To help new mobility scooter owners we have published some basic tips that we have received from other users on our website. Before driving a mobility scooter you should refer to the Highway Code's Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters to ensure you have the very latest information possible. If you feel you would benefit from extra training some local police services offer mobility scooter training schemes aimed at improving your skills. It is also vital to ensure you understand the classification of your mobility scooter and whether it can be used on the road or payment only.
Before Your First Trip
Familiarise yourself with the mobility scooter prior to making your first trip outside the home and get used to steering, starting and stopping.
Some people advise practising with the mobility scooter in a safe area prior to using on the pavement or on the road. Build up the length of your trips gradually as your confidence grows. This will also give you a chance to test the battery range of your disability mobility scooter. Always drive your mobility scooter slowly and cautiously on public payments and give priority to pedestrians.
Always treat pedestrians with respect. Consider carefully where you park your mobility scooter so that it is secure and does not form an obstruction. Many mobility scooters have a speed setting which can be used to minimise your actual speed and allow you more time to access the pavement ahead. It is important to always set a maximum speed of 4pm when driving a road scooter on a pavement.
Use lowered curbs rather than trying to mount or descend a full curb height as the majority of scooters are not designed for this. Failure to use lowered curbs can make a scooter unstable and could cause damage to your mobility scooter.
Always use minimal speed when turning as the mobility scooter is at its most unstable and try to avoid peak times when pavements are very busy.
Watch our scooter reviews to learn more before ordering from one of our shops.