Howard Coker | April 16, 2025 | State Law
Motor scooters are a popular form of transportation in Florida, given the state’s temperate weather and favorable road conditions. Additionally, scooters offer a cost-effective and fuel-efficient way to get around.
However, the laws surrounding motor scooters can be confusing, especially when it comes to registration, titling, and insurance. If you own or plan to ride a motor scooter in Florida, it’s important to understand your obligations.
What Is a Motor Scooter Under Florida Law?
Florida law’s definition of motor scooters overlaps with the definitions for motorcycles and motor vehicles. Most scooters on the road have an engine displacement of 50cc or less, making them low-powered vehicles. Despite their smaller size, these scooters are not exempt from state registration laws.
Florida law requires that most motor scooters be both titled and registered. Under Section 320.02(1), every person or entity that owns or controls a motor vehicle must register that vehicle with the state, regardless of its engine size.
Do All Scooters Require Registration?
If a rider intends to operate a motor scooter on public roads, it must be registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). The only exception is if the scooter is not operated during the registration period, in which case an exemption may apply. However, if the scooter is ever driven on public roads, it needs to be properly titled and registered.
Is Insurance Required for Motor Scooters in Florida?
Interestingly, although Florida requires riders to register motor scooters, it does not require proof of insurance to complete registration. This is a major difference from registering a passenger car, which requires minimum amounts of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and property damage liability insurance.
This means a motor scooter operator can technically register and ride a scooter without insurance coverage. Unfortunately, a lack of insurance creates a serious risk in the event of an accident. If you’re injured in a motor scooter crash, recovering compensation can be extremely difficult unless another party has applicable insurance coverage.
What if You’re Injured in a Scooter Accident in Florida?
Because scooter operators aren’t required to carry insurance, victims of scooter accidents may have to pursue claims through other insurance policies, such as:
- The at-fault driver’s auto insurance (if a car or truck was involved)
- Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
- Third-party liability policies (such as umbrella insurance)
Identifying available insurance coverage after a motor scooter accident is essential. This process often requires professional legal help.
What to Do After a Motor Scooter Accident in FL?
There are certain steps you should take to protect your health and injury claim after a motor scooter accident. Following these steps can make a difference in recovering full compensation for your claim.
- Call 911 to report the accident.
- Cooperate with the police officers as they fill out their accident report.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the at-fault driver.
- Get contact information for witnesses to the accident.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene and your injuries.
- Seek immediate medical attention via an ambulance or by following up with your own insurance provider.
The final thing you should do is contact an experienced attorney to help you understand your legal rights.
Contact The Personal Injury Law Firm of Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers For a Free Consultation
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville personal injury law firm of Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers and schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County and its surrounding areas.
Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers
136 E Bay St #5438
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 356-6071
Find us with our Geo Coordinates: 30.32569719086265, -81.65515220132858
