BY JOHN ARUNDEL
Managing Editor
 
In light of the tragic death of a 15-year-old Bishop Ireton student killed in a recent moped accident in Alexandria, the Fairfax County Police has issued a warning to moped and scooter drivers.

An increasing number of drivers are turning to mopeds and motorized scooters as alternatives to cars and trucks, said Traffic Safety Specialist Master Police Officer Bob Barton.
 
The Fairfax County Police Department has released a new educational brochure and wants owners to know the rules of the road. "We are seeing a surge in people, some more experienced than others, commuting by moped, scooters and motorcycles, which can create safety concerns when mixing with other vehicles," Barton said.

There is a new law, effective July 1, which those contemplating a new mode of commuting need to be aware of. If a moped is driven over 35 mph, it is now considered a motorcycle, which means that the operator needs to have additional driver's certifications and a motorcycle license.
 
Additionally, the moped needs license plates, proper registration and insurance. If a moped is driven under 35 mph, the driver does not need a license (but must carry identification) and the vehicle does not need license plates or insurance.

Additional safety tips and rules for moped and scooter operators include:

• Drivers should wear bright or reflective clothing.

• Drivers must wear a helmet.

• Drivers must be at least 16 years old to operate a moped.

• Drivers cannot use earphones (I-pods, radios, MP3)

• Mopeds and bicycles must stay to the right side of the roadway.

• Mopeds and motorized scooters may not be operated on sidewalks.
  

To learn more about moped and scooter safety, checkout: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/brochure/guide-scooter-moped-
cycle-operation.pdf
<http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/brochure/guide-
scooter-moped-cycle-operation.pdf> 
or call the Fairfax County Police Traffic Division at 703/280-0563.

http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/brochure/guide-
scooter-moped-cycle-operation.pdf