Moped Accident Leads to Death of Teenager in North Carolina | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

A 17-year-old lost his life after he was hit by a car while riding his Moped down U.S. 421 in Wilkes County, North Carolina (NC). The at-fault driver, who is 19 years old, did not suffer any injuries but a passenger in the car did get hurt, according to the Journal Patriot.

Police have charged the at-fault driver with a misdemeanor death by motor vehicle since he was speeding, according to WXII12.com.

My heartfelt condolences go out to the family of the victim, especially the parents. Losing a child is a virtually indescribable pain. It must be especially difficult since the loss is so sudden.

This is the second Moped accident death in less than a week in NC. Between 2005 and 2007, there were 21 moped wreck-related deaths in NC, according to journalnow.com.

It goes without saying that safe operation of a moped is crucial but there’s very little you can do when a speeding car hits you. The unfortunate reality is that when a car slams into someone on a moped, scooter, motorcycle or bike, the operator of these types of devices usually takes the brunt force from the collision. But that does not excuse the at-fault driver’s reckless behavior.

PA