§ 12-190. Operational requirement specific to moped operation.

(a)

Moped operators must be at least 16 years of age, and possess a validly issued United States drivers license or a validly issued moped operator's license issued by the State of South Carolina (Class G, D or M), except that a person whose driver's license has been suspended for a period of six months or less under South Carolina law is not required to obtain a moped operator's license or possess a valid driver's license during the period of suspension. Any person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction of a first offense, must be fined not less than $25.00 nor more than $50.00 and, upon conviction of a second or subsequent offense, must be fined not less than $50.00 nor more than $100.00, per state law.

(b)

Every moped operator shall have his license in his immediate possession at all times when operating a moped and shall display it upon demand of any officer or agent of the Department of Public Safety or any police officer of the state.

(c)

It shall be unlawful for any moped operator or passenger under the age of 21 to operate or ride upon a moped unless he wears a protective helmet of a type approved by the Department of Public Safety. Such a helmet must be equipped with either a neck or chin strap and be reflectorized on both sides thereof.

(d)

It shall be unlawful for any moped operator or passenger under the age of 21 to operate or ride upon a moped unless he wears protective glasses, goggles or face shield of a type approved by the Department of Public Safety.

(e)

It shall be unlawful for a moped operator to exceed 25 miles per hour. A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than $200.00 or imprisoned not more than 30 days, per state law.

(f)

No person may ride upon a moped other than upon or astride a permanent and regular seat attached to the moped. No moped may be used to carry more persons at one time than the number for which it is designed and equipped.

(g)

Mopeds found operating unlawfully on roadways may be impounded, for the safety of public and the operator.

(Ord. No. 2016-1, 4-12-16)