OCEAN CITY, Md. - If you own a moped or scooter in Maryland, a new law is set to take effect. But the changes won't just effect riders, business owners will notice a difference, too.
"As far as the new law: is it going to make it more safe? I don't know," said Kozmas Gikurias, co-owner of Fun Cycles.
Riders of mopeds and motor scooters, the law is changing. In Maryland, owners must now register and insure their vehicles. Some shops, like Fun Cycles in Ocean City, are doing their best to keep their customers informed with the little information they say they have.
"It is very confusing, because every day people, people come here and ask different questions like 'what's going on [with the new law]?'"
Once this new law takes in effect, all operators of mopeds and scooters, that includes renters and buyers must wear DOT approved helmets. According to the Department of Transportation, helmets must meet the minimum federal safety standard by having an inch of foam padding. Shops cannot sell helmets unless they fit this criteria. Still, owners don't know if these changes will help or hurt business.
"They're going to make us pay extra to register the rentals and registering the rentals will cost more than registering personal scooters," said Gikurias.
But law makers say: with extra costs, comes extra safety.
All operators will be required to ride as close to the right side of the roadway and to wear eye protection. Officials also say those who violate the new law can expect to be stopped and issued citations or warnings starting tomorrow.
To see all of the new changes and where to register your motor scooters and mopeds, log on to the MVA website.
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