With gas prices what they are, it’s no wonder such a large percentage of Americans and Blacksburgians are choosing to ride a two-wheeled fuel economy machine, the moped. After all, while tooling around Town, why not hop on your shiny new ride to run to the store or your next meeting. But in doing so, don’t forget your helmet. On August 12, Town Council passed an ordinance requiring helmets and eye protection to be worn by moped operators and their passengers.
So, what does this mean for you? Really, it’s simple. A moped is a vehicle that travels with no more than three wheels in contact with the ground, and has a seat no less than 24” in height measured from the middle of the seat perpendicular to the ground. A moped’s engine also displaces less than 50 cubic centimeters (cc’s). They are commonly known to many as scooters. Before you take a ride on your new moped, be sure you have a DOT approved helmet and eye protection, whether it be sunglasses, goggles, or the like. Not complying with the new ordinance could result in a $50 fine.
State law does not require moped operators to wear helmets or eye protection, but it does permit local governments to enact ordinances requiring these safety measures. Blacksburg joins many other Virginia localities in this effort, to include Arlington County, Virginia Beach, Chesterfield County, Augusta County and others.
“Ideally, this would be addressed at the state level,” said Blacksburg Attorney, Larry Spencer. “A moped can travel to speeds as high as 35 miles per hour, they do not have to be registered or insured, and operators need no motorcycle license or riding experience. This is why an ordinance that addresses moped safety in our Town is important.” Moped operators must be at least 16 years old.
Over the next few months, the Town of Blacksburg and Blacksburg Police will work to educate the community, campus and surrounding region about moped safety. Enforcement will begin October 1, 2008.
“This is a new ordinance that will not only apply to residents of the Town of Blacksburg, but to those who might ride their moped into the Town limits from other areas,” said Community Relations Manager Heather Browning. “Our number one concern is safety, not handing out fines, so education is the most important thing we can focus on right now.”
For more information about Ordinance 1497 - Safety Equipment for Moped Operators and Passengers call Sgt. Nathan O’Dell with the Blacksburg Police Department at 540-961-1168.