Reader Reports Horrible Crash involving a Vespa at 17th and U Street, NW Last Night

17th and U Street, NW

UPDATE from MPD:

“MPD units responded to an accident involving a motor vehicle and a motor-driven cycle (commonly called a moped) that had an operator and a passenger. Our investigation into the incident continues, but at this time it appears that the motor vehicle was traveling west on U Street when the driver attempted to turn left onto southbound 17th Street, striking the motor-driven cycle that was traveling east on U Street. Fortunately, both riders on the motor-driven cycle sustained non-life threatening injuries.

This is a great opportunity to talk about motor-driven cycle safety and regulations. In the incident last night, both riders were wearing DOT approved helmets, which greatly reduced the injuries that they sustained. In addition, as required in DC, the motor-driven cycle was properly registered. Please remember that a motor-driven cycle being operated in Washington DC is required to have a valid registration (license plates), insurance, and the operator must have a valid license (it does NOT require a motorcycle endorsement though). We often hear from individuals who believe that since their motor-driven cycle is under 49cc, it does not need a registration, but that is incorrect. The 49cc threshold is the difference between a motor-driven cycle and a motorcycle (which requires the operator to have a motorcycle endorsement). Additional information can be found here.”

“Dear PoPville,

I “witnessed” a terrible accident tonight around 7:30 PM at the intersection of 17th and U Street NW. I did not see the accident as I was parallel parking but heard a loud bang and the next thing I knew there were two individuals who were flying and landed in the street right behind my parked vehicle. Their Vespa had collided with a Chevy Sedan. The scene was terrible and while both passengers on the vespa were hurt, one was alarmingly injured. I called 911 (as did many other bystanders) and luckily the EMTs were there almost momentarily given the location, but I can’t stop thinking about that one individual, as I truly hope she is okay.

She left on a stretcher in an ambulance. I’m just hoping someone may have additional information. Also, really wonderful to see so many individuals jump into action, call 911 and rush to help take care of the injured while we waited for the emergency vehicles.“