Sharing the Road: Motorcycles, Mopeds, Scooters and Bicycles

Motorcycles, mopeds, scooters and bicycles may account for a relatively small percentage of vehicles on the road, but they are consistently over-represented in fatal traffic accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, per vehicle miles traveled, those operating motorcycles are 29 times more likely to die in a crash than those riding in passenger cars.

Weather conditions, user error or impairment and being unable to predict what another driver will do can all contribute to traffic accidents and fatalities. When it comes to sharing the road, it is important to take special precautions to keep everyone safe.

How to Share the Road

Motorcycles

♦ Motorcycles have the right to use the entire traffic lane

♦ Two motorcycles may share a lane

♦ When coming up behind a motorcycle, slow down sooner than you would for a larger vehicle.

♦ Because they are smaller, motorcycles may appear to be farther away than they are and it can be difficult to judge how fast they are traveling.

♦ Bad weather and slippery or uneven surfaces pose a big danger to motorcycles. When sharing the road, be mindful of conditions and give plenty of distance.

Mopeds and Scooters

♦ Like motorcycles, mopeds and scooters are allowed to use the entire lane.

♦ Mopeds are required to use the extreme right-hand lane of a multi-lane road unless they are making a left turn or if they are otherwise directed by traffic signs or police officers.

♦ Mopeds typically have a max speed of 30-55 miles per hour. In some cases, this may be slower than the flow of traffic. When coming up on a moped, maintain extra distance.

Bicycles

♦ Cyclists traveling in bike lanes have the right-of-way.

♦ At intersections, motorists must yield the right-of-way to cyclists just as they would for other vehicles and pedestrians.

♦ While cyclists traveling on roadways are required to obey traffic signs, inexperienced riders, particularly children, may not follow the rules of the road. Keep a careful eye out of cyclists and allow plenty of space to accommodate unexpected actions.​

Things to Remember When Operating a Motorcycle, Moped, Scooter or Bicycle

♦ Motorcycles, mopeds and bicycles are required to ride on the right side of the road.

♦ If you will be riding at night or during bad weather, wear brightly colored clothing and reflective gear.​

♦ In Nevada, those operating motorcycles and mopeds are required to wear helmets. Currently, there are no state laws requiring cyclists to wear helmets. Even so, it is important to note that wearing one can reduce your risk of brain injury by almost 90%.

Getting the Right Auto Insurance Coverage with Nevada Insurance Enrollment

In most cases, bicycles are covered under your homeowners‘ or renters’ insurance policy. However, mopeds and motorcycles are generally not covered, making it necessary to purchase a separate policy. At Nevada Insurance Enrollment, licensed auto insurance agents help you evaluate your driving habits and budget to find the right level of coverage.