Monday 18 January 2010

Do I need road tax for my mobility scooter?

Do I need road tax for my mobility scooter?

If you have a scooter which is not capable of more than 4 mph you do not need to hold any "road tax". However, if your scooter is capable of more than 4mph, you are obliged to apply for a tax disc from ther DVLA. The disc is free of charge and it is essentially a registering process for your machine.


Generally speaking mobility scooters can be driven (with care!) on public pathways and pavements and the larger scooters, the ones that go at 8 miles per hour, are legally allowed on the roads. However, experience has taught us that driving your scooter on public roads should be avoided wherever possible.


Do remember though that there are some obligations and restrictions as to where you can you use your mobility scooter.


Class 2 Scooters


Class 2 pavement scooters can legally travel up to 6.4kph (4mph) on pavements and are allowed on the road to cross from one to the other. Basically this allows you to drive anywhere you are permitted to travel on foot. The Class 2 category includes any 4 mph mobility and travel scooters.


Class 3 Scooters


Class 3 road scooters tend to be larger, than those found in Class 2, and can be driven on the roads where they can travel up to a speed of 12.8kph (8mph). Most class 3-mobility scooters have two speed settings, usually changed by a switch so it is usually possible to drive at 6.4 kph (4mph) and switch to 12.8kph (8mph).


Remember - 6.4kph (4mph) maximum speed is permitted on the pavement or footpath. 12.8kph (8mph) maximum speed is permitted only on the road. Not for use on the pavement or footpath.


You do not require a driving license to use a Class 3 vehicle but you should obey the Highway Code at all times, including complying with relevant eyesight requirements and not driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs etc.


Class 3 vehicles are not allowed on motorways, bicycle tracks or bus/cycle lanes. Although legally allowed on dual carriageways, with a compliant size, flashing beacon - this is not recommended.


The law requires all class 3 vehicles to be fitted with: lights, indicators, horn, rear view mirror, rear reflectors and a manual handbrake. A flashing beacon can be used when driving on the road to warn other road users of their presence, and must be used if driving on a dual carriageway.

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Can I get my mobility scooter into a car?

Most transportable mobility scooter models have been designed so they can fit easily into most cars by either folding down or dismantling it into easily manageable pieces that are stowed in the boot or on the back seat.


You are also able to take apart some of the larger mobility scooter models, however, because of their size the component parts will be heavier to lift. Although larger scooters are more comfortable to use - they are less easy to transport.


If you have a people carrier or an estate car you may be able to get your scooter in using ramps. Although, this is fairly straightforward it is important that you select the right scooter and ramp combination.


If you don’t mind fitting your car with a hook and a pulley lifting system, you have the option of being able to hoist a mobility scooter into your car. Again it is important that you make sure that the car and scooter are compatible with a hoist system.


We are happy to advise you on these types of combinations, contact us for more information.

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