Look Out!

Scooters are about the best mode of transportation in the city. Not only are they small, cheap and fuel efficient, but they can do just about anything they like here. Scooter and motorcycle riders are at a whole different level of daring here. They drive in the on coming traffic lane, they weave in and out of lanes of traffic, they go on red lights, and worst of all they drive on the sidewalk. Let me tell you there is no difference in the sound of a scooter approaching from behind on the street or the sidewalk until they zip past you. I am amazed that no one ever gets hurt around here. I’ve seen more accidents outside my apartment in Urbana for the left turners in one week than I’ve seen here in 6 weeks. Honestly I haven’t even seen an accident. I saw one car getting towed that had been hit, but that was it. For a city of 1 million and numerous drivers and scooters you would think it would be more common.

So next time you make it to Italy beware of the Vespa.