Matthew David Moore Obituary, Death – A deadly traffic accident in Robeson County, North Carolina, claimed the life of a South Carolina man on Saturday evening. Authorities confirmed that the crash involved a car and a moped along Highway 501 in the Maxton area. First Sgt. S.B. Lewis of the North Carolina Highway Patrol reported that the investigation revealed several factors contributing to the collision. According to Lewis, the moped was traveling west on Highway 501 at the time of the crash. Investigators noted that the moped’s rear lights were not functioning, making it difficult for other motorists to see it in the dark. Additionally, the rider was dressed in dark clothing, further reducing his visibility on the roadway.
The car involved in the incident was also headed westbound on the highway. Due to the lack of rear lights and the rider’s dark attire, the driver was unable to detect the moped in time to avoid a collision. The vehicle struck the moped directly on the roadway.
The impact caused the moped to veer off to the right side of the highway, where it eventually came to a stop in a roadside ditch. The rider was thrown from the moped during the crash. Emergency responders later identified the victim as 22-year-old Matthew David Moore of South Carolina. Sadly, Moore was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sgt. Lewis confirmed that Moore had not been wearing a helmet approved by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) at the time of the accident. The absence of proper protective headgear is believed to have contributed to the severity of his injuries. Investigators have not yet determined whether impairment played any role in the crash, though it remains under review.
The driver of the car was unhurt in the collision. Authorities also stated that there is no indication the driver was impaired at the time of the crash. The incident highlights the dangers faced by moped riders, particularly at night, when visibility is reduced and safety equipment becomes even more critical.
Highway 501 in Robeson County has been the site of multiple serious crashes in recent years, with state officials frequently stressing the importance of safety measures for both motorists and moped operators. Riders are required to wear helmets that meet NCDOT standards, use functioning lights, and ensure they are visible to other drivers, especially when traveling at night.
As the investigation continues, officials urge drivers to remain alert on rural highways, where low-light conditions can make smaller vehicles harder to spot. Authorities also emphasize that moped riders should take extra precautions, including reflective clothing and regular equipment checks, to help prevent tragedies like this one.
The crash serves as another sobering reminder of the importance of road safety and the vulnerabilities of two-wheeled vehicle operators. While the car’s driver escaped injury, the young man from South Carolina lost his life in circumstances that might have been preventable with greater visibility and protective gear.
