Department for Transport
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New safety measures for mobility scooters
A series of reforms aimed at modernising the regulation of mobility vehicles were today announced by Transport Minister Sadiq Khan.
The proposals aim to ensure that disabled people maintain their independence whilst increasing safety for mobility vehicle users, pedestrians and other road users.
Sadiq Khan said:
"Evidence suggests that over the last few years there has been a steady increase in the number of mobility vehicles and, with an ageing population, this trend is likely to increase.
"On top of this, the technology for the vehicles themselves is becoming increasingly sophisticated. It is only right then that legislation is brought up to date to reflect these advancements.
"Mobility vehicles are a vital lifeline for many people and we want to ensure that everyone who needs one is able to use them safely and securely."
The consultation - which will be open for 12 weeks - sets out a number of ways in which safety might be improved including:
- changes to the legal definition of scooters;
- changes to the maximum permitted weight of scooters, and whether they should continue to carry only one person;
- changes to design speeds and permitted speeds for those vehicles which can be used on the highway;
- moving to mandatory, rather than voluntary insurance;
- changes to the registration arrangements, either through reforms to the current DVLA system or through a move to a more locally based scheme;
- improving the collection of data regarding the number and safety of these vehicles.
The consultation will cover both mobility scooters which are intended to help people with reduced mobility and powered wheelchairs for those who need help with everyday movement.
Notes to Editors
1. The consultation can be found here www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/open/2010-10 and will close on Friday 28 May 2010.
2. Information relating to wheelchair and scooter users and their access to the transport infrastructure can be found here http://www.dft.gov.uk/transportforyou/access
Press Enquires: 020 7944 3066 Out of Hours: 020 7944 4292 Public Enquiries: 0300 330 3000 Department for Transport Website: http://www.dft.gov.uk
Contacts:
Local Transport
Phone: 020 7944 3066
nds.dft@coi.gsi.gov.uk
