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Go for it!

Helping you Scoot About!

People with mobility difficulties are being advised to think carefully about their options when buying and using mobility scooters.

The scooters – which are increasing in popularity across the country - can provide a lifeline for people who find it difficult to walk any great distance. But county council highways chiefs are urging people to think carefully before purchasing the machines.

Potential buyers of mobility scooters are advised to have a pre-purchase assessment by a qualified supplier of mobility scooters to ensure the machine is suited to them.

It would be advisable to ask the following questions before buying a scooter:

  • Is the machine to be used on the road or footpath?
  • Different speeds are appropriate for different uses.
  • Has it been registered? If the mobility scooter is a road-going machine, it should be registered with the DVLA; licensed in the “disabled” taxation class; and display a nil tax duty disc.

Further information is available at www.dvla.gov.uk or by calling 0870 240 0010.

  • Has the machine been insured? Whilst not compulsory, it is highly recommended that insurance is taken out.
  • Where will the scooter be stored? Will portable ramps be required? How and where will the battery be charged?
  • Safety is vital for the user and other road users. Anyone using a scooter on the road would benefit from wearing bright or luminous clothing especially in bad weather or in poor lighting conditions.

For a question and answer leaflet, contact Durham County Council’s Home Independence Service on 0191 386 0742 or email his@durham.gov.uk.

The leaflet can also be downloaded at www.durham.gov.uk/HIS