Journal

We have this week seen more media coverage regarding mobility scooter driving tests in the Daily Mail and Daily Telegraph.

This coverage follows a high profile incident this summer where an 84 year old pedestrian was knocked down and killed by a mobility scooter. As a result many people in the government are now calling for more legislation to control the use of electric mobility scooters including the introduction of driving tests.

There is no doubt that in the wrong hands a mobility scooter can cause serious injury to the user and those around them, however is compulsory testing the solution?

Many people within the industry feel that an official written and practical test would cause concern to elderly people and may prevent them from having access to a product that may revolutionise their independence and improve their quality of life. Implementing this style of test nationally would also be extremely complex and expensive for all parties.

As a result we have campaigned over the last 3 years for better ‘’assessment’’ of a potential user prior to supplying the product.

In the past a traditional mobility company was always able to meet customers in person to assess their requirements in store or at their home.  Although certainly not foolproof this process did give an opportunity for a third party person to ensure the user had the physical ability to use the mobility scooter. Many reputable companies will refuse to supply the product if they do not believe the user is fit and able to operate it as this may breech the duty of care.

Unfortunately due to the growth in mail order supply (fuelled by the growth of the internet) a mobility scooter company may never see the customer. This means even someone with sever disabilities e.g. very restricted sight, can buy and operate a mobility scooter.

We feel a standardised assessment process to be completed with a new customer may be the answer, especially for 4mph rated scooters that will never be used on the road.

This assessment could include a checklist covering;

·         Standardised demonstration

·         Standardised training

·         Clarification of limitation on its use

·         Maintenance schedule

·         Role of insurance

·         Simply eye site test

·         Users demonstrate ability to mount and operate the scooter

Once completed the customer and company representative could sign checklist to show completion.

With relation to 8mp rated scooters the argument for compulsory driving tests is more compelling as is this product is effectively a powered vehicle that can be used on the public roads. This style scooter is also more liable for legislation change to impose compulsory insurance and mot style annual checks. The logistics of implementing these changes would be reduced as 8mph rated products account for only a small percentage of the total mobility scooters sold in the UK.