Safety while driving is a priority for anyone who has just bought a mobility scooter, or is considering it. It is important to know how to safely control the scooter and understand the road rules.
A scooter is similar to a car in that it requires a key to start and accelerates the same as a vehicle. A lever is located on the handlebars, and it is operated primarily by the thumb. The scooter’s forward and reverse movement is controlled by this lever. Handlebars can also be used to turn the front column, which is the steering column. The scooter has no brakes, as it will only move when the lever is pushed and stop once the lever is released. You can get training for your Class 3 road scooter at mobility centres and disability living services, as well as learning how to load one into your WAV Vehicles. Find out more at clarkemobility.com
As long as you drive with consideration, getting around can be liberating and enjoyable. While driving on the pavement, pedestrians have the right-of-way and you cannot exceed 4 mph. In crowded areas you may need to go slower as you need to weave your way around people. To prevent the scooter from tipping, you should turn corners at a slower speed.
It is safer to use a road scooter away from busy roads. The Highway Code also applies. Scooters are not allowed to be driven on bus lanes, cycle lanes, motorways or dual carriageways with a speed limit over 50mph. A road scooter does not require taxation, but it must be registered with the DVLA. It also needs to display a nil-value tax disc. Insurance is optional, but recommended.