In Belgium, mopeds are categorized into two classes: the speed limit is 25 kph for Class A and 40 kph for Class B vehicles. Speed measurements on a total of 227 mopeds were conducted in 12 Flemish schools. The findings revealed that maximum allowable speed was exceeded in 91% of the mopeds. To assess the effects of this accident prone behaviour, all traffic injuries that were treated at the Leuven University Hospital (Gasthuisberg) were screened. Among a total of 1691 traffic victims, 273 were moped drivers (16%): 187 incurred small injuries, 65 were seriously wounded, and 5 died as a result of the traffic accident. In addition to excessive speeds, lack of experience is also considered a decisive factor in traffic accidents. considered a decisive factor in traffic accidents. It is predominantly the young group of moped drivers between 16 and 20 years who become involved in accidents. The present findings argue for improving the traffic eduction of young road users and for a more rigorous control of imposed speed limits. They also argue against the moped manufacturers' plea to decrease the age limit for moped driving in Belgium to 14 years.(A)
Samenvatting