Basically all mobility scooters can be driven with care on any pavements and public pathways. However, the larger mobility scooters that go at 8 miles per hour are legally allowed on the roads. Though we do suggest that you exercise caution when using the roads and only do it when you need to!

Please read to the end of this section if you would like to read the official Highway Authority wording on where you can use your mobility scooter.

Shopping
The whole point of having a mobility scooter or a powerchair is to enable you to live your life to the same quality as you did when your mobility wasn't such a problem.

When you go shopping look out for places that have good access for wheelchairs that will suit you on your mobility scooter too! In fact as of October 2004 it is a legal requirement for shops, hotels, cafes, in fact anywhere that the general public want to go, to have disability access, which is fantastic news for all you mobility scooter-users out there!

Days out!
On sunny days there is nothing better than getting out in the fresh air on your mobility scooter. A handy hint when you are trying to decide where to go for a ride round is to find places that have good cycle-paths. If a place is good for bikes then it will be great for your mobility scooter! As more people are getting mobility scooters places of attraction are taking scooter-users needs more seriously. If you are at all worried about using your mobility scooter somewhere then you can always ring ahead and check that you will be ok.

Another place you can ring is the Tourist Information Centre. Tell them you have a mobility scooter and ask them what they would suggest. They are usually very helpful!

Enjoying your mobility scooter!
Mobility scooters are designed to enhance the quality of your life. They can give you back the precious freedom that you maybe in danger of losing. Once you have made the decision to buy a scooter (that is the biggest step) enjoy it!

HAPPY SCOOTERING!!

CLASS 2 MOBILITY SCOOTERS

Legally these scooters can travel up to 6.4kph (4mph) on pavements and are allowed on the road to cross from one side of the road to the other. In other words anywhere you are permitted to travel on foot. This category includes any 4 mph mobility scooter and travel scooters.

CLASS 3 MOBILITY SCOOTERS

The main difference between Class 3 and Class 2 vehicles is that Class 3 vehicles tend to be larger and can be used on the roads where they can travel up to 12.8kph (8mph). It is usually possible to drive at 6.4 kph (4mph) and switch to 12.8kph (8mph).

Class 3 vehicle users do not require a driving license but should obey the Highway Code at all times. This includes complying with relevant eyesight requirements and not driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs etc.

Class 3 vehicles are not allowed on motorways, bicycle tracks or bus/cycle lanes. Although legally allowed on dual carriageways, with a compliant size, flashing beacon, this is not recommended.

Our experience tells us that the use of a mobility scooter on a road should be avoided wherever possible.

Scooter speeds-explained

Most class 3-mobility scooters have two speed settings, usually changed by a switch.

12.8kph - 8mph maximum speed
Permitted only on the road. Not for use on the pavement or footpath.

6.4kph - 4mph maximum speed
Permitted on the pavement or footpath.

The law requires all class 3 vehicles to be fitted with Lights, indicators, horn, rear view mirror, rear reflectors and a manual handbrake. A flashing beacon can be used when driving on the road to warn other road users of their presence, and must be used if driving on a dual carriageway.

Insurance is not legally required for any powered vehicle in any category, Class 2 for pavement use or Class 3 for pavement and road use. However, it is recommended that the purchaser have at least 3rd party/public liability Insurance, covering accidental damage to other people and property. Remember, no matter how good a driver you are, accidents happen!

Do I need Mobility Scooter Insurance?

Currently there is no legal requirement for you to insure your mobility scooter in the same way that there is for anyone who drives a car. However, bad luck can happen to anybody and we feel that it is sensible to take steps to make sure that you are covered should you be unlucky enough to have an accident or become the victim of a crime.

Insuring your mobility scooter or powerchair against theft, accidental damage and having some third party liability to cover you should you cause any damage or injury to someone else, whilst you are using your mobility scooter, or powerchair, can be very in expensive, probably much less than you would pay to insure a car!

Mark Bates Ltd is a specialist mobility insurer and they have very many years experience in dealing with all aspects of mobility liabilities.

We have been working with them for over 10 years and have found them to be very customer focused in their approach to our mutual customers and they have proved themselves to be extremely even handed in their approach to any claims that arise.

Do I need road tax for my mobility scooter?

No. At this time there is no requirement for you to have any "road tax" in the same way that you do with a car. You do however have some obligations and restrictions in relation to where you can use you mobility scooter. Click below for more detail.

Where do I store my Mobility Scooter?

People store their mobility scooters in all kinds of places. Some keep their scooter in the luxury of the living room or kitchen and many people store them in the hallway. Others keep them under a cover at the front of the house.

The best place to store your mobility scooter really is an outdoor shed or garage. Ideally your storage place should be large enough for you to drive into and get off the scoter, even better if you have enough space to turn around so that you are facing the right direction the next time you want to go out.

The main thing is that the facility is dry and protected from extreme cold and heat.

Also, you will need to think about a power supply so that you can charge your mobility scooter. Ideally, you would have a power point in your garage or shed so that you can plug it in to charge after you have used it. That way it will be full of power and ready to use the next time you need it.

Many people who do not have access to a garage or shed will keep their mobility scooter under a cover. These covers are great if you have limited space and need to store your scooter close to your home. If necessary, power can be fed via an extension lead to the scooter when it is safe to do so.