According to Dutch law on vehicle specifications, a moped must have a left-hand mirror. Once it is on the road, however, it does not have to be equipped with one. This road safety study investigated whether mopeds in traffic should have a left-hand mirror. The study is especially relevant because `mopeds on the road carriageway inside built-up areas' measure came into effect on 15th December 1999. By way of orientation, the relevant literature was first studied. The legal requirements for mirrors were examined. Observations were also made of the percentage of mopeds and light-mopeds (In Dutch: "snorfietsen") with and without mirrors. An accident analysis was made of collisions while manoeuvring to the left in traffic. The data obtained was then analysed to see if mirrors on mopeds (and light-mopeds) are desirable and/or necessary or not. In the analysis of viewing behaviour and mirror use, a distinction was made between experienced and novice mopedists. It can be concluded that a mirror on a moped is not absolutely necessary for safe mopedist behaviour. This is not anymore necessary at locations where the `mopeds on the road carriageway inside built-up areas' measure applies.
Samenvatting