Sightseeing on vacation while zipping around on a moped is a lot of fun, but tourists need to think twice before renting one. They might unknowingly be driving a scooter, in violation of local law and uninsured.
Mopeds and scooters are not the same thing, contrary to what most people think. In fact, the popular Vespa motor vehicles commonly referred to as mopeds are actually scooters. This matters because the difference between them could spark a series of ramifications: Local laws might require a special license to drive a moped or scooter. Operating a vehicle on the road without a license is illegal, and illegal activities are excluded from insurance coverage.
Tourists need to be sure they are legally allowed to rent and drive a moped or scooter, otherwise they could be facing serious consequences. In addition to breaking the law, a driver might crash, damage or injure someone and find themselves liable for the associated costs out of pocket.
The cost to repair or replace a scooter might not scare some renters, but medical costs for hitting someone with a scooter should. Operating any road vehicle without insurance is an ill-advised financial risk, no matter how wealthy someone is.
The good news is that situation is entirely avoidable with a little knowledge.
First, the difference between a moped and a scooter. Mopeds are usually two-wheeled vehicles with a small 50 cubic centimeter (cc) engine or less. They are commonly bicycles with functioning pedals but also a motor that helps them reach up to 30 miles per hour. Anything faster is considered a scooter.
Scooters are more powerful versions of mopeds and drivers can typically place both feet in front of them. They're still far less powerful than a motorcycle, though. A powerful scooter might have up to 250cc but a motorcycle can easily have more than 2,000cc.
Knowing the differences between them, it's easy to see why they have different license requirements and rules.
Most places require a driver's license of some kind to operate a scooter or moped, but others might require a special license for a scooter. In some cases, no license might be required for a moped.
Whatever the requirements are, travelers need to make sure they meet them to avoid operating a vehicle illegally and falling under an insurance exclusion. To do this, just play it safe: Don't take a chance and operate a moped or scooter you aren't allowed to, and make sure your insurance policy covers whatever you rent.
Most motorcycle insurance policies cover mopeds and scooters. Anyone with the proper license to operate a moped or scooter that doesn't have motorcycle insurance should be able to purchase a temporary policy from the rental company.