On July 1, a couple of new and notable laws came into effect. First of all, mopeds are now required to carry liability insurance. Roughly 28,000 North Carolinians rely on mopeds to get to and from work and school. You still do not need a motorcycle endorsement on your license to drive a moped with an engine under 50 cc's. Yours truly enjoyed a 125 cc Genuine Buddy for several years, and I can personally attest that the annual insurance premium is well worth coverage for damage and theft. If you currently have a moped under 50 cc's (usually 49 cc's), be sure to contact the NC DMV to provide proof of coverage. You'll receive an updated registration card in the mail.
Also, a new late fee has gone into effect for people who forget to update their registration on time. Smart phone and online calendars are a reliable way to set a reminder so that you don't miss the renewal period. You can renew your plate up to 90 days before it expires online here.
We'd be remiss not to mention that between a 3-day weekend and low gas prices, this 4th of July is believed to be the busiest weekend of travel in history, with an anticipated 43 million motorists anticipated on our nation's highways. Along with that comes traffic congestion and a greater law enforcement presence to keep our roadways safe. The North Carolina Highway Patrol will be conducting "Operation Firecracker," aimed at keeping impaired drivers off the road with increased patrols and checkpoints. Last year, there were 418 alcohol-related deaths, and 135 this year. If that doesn't deter you, keep in mind that even a first-time a DWI is thousands of dollars cheaper than a cab, Uber, or Lyft!
We beg of you to be safe. If you or someone you love is going to enjoy the holiday with adult beverages, please plan ahead. Physicians will tell you that there is no meaningful difference between a .05 or .08 blood alcohol level, meaning that even if you've only had one Asheville IPA, you may not be able to operate a vehicle safely. After 1 drink, your judgment is not as clear as it is before you drink, so please plan ahead before you take your first sip. Make arrangements for a sober driver, stay the night, or consider the cost of a cab or ride share service being worth both a fun weekend and keeping yourself and others safe. It could be your family on the road. If you find yourself in a pickle this weekend, be sure to call our DWI attorneys. You can also get in touch with our Asheville criminal defense lawyers with the contact form below.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
Also, a new late fee has gone into effect for people who forget to update their registration on time. Smart phone and online calendars are a reliable way to set a reminder so that you don't miss the renewal period. You can renew your plate up to 90 days before it expires online here.
We'd be remiss not to mention that between a 3-day weekend and low gas prices, this 4th of July is believed to be the busiest weekend of travel in history, with an anticipated 43 million motorists anticipated on our nation's highways. Along with that comes traffic congestion and a greater law enforcement presence to keep our roadways safe. The North Carolina Highway Patrol will be conducting "Operation Firecracker," aimed at keeping impaired drivers off the road with increased patrols and checkpoints. Last year, there were 418 alcohol-related deaths, and 135 this year. If that doesn't deter you, keep in mind that even a first-time a DWI is thousands of dollars cheaper than a cab, Uber, or Lyft!
We beg of you to be safe. If you or someone you love is going to enjoy the holiday with adult beverages, please plan ahead. Physicians will tell you that there is no meaningful difference between a .05 or .08 blood alcohol level, meaning that even if you've only had one Asheville IPA, you may not be able to operate a vehicle safely. After 1 drink, your judgment is not as clear as it is before you drink, so please plan ahead before you take your first sip. Make arrangements for a sober driver, stay the night, or consider the cost of a cab or ride share service being worth both a fun weekend and keeping yourself and others safe. It could be your family on the road. If you find yourself in a pickle this weekend, be sure to call our DWI attorneys. You can also get in touch with our Asheville criminal defense lawyers with the contact form below.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
