North Carolina Lawmakers Approve Insurance Requirement for Mopeds

Moped owners may have a new item on their to-do lists in 2016 after getting their small-engine bikes registered with the state starting in July.

The General Assembly gave its final approval in June to legislation requiring mopeds have liability insurance starting in July 2016. The House approved the mandate in April. The bill was awaiting Gov. Pat McCrory’s final review as of press time.

The registration requirement was approved last year and was slated to start July 1.

Supporters of additional moped owner requirements say regulators need to know more about the vehicles and ensure owners are held financially responsible for accidents. Insurance could range from $90 to almost $400 annually, depending on driving history.

The final Senate vote was 39-8. Some opponents were worried about the high costs upon moped riders.