Monday 6 January 2014

Can I use a mobility scooter on the road?

As mobility scooters gain popularity, many people want to know whether or not they can be used on UK roads.

The answer depends on the mobility scooter itself. If the mobility scooter is a "Class 3" with a maximum speed of  8mph, you should be able to drive it on the road.

When buying a new or second-hand mobility scooter, the seller should be able to advise whether or not it is suitable.

For anyone who isn't sure however, we hope this article will be of some use. 

Roadworthiness


As class 3 scooters can be used on the road, the law requires them to have a number of additional features as standard.

Class 3 mobility scooters must be or have:

  • Maximum speed of 8mph
  • Ability to limit speed to 4mph for pavement use
  • Efficient braking system
  • An audible horn
  • Front and rear lights, along with reflectors
  • Direction indicators to signal turning and capable of a hazard warning signal
  • One or more mirrors allowing for a rear view
  • Maximum unladen weight of 150kg
  • Maximum width of 85cm
  • Amber flashing light if it will be used on a dual carriageway
  • Registered with the DVLA and carrying a 'nil value' tax disc
  • Driver aged 14 or over

You do not need to take a driving test to drive a mobility scooter on the road, but like a cyclist, you still must adhere to the highway code.

At present, a class 3 scooter does not require an annual MOT as would a car, but we would strongly recommend regular servicing of your mobility scooter to ensure roadworthiness.

Perhaps also surprisingly, it isn't currently a legal requirement to have insurance for your scooter, but again we'd highly recommend it. Otherwise you could be liable for costly claims for personal injury and damage to other vehicles.

Where Can I Drive?


Although you can drive on the road in a class 3 scooter, you cannot drive in bus lanes, any 'cycle only' cycle lanes and most definitely not on the motorway.

We wouldn't recommended it due to the speed of other vehicles, but you can use a dual carriageway provided that your scooter carries an amber flashing light to warn other users of your presence.

Finally, when using the pavement, you must switch your scooter down to its 4mph restricted setting. If your scooter does not allow this, it is not suitable for use on the pavement.

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