North Carolina Moped Insurance Law Halted

April 13, 2009

An effort to regulate mopeds in North Carolina got diverted after senators rejected an effort to require riders to carry liability insurance.

Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand last week pulled his bill to require a moped to get a license plate and riders to wear a helmet. Rand said insurance ensures scooter riders take responsibility for accidents.

Senators voted for an amendment by Sen. Jim Jacumin of Burke County to remove the insurance requirement. Jacumin said moped accidents aren't a big problem and premiums would place a burden on people who ride them because they are barred from driving a car.

Rand said premiums would range from $80 to $300 per year, but Jacumin and others said it could be much higher in some cases.