Mobility Scooter Concerns

We expect to see more calls for improved regulation of mobility scooters after another serious accident this week.

This incident occurred on Tuesday 21st July in the popular coastal holiday town of Sandown on the Isle of Wight. It is believed a female pedestrian in her 70’s was run over by a man in his 90’s whilst using his mobility scooter on the pavement. The lady was taken to St Mary’s hospital suffering from what is thought to be serious injuries.

Such incidents always raise questions relating to the way these vehicles are sold and how users are assessed before and after purchase.  As it stands anyone can buy a mobility scooter via the internet and use without any initial or ongoing assessment, training or test.

Many reputable mobility companies and members of the BHTA (British Healthcare Trade Association) complete an initial assessment of users along with full product demonstrations, however this is not compulsory.

There is also no legal requirement for mobility scooter users to have third party liability insurance. Whilst many responsible owners choose to take out mobility scooter insurance to cover their vehicle it is still a matter of personal choice.
Distressing events, such as those on the Isle of Wight this week, surely raises questions about the suitability of the current law.