Scooter and Moped Riders Face New Laws in October

New laws affecting riders of motor scooters will take effect Oct. 1, making significant changes to the way they ride.

The new laws require all motor scooters and mopeds to be titled and insured, while all operators and passengers must wear a helmet and eye protection.

On Friday, a 66-year-old man was hospitalized with critical injuries after he crashed his scooter near College Parkway in Arnold, according to The Capital.

Existing laws also require all motor scooter and moped operators to possess a valid driver’s license or a moped operator’s permit, according to a release from the Maryland State Police.

At least the minimum vehicle liability insurance is required, and riders must carry proof of the insurance with them whenever they are operating the scooter or moped.

Motor scooters and mopeds will be required to be titled by the state Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Owners will be able to obtain titling information through the MVA website starting Oct. 1.

The drivers of motor scooters and mopeds are required to follow the same rules of the road as bicycles.

Troopers and local law enforcement across Maryland have received training regarding the new laws. Scooter and moped drivers who violate the new law can expect to be stopped and issued traffic citations or warnings, beginning Oct. 1.