Safety experts: Exercise caution on mopeds this winter

Although Madison experienced some uncharacteristically warm weather this season, roads have become slippery and snow-covered, and temperatures have dipped during the past few weeks.

Winter weather brings an increase in potential moped accidents on and around the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus — due in part to poor winter driving practices, says Jennifer Duncan, student safety coordinator in the Offices of the Dean of Students. Mopeds are involved in 30-40 injury-producing accidents per year in the campus area.

“Driving a moped in the winter is a little different than other parts of the year,” she says. “As it gets colder, all scooter riders have to be just a little more careful. Slowing down is one key to staying safe.”

The northeast section of campus (north of University Avenue and east of Charter) and the south central section of campus (including Camp Randall) are areas where moped use is the highest during the semester and, as such, are home to more accidents.

Because UW–Madison has one of the highest concentrations of mopeds in the entire country, with 1,850 registered mopeds, practicing safe driving techniques can help prevent accidents from occurring.

• Moped drivers are encouraged to:
• Slow down farther from stop signs and intersections in case of skidding.
• Drive slower and more carefully on wet and icy pavement.
• Wear a helmet.
• Test your brakes to judge stopping distances.
• Dress appropriately for the weather. Make sure that clothing such as hats and scarves are not impairing your vision.
• Keep plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.
• Always yield to pedestrians.
• Remember that it is illegal for mopeds to operate on sidewalks and in bike lanes.
• Never drive with additional riders.
• Park only in designated moped parking.
• Be aware that bridges become especially icy.
• Drivers are also encouraged to have insurance in case an accident does occur.

For more information on moped or scooter safety, contact Duncan at (608) 263-5700 or UWPD at (608) 262-4527, or visit this Web site.