Mobility Scooter Travel

24th June 2021

If you have recently acquired a mobility scooter and you aren’t experienced in driving it on the roads, here are some tips for you on how to drive your scooter safely:

• Don’t take your scooter out until you’ve had enough training or practice to feel confident.
• Be aware of your surroundings – watch out for other pedestrians and vehicles.
• Turn your scooter off when you’re not moving. Bags and clothing can easily catch on the accelerator lever.
• If going up slopes or kerbs, make sure you stay stable on your mobility scooter.
• Familiarise yourself with the relevant parts of the Highway Code, particularly if you’ll be using a class 3 scooter on the road.

See the Department for Transport guide Mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs on the road – some guidance for users

Safety checks

It’s important to keep your mobility scooter well-maintained. Repairs and maintenance are included if you get a scooter through Motability. Check with the retailer if you’re buying privately.

To make sure that your scooter is safe to use, regularly check that:

• All plugs and wires are connected properly.
• No bare wires are exposed.
• Tyres are inflated to the correct pressure (if necessary).
• All locking pins and assembly mechanisms are locked.
• The seat is adjusted and locked in place.
• The battery is fully charged.
• The brakes are in working order.