WASHINGTON — It's been a little over a week since DC Police launched "Operation Ride Right," a traffic enforcement campaign cracking down on illegal driving of mopeds and scooters across the District. In that time, DC Police said they have arrested 61 scooter drivers for not having a permit, issued 172 infractions and impounded 167 scooters since June 5.
Daniel Rivero, from Venezuela, said he’s been delivering food with his scooter for a few months. He said he’s aware of the complaints police have received about scooters driving recklessly on city streets.
“He agrees with the legislation, and he aligns with the law," Rivero said through a translator.
Rivero said he requested and was granted asylum to the United States in 2020. He received a work permit, a license plate and driver’s license and said he delivers food to send money to family in Venezuela.
“He is aware of the negative narrative that flows around mopeds in D.C., but he just wants to show that he’s one of the good ones," the translator continued. “Driving regulations are different in the United States compared to those in Venezuela. That’s why you would see people not knowing how to adapt to these driving regulations, but he is for the police to persecute people who don’t adjust to the driving regulations in the city.”
DC Police say driving a scooter requires a license, license plate and insurance. They reiterated that scooter drivers must follow the same traffic laws as a car, meaing no driving on sidewalks or in bus lanes. Drivers are also are required to wear a helmet.
RELATED: What's behind the moped boom in DC?
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