2024 Operation Ride Right Got Results

In 2024, Operation Ride Right impounded illegally-operating mopeds and led to greater enforcement to ensure moped drivers operate in a lawful manner. A WUSA9 investigation found that DC Metropolitan Police impounded nearly 500 illegal mopeds. "We put this operation together because of the marked increased in use of mopeds and a lot of notices from the community and our own observation that often there was erratic driving and a lack of compliance with on-the-books District law,” DC police spokesman Thomas Lynch told the Washington Post. WTOP reported that DC police distributed flyers reminding drivers of D.C. laws applying to mopeds and scooters, including:

• Mopeds and scooters cannot drive in bike lanes, on sidewalks or in between lanes of traffic.

• Drivers must obey all regular traffic laws such as stopping for red lights.

• Only one person can ride on the vehicle at a time.

• All drivers must wear helmets and have a valid license, license plate, registration and insurance to operate a moped or scooter.