
A moped is a small bicycle with a small gasoline engine. Interestingly, people coined this word by combining “motorcycle” and “pedal.” Since it has the characteristics of both a motorcycle and a pedal bicycle, it gets this name.
For sure, many moped riders don’t consider wearing helmets. In fact, many ask questions, “is it essential to wear a helmet on a moped?” To their dismay, every moped rider must ensure to wear it. Be it street motorcycle helmets, every rider is obliged to wear them.
Even though it’s not mandatory in different countries, one must know the consequences of not wearing it.
After wearing the helmet, many moped riders think of themselves as circus participants who are about to pop out of the canon. However, all these perceptions are worthless compared to your life.
Let’s discuss why it is essential to wear a helmet and what consequences it will bring if you show negligence.
Moped; A Brief Overview
Bear in mind that a moped is not a full-fledged motorcycle. It is a combination of a motorcycle and a bicycle. Unlike a bike, you don’t have to use the pedal to drive it. For sure, it carries an engine, but at most 50cc. Besides, a moped can achieve a maximum speed of 28mph.
Fortunately, it is a cost-effective conveyance. If you are a college student and your budget is limited, you can conveniently purchase it. This two-wheeled device helps you to ride anywhere without any trouble.
Moped vs. Scooter
Many of you need clarification on these two terms. Moped and scooter are two distinct terms and should not be confused. Let’s take a precise dig into their notable differences.
Parameters | Moped | Scooter |
Size of an engine | Less than 50cc | Greater than 50cc but less than 150cc |
Maximum speed | It can reach a maximum speed of 28mph. | Its speed may vary with the engine size. |
License Category | AM | A1 |
You must understand that both are two different terms. However, it has a common characteristic: a legal or moral obligation to wear a helmet.
Why Is It Mandatory to Wear a Helmet on the Moped?
The helmet is a shield that protects your body against any impact. It will be your luck if you escape death in a tragic road accident without wearing a helmet. Therefore, you should always opt for an ECE-approved helmet. Most of the time, people either lose their lives or become disabled for not wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle or moped.
For sure, every moped rider must follow this rule as well. Whether you consider it a law or moral obligation, you must follow it to ensure a safe ride. A moped rider is always at risk of encountering severe injury while riding.
The United States has taken a step ahead by making helmet-wearing mandatory, except for a few cities. US citizens must pay heavy fines if they ride a moped bear head.
But why is the government taking notice of this issue?
The spectrum of road accident fatality is significantly on the rise in those states, not considering riders’ safety. Unfortunately, statistics showing the number of riders with helmets is relatively low. As a result, people are facing severe injuries and even death.
Due to these notable reasons, every moped rider must wear a helmet.
Utmost safety
Your safety concerns must be your foremost priority. Whenever you encounter an accident, you are left with only two possibilities. Either you end up losing your life, or you become disabled temporarily or permanently. That’s why it’s up to you to choose between life and death. One way to do so is to wear the best motorcycle helmet.
A moped rider takes this for granted. He thinks he is traveling at a safe speed and there is no risk of injury. Although you are observing caution, what about the automobile rider approaching you at high speed? Therefore, to prevent any damage, you must wear a helmet.
Protect You From Dust and Pollution
Despite offering safety concerns; a helmet also delivers other significant advantages. A moped rider must ensure to wear a helmet for multiple reasons. Firstly, the helmet will protect the rider’s face from dust and pollution. Dust particles can irritate your eyes and cause an eye infection.
Ensure the Safety of Other Riders
If you wear the best full-face helmets. you will ensure your safety and save other riders’ lives. A helmet allows you to acquire a streamlined flow. Moreover, you will have a risk-free ride if you follow the right track. The helmet shield will reflect light and dust particles. Otherwise, light and dust will interfere with your vision and cause an accident.
What Are Moped Helmet Laws in Different Countries?
Undoubtedly, every country has its laws and regulations. Following this, they have created a list of statutes; thankfully, moped laws are one of them. Let’s check out these laws.
United States
In the United States, you need a moped license. However, it is not an obligation in every state as you can use a driving license in its place. In some US states, riders under 19 must wear a helmet. While in some states, only passengers should wear a helmet. However, there are three states which don’t levy moped laws.
The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom obliged everyone to wear a helmet except Sikhs, who wear turbans. Besides, this law still holds validation in the case of moped riders.
Australia
The moped law is pretty strict for Australian citizens. The moped helmet must comply with Australia’s Listed Standards. Hence, every citizen must follow these standards.
Final Thoughts
Every moped rider must comply with the rules and regulations of the country or state they reside in. By following them, they must ensure to wear a helmet. At least don’t put yourself and others’ lives at risk. Therefore, to escape death or severe injury, wear a helmet, as it’s the only way to ensure a safe and pleasant journey.