An alternative form of transportation has both pros and cons for residents in Lenoir County.
Motorized scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in Kinston due to the low cost of fueling them. In addition, owners of scooters, whose maximum speed does not exceed 30 mph, do not need a driver’s license or insurance to operate them. The only requirements are that operators are 16 years old, wear helmets and the engines do not exceed 50 cubic centimeters
Amy Meadows, retail manager at Highland TV and Appliance, said they sell an average of one or two scooters every day. The average retail price is around $1,600.
Willie Waters, riding his in Kinston on Wednesday, said he got bought his three-wheeled scooter because of the rising price of gas.
The size of gas tank and mpg varies by make and model. However, some with a 1.6 gallon tanks can average up to 80 mph.
Waters said while there are benefits, there are some drawbacks to riding a scooter. He said he often gets tailgated by other motorists as he drives down Vernon Avenue.
“It’s nice to have but it’s dangerous,” Waters said.
Some motorists expressed concern about scooters on the road.
Cathy Rouse said scooters are slow and hard to see at night.
“I’m afraid I’m going to hit one of them,” Rouse said.
Jason Peoples, owner of Highland TV and Appliance, said each customer is given a sheet of paper outlining N.C. moped laws and a reflective vest for wearing at night.
Peoples said there are mixed reactions to the standards.
“Some people are consciousness and others are more resistant to rules.” Peoples said.
Sgt. C.J. Owens of the Highway Patrol said scooter operators have to wear a DOT-approved helmet and have functioning headlights in the front and rear of the scooter.
However, those who think they can get away with driving drunk if they are on a scooter should think again.
“You can’t drive impaired,” Owens said. “DWI laws are the same for scooters as they are for motorists.”
On the highway, scooters should drive as far to the right as possible, Owens said.
Waters admitted it can be nerve-racking riding on the highway.
“It’s jumpy, but you can’t panic,” Waters said. “You have to keep focusing on the road and always stay in the right hand lane.”
Waters said he will continue to ride his scooter, but keep an eye on the road.
“I always use extreme precautions,” Waters said.
Noah Clark can be reached at 252-559-1073 or Noah.Clark@Kinston.com. Follow him on Twitter @ nclark763.