Police urge caution on mopeds this winter

As the weather begins to get colder, days get shorter and streets become slippery with snow and ice, University of Wisconsin–Madison officials are encouraging moped riders to slow down for safety.

Winter weather brings a spike in moped and scooter crashes on and around UW–Madison — due in part to poor winter driving practices, says Kristin Radtke, Central Campus officer for the University of Wisconsin Police Department (UWPD). Mopeds are involved in 30-40 injury-producing crashes per year in the campus area.

"Driving a moped in the winter is much more difficult than in 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 important part of avoiding a serious crash."

Because UW–Madison has the highest concentration of mopeds in the entire country, practicing safe driving techniques can help prevent crashes from occurring.

Radtke encourages drivers to:

• Leave additional braking distance in case of skidding.
• Drive slower and more carefully on wet and icy pavement.
• Use eyewear, such as goggles, glasses or a motorcycle helmet with a visor.
• Equip your moped with a headlight, and keep it on at all times.
• 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.
• Avoid using cell phones or other distracting devices.
• Park only in designated moped parking.
• Drivers are also encouraged to have insurance in case a crash does occur.

For more information on moped or scooter safety, contact Radtke at (608) 265-6753.