accidents can cause. That’s why our attorneys are dedicated to helping those who have been injured in these accidents pursue the justice they deserve. We can help you file a claim against the moped rider, the moped manufacturer, or even the government. today to learn more about your legal options.

Call (808) 740-0633 or contact us online today to request a free consultation.

Common Causes of Moped Accidents

Like any other type of motor vehicle accident, moped accidents can have a variety of causes. While some accidents are the result of a simple mistake, others are caused by negligence.

The most common causes of moped accidents include:

• Car accidents: Mopeds are small and difficult to see, which can make it difficult for other drivers to avoid hitting them. This is especially true in heavy traffic or at night.
• Poor road conditions: Mopeds are more susceptible to damage caused by poor road conditions, such as potholes or loose gravel. If a moped rider is thrown from their vehicle, they could suffer severe injuries, such as a traumatic brain injury.
• Manufacturer defects: If a moped is built with a defect, it could suddenly stop working or crash. If this happens, the manufacturer could be held liable for the injuries that result.
• Drunk driving: Drunk driving is a leading cause of all motor vehicle accidents in the United States. When a driver is under the influence of alcohol, they are more likely to cause an accident. This includes accidents involving mopeds.

Common Injuries in Moped Accidents

Even if a moped accident is relatively minor, the rider can still suffer severe injuries. This is because mopeds do not have the same safety features as other types of vehicles, such as seat belts or airbags. Riders are also exposed to the open road, which can cause them to be thrown from their vehicle.

The most common injuries in moped accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries: When a moped rider is thrown from their vehicle, they can hit their head on the pavement or another object. This can cause a traumatic brain injury, which can be life-threatening.
• Spinal cord injuries: A moped rider can suffer a spinal cord injury if they are thrown from their vehicle and land on their back. This can cause permanent paralysis.
• Bone fractures: A moped rider can suffer a broken bone if they are thrown from their vehicle and land on it.
• Soft tissue injuries: A moped rider can suffer a soft tissue injury if they are thrown from their vehicle and land on the pavement. This can cause severe road rash, which can lead to an infection.
• Neck injuries: A moped rider can also suffer a neck injury if they are thrown from their vehicle and land on it. This can cause whiplash or a herniated disc.

Staying Safe on a Moped

Clearly, a person riding a moped is more vulnerable than others on the road, so taking the proper precautions are important in order to reduce the risk of injury. Be keen to recommendations and required safety procedures for moped drivers.

Obey Traffic Laws

Make sure to stop at all stop signs and red lights– even when there is a provision stating that you are not required to stop if your vehicle is under a certain weight. Many states require that moped and scooter riders stay at least three feet from the center line, even when making a left turn. Whether or not this is true where you are riding, it is a good practice to get into. You should also be sure to use all necessary signals in an attempt to keep other drivers and pedestrians aware of your intentions on the road.

Be Extra Watchful

We’ve all seen those bumper stickers that say, “Start Seeing Motorcycles.” This goes double for mopeds and scooters. Distracted driving and the small size of mopeds can inhibit other driver’s ability to see you. Never assume a driver sees you on a moped or that you will get the right of way, even if you should.

Drive Defensively

No matter what you’re driving, you should drive defensively. When you are driving a moped, which leaves you less protected and visible, this skill is especially important. If your choice is between being right or being alive, alive is always the better option.

Wear Protective Clothing

Whether or not they are required by law, you should wear glasses and a jacket. Wearing a jacket, or just longer sleeves can protect you from flying gravel or debris. Full-length pants are also advisable over shorts in order to prevent being struck or burned.

When a Moped Accident Happens

If you are in a moped accident, hopefully you will be able to escape serious injury. After an accident, it is important to communicate with the officer on the scene and let them know as many details as possible so that your side of the story is on record. As soon as you are able, it is also important to speak with a personal injury attorney.

Even if your insurance company, or the insurance company of the other driver involved seems to be cooperative in offering you a settlement, an attorney should verify that they are offering everything you need. At times, an initial offer can sound as if it is plenty, but other costs creep up, such as lost wages or long term care, and the moped accident winds up setting you back not only physically, but financially as well.

If you’ve been in a moped accident and haven’t talked to a personal injury attorney, it’s a good idea to talk to one and see what can be done. If you’ve lost a loved one, or have a family member who is injured too severely to pursue their own case, it is also a good idea to do what you can to help them move forward on a case. That way the injured person will have the best possible chance at getting the compensation they deserve.

Contact our moped accident attorneys in Hawaii today at (808) 740-0633 to schedule a consultation.