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The Blacksburg Police Department will be educating the public on the recently passed town ordinance dealing with helmets and eye protection for moped/scooter operators from now until October 1, at that time police will begin enforcing the new town law.
According to Sgt. Nathan O’Dell of the Blacksburg Police Department, the town will spend the next few weeks educating the community of the new ordinance. After October 1, violators will be subject to receiving a ticket. The new ordinance, which was passed on August 12 by Blacksburg Town Council reads as follows: The new ordinance, 1497-Safety Equipment for Moped Operators and Passengers, will result in a $50 fine if operators and passengers are observed to be in violation by Blacksburg Police officers. Operators and passengers must wear an approved DOT helmet and eye protection when riding mopeds/scooters. State law does not require moped/scooter operators to wear helmets or eye protection, but it does permit local governments to enact ordinances requiring these safety measures. The Town of Blacksburg joined other Virginia localities in an effort to address safety concerns in our communities. A moped is a vehicle that has less than a 50 cubic centimeter (cc’s) engine and will travel no faster than 35 miles per hour. These vehicles are not required to be registered through DMV, insured, have an operator’s license, or riding experience. An operator must be 16 years of age. This is the main reason the ordinance was enacted. For more information about Ordinance 1497, call Sergeant Nathan O’Dell at (540) 961-1168.
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