| Mopeds, also sometimes referred to as scooters, are | | | | aware that mopeds had special exemptions from |
| small two-wheeled vehicles that are popular in urban | | | | license requirements, and many of the patients were |
| areas. They typically have a less powerful engine than | | | | using mopeds because they had already had their |
| a motorcycle but are operated similarly. These unique | | | | driver's licenses revoked. The moped provided a form |
| vehicles are typically seen in crowded cities where | | | | of transportation for offenders with a suspended |
| parking is scarce and are a preferred mode of | | | | license so that they could still get around town. |
| transportation for some college students. Because | | | | Unfortunately, many of them repeated the drunk |
| they are small and have a low gas mileage, they are | | | | driving offense on a moped and caused an accident |
| also favored by urban commuters. | | | | resulting in injuries. |
| License Exemptions | | | | Don't Risk a DUI |
| Another advantage to the moped is that it is exempt | | | | While moped drivers may be exempt from holding a |
| from some transportation laws in some states. In | | | | valid driver's license, they are still subject to other |
| many states, you don't need to have a motorcycle | | | | traffic laws, including drunk driving laws. You could still |
| license to operate a moped, and in some states you | | | | be pulled over and arrested for driving under the |
| don't need any license for operation. This rule typically | | | | influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). It may |
| applies only to mopeds and scooters with an engine | | | | seem like a good idea to opt to drive a moped instead |
| under 50 cubic centimeters (cc). While this exemption | | | | of a car if you are intoxicated, but if you do so you |
| may seem advantageous, a recent study shows that | | | | may find yourself sitting in jail on drunk driving charges. |
| it also makes mopeds the vehicle of choice for drunk | | | | Operating any vehicle under the influence of alcohol is |
| individuals, DUI offenders with a suspended license, and | | | | never safe. Always opt to walk, take a bus, or call a |
| repeat offenders. | | | | friend or taxi if you are unfit to drive. |
| Mopeds and DUI Offenders | | | | For More Information |
| A study submitted to the American College of | | | | To learn more about moped laws and drunk driving |
| Surgeons in 2008 shows that moped drivers were | | | | offenses, please visit the website of experienced |
| injured in alcohol related accidents one and a half times | | | | Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly |
| as often as automobile and motorcycle drivers. The | | | | today. |
| researchers found that almost all of the patients were | | | | |