Lafayette, LA, has a population of around 121,000 residents, making it the fourth-largest city in the state of Louisiana. The city offers residents and visitors a range of sights and activities. Many people decide to enjoy the city with the freedom provided by a motor scooter.

Like any other city, Lafayette experiences varying degrees of traffic on its roadways. Each year, traffic accidents occur in the city. Unfortunately, many of these accidents result in significant property damage and personal injuries.

When a motor scooter is involved in a collision, the potential for physical damage is high. Before you choose to use this mode of transportation, it is important to understand how safe motor scooters are for use in Lafayette, LA.

Safety Features on Motor Scooters

With the rise of motor scooter rental companies and apps, these vehicles are more popular than ever. However, motor scooters are not equipped with the same safety features as standard passenger vehicles. 

Cars and trucks have seat belts, airbags, and a sturdy frame that surrounds drivers and passengers. Motor scooters, on the other hand, leave riders vulnerable to the surrounding environment. 

But these small vehicles do provide certain accommodations to keep riders safe. 

Some of the most common safety features of motor scooters include:

  • Taillights and headlights
  • Turn signals
  • Side mirrors
  • Shock-absorbing suspension systems
  • Anti-lock brakes
  • Specially designed tires and wheels
  • Disc brakes

Most motor scooters are also compatible with other types of safety gear. Examples include helmets, pads, and other equipment. The specific safety features of motor scooters can vary, depending on the make and model. 

When using a scooter, it is critical to wear protective gear. Riders should also wear appropriate footwear. 

Common Factors in Accidents Involving Motor Scooters

Accidents involving motor scooters occur across the state of Louisiana each year. These mishaps often result in significant negative consequences for the scooter rider.

While every scooter collision is unique, there are certain factors that are most likely to contribute to a scooter crash. Factors that make scooter accidents more probable include:

Inexperienced Riders

If a person does not have experience or training operating a motor scooter, they are at higher risk for accidents. New riders are often unfamiliar with the handling or control of the scooter they have chosen. This can result in serious errors in judgment or dangerous maneuvers.

Speeding

Riding a scooter too fast makes it more difficult to control. These vehicles are prone to instability at higher speeds

Also, traveling too fast reduces the rider’s reaction time. If a vehicle or other obstacle blocks the scooter’s path, an accident may result.

Distraction

Like any other vehicle, scooters require the operator’s full attention. When riders are distracted, they may not see possible dangers in time to avert disaster.

Typical examples of distractions include:

  • Using cell phones
  • Adjusting music volume or headphone positions
  • Eating or drinking

Distracted driving reduces the individual’s capacity to respond to their environment.

Other Drivers

Some motor scooter accidents in Lafayette are the result of other motorists’ negligence. Even when the scooter rider is as careful as possible, other drivers may not be. 

Collisions between standard vehicles and motor scooters are often devastating. If you have been injured on a scooter as the result of another person’s careless behavior, you may be owed financial recovery.

Contact a Lafayette Personal Injury Lawyer If You Were Injured in a Motor Scooter Accident

By taking advantage of the safety features of your motor scooter and keeping safe driving practices in mind, you can effectively decrease your risk of getting into a motor scooter accident in Lafayette, Louisiana.

If you or a loved one was harmed in a motor scooter accident, make sure to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. A legal professional can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses connected to your accident.

If you’ve been injured in a scooter accident, please call Kenny Habetz Injury Law for a free case evaluation with a Louisiana car accident lawyer or contact us online. We have offices in Lafayette and Crowley, LA.

Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Lafayette
110 E Kaliste Saloom Rd Ste 101 Lafayette, LA 70508
(337) 399-9000

Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Crowley
604 S Parkerson Ave. Crowley, LA 70526
(337) 329-8883