Safety on moped
Learn about helmet requirements, visibility, braking techniques, and important safety measures for moped riding.
Helmet Requirements
The use of a approved helmet is mandatory for both the rider and the passenger. The helmet must have CE marking and fit well without slipping. A helmet that has been subjected to a strong impact should be replaced even if it appears intact.
| Helmet Type | Protection |
|---|---|
| Full-face | Best possible protection for head, face, and jaw |
| Open helmet (jet) | Protects head and sides, but not the face |
| Half helmet | Minimum requirement, but provides the least protection |
A full-face helmet provides the best protection and is strongly recommended for moped riding.
Visibility in Traffic
Mopeds are small and difficult for drivers to see. You can increase visibility by:
- Wearing a reflective vest or brightly colored clothing
- Ensuring that all lights are working at all times
- Choosing a position in the lane where you are visible in the mirrors of cars in front of you
- Avoiding riding in the blind spot of trucks and buses## Braking Technique
Mopeds normally have two separate brakes, one for the front wheel and one for the rear wheel. Proper braking technique is crucial:
- Use both brakes simultaneously for the shortest possible stopping distance
- Avoid locking the front wheel, especially on wet or slippery surfaces
- Adjust your speed well in advance so that you can avoid emergency braking
Stopping distance increases significantly with speed. At 45 km/h the stopping distance is considerably longer than at 30 km/h, and you also need to account for reaction time before you even start braking.
Driving in the Dark
When driving in the dark or in poor visibility, you should reduce speed and use proper lighting. Make sure reflectors and rear lights are clean and visible.
Take a free theory test to test your knowledge of safety and rules.
Further Reading- Read about traffic rules for mopeds .
- See the overview of moped driving license class AM .
- Read about helmet requirements for mopeds for CE marking and fit.
- See maintenance of mopeds for brakes, tires, and lights.
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