BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) -- An accident late Monday night on Highway 74 claimed the life of 38-year-old Mark Mooring of Wilmington. Mooring was riding a moped that collided with a semi.
Moped dealer Michael Gary said, “He came out of there and lost it, may have had a flat tire or something and it put him over there, I don't think he intentionally ran across that traffic.”
The Highway Patrol believes Mooring, who was not licensed, merged into the left lane and into the right rear section of a semi-trailer. Typical moped accidents do not involve the bikes hitting other vehicles.
New legislation aimed at registering the small motor bikes and their riders is moving forward in Raleigh. Local dealers like the idea but don't think it will prevent accidents.
Larry O’Donnell, who owns a scooter shop said, “I don't think it's really going to affect the safety, it's up to the operator of the scooter to be aware of his surroundings and know his vehicle. Most of the time it's human error."
O’Donnell does think the new legislation will help reduce theft. He says, “They’re really easy to steal, you just pick one up, go throw it in the truck if you want, most of the time they are never recovered.”
Mopeds and scooters are big sellers right now because of high gas prices but, it's rider beware, there are hazards and you cannot operate one while drinking.
The Highway Patrol believes the driver of the semi may be unaware that he was in a collision. If you have any information about this accident contact the North Carolina Highway Patrol.