SEO: University of Maryland scooter laws Students react to scooter laws A closer look at the positives and negatives

of new laws By: Patrick Mullins

University student Kayla Clarke revved her scooter with ferocity to ignite the engine on a shiny brisk morning. Clarke puts on her glistening helmet and slides the visor over her eyes as she swings her leg over the scooter to hop on. She speeds off toward her morning class. I dont think we need any more requirements, Clarke, a junior elementary education major, said. Clarke relies on a scooter for on-campus transportation. The state government approved a law requiring scooter drivers to purchase insurance, register with the state and wear a helmet with eye protection. University students emphasize the positives and acknowledge the negatives of these recently implemented scooter laws.
Kayla Clarke voices her opinion on the negatives of the new scooter laws. Photo by Patrick Mullins.

Safety first and rather be safe than sorry, but I dont know thats really expensive for me. Steven Sullivan

Scooters are just for on-campus its nothing where I think you need insurance or helmets with a visor because its very expensive for college students, Kevin Ambrosioh said. Ambrosioh, a junior business major, discussed the negatives that would come with the new laws; however, other students viewed the laws positively. (more)

Patrick Mullins, Students React, Page 2 Students react Registration and insurance in case of an accident with a pedestrian will have a positive effect for student safety on campus, Jason Robinson said. Robinson, a sophomore communication major, emphasized safety being the critical aspect over any other concerns. He also mentioned the need for insurance promotes safer scooter driving on campus. The university before these new laws only required scooter drivers to register with the school and didnt enforce any safety regulations. All interviewed students approved of the new safety features, but they differed on whether to focus on the positives or negatives. Most students sided with one side or the other on this issue. However, Maisie McCune, a freshman letters and sciences major, represents students that see both sides of the recent scooter laws.
Maisie McCune expresses her views on the new scooter laws. Photo by Patrick Mullins.

Students should wear a helmet and eye protections which are very crucial during a scooter ride and increase safety, McCune said. Registered and insured drivers would be beneficial to cover accident costs and damages, but owners will see this as being forced into buying something that they dont necessarily want or need. ###