Two teenagers had to be airlifted to Riley Children’s Hospital following a hit-and-run accident on Center Road. According to the Kokomo Tribune, the two were riding a mo-ped when they were hit by a passing SUV — that left the scene after the collision.
It happened when the SUV was heading west on Center Road and was turning south onto Highland Springs Drive. The vehicle hit the teens head-on, and neither was wearing helmets when the accident happened. One of the teens suffered serious internal and head injuries while the other suffered from a fractured leg. If you have any information regarding this accident or the hit-and-run driver, you’re asked to contact the Kokomo Police Department by calling 765-459-5101.
Our Highland personal injury lawyers understand that there are many travelers who choose mopeds to get around, and they are also facing some serious risks for accidents. These two-wheel vehicles, however, aren’t the safest means of travel. In fact, your chance of getting killed while operating a scooter is close to 40 times higher than driving a car, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
With more and more people looking to ditch their gas-guzzlers for something sportier, the variety of scooters and mopeds on the market is steadily growing to include not only the traditional Italian-style models, but a range of motorized bikes.
If you’ve decided, or are currently contemplating, to get a moped, please review the following safety tips to help to ensure a safe commute:
-Always wear a helmet. This is going to be your best defense against injury or death in the event of an accident.
-Make sure you’re visible out there. Throw on some bright-colored clothing or some reflective materials to help to ensure that other motorists see you. All too often, moped riders are overlooked on our roadways because of their small size and even smaller presence.
-Follow the rules. Make sure that you’re always using your turn signal and that you’re checking your rear-view mirror often. You’ve got to always be aware of your surroundings and make sure that your traffic maneuvers are clearly presented to other drivers.
-Wear slip-resistant shoes and avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops or shoes with laces. Keeping control of your moped is critical in safe navigating.
-Practice extra caution while approaching and crossing through intersections. Be aware of the traffic in all directions.
-Regardless of whether you rode your moped yesterday or two weeks ago, always take a couple minutes to inspect it before you start out.
-Always wear the proper protective gear for the rest of your body. From eye protection to protective pants and jacket, protecting your skin and eyes when you’re running a few errands may not seem like a big deal. But in the event of an accident, you’ll be glad you took the extra step to safeguard yourself.
You can have all kinds of fun cruising around on a scooter or moped, but to enjoy it to its fullest, obey all traffic rules, keep an eye on other motorists, and prepare for small breakdowns, weather and other considerations. Happy motoring!
Indiana Car Accident Attorney Burton A. Padove handles cases of personal injury throughout northern Indiana, including Gary, Hammond and Calumet City.
More Blog Entries:
Educating Children About Safe Walks to School, Indiana Injury and Family Lawyer Blog, August 30, 2013
Indiana Traffic Safety: Summer Road Trip Accident Risks, Indiana Injury and Family Lawyer Blog, August 25, 2013