DfT seeks to modernise outdated mobility scooter laws with the aim of improving accessibility and safety
The government has announced plans to update 40-year-old laws governing mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs, devices used by an estimated 1.5% of people aged over 65 in the West Midlands.
It is running a 12-week consultation before it updates regulations for powered mobility devices. The aim is to help reflect modern technology and modern safety standards.
Govt review aligns with TfWM’s aims
For the West Midlands, the consultation aligns with TfWM’s “big move” strategy, which claims 50% of all regional trips are made without cars and aims to make travel more inclusive for mobility-restricted people.
Current outdated laws include weight limits, making it impossible for many wheelchair users to travel on pavements and access public transport – a source of regional and national anger for disability campaigners.
Over 10 million people in the UK have mobility-related impairments
Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms MP, said: “We are determined to break down barriers to opportunity for disabled people and improve access to assistive technology, as well as making sure that the laws around its use are up to date.”
Isabelle Clement, director of Wheels for Wellbeing, said: “We are delighted to see the Department for Transport consulting on modernising laws on ‘powered mobility devices’. Over 10 million people in the UK have mobility-related impairments and existing laws create confusion, restrict market innovation and limit disabled people’s freedom to travel.”
Nick Goldup, CEO of Wheelchair Alliance CIC, “wholeheartedly welcomed” the review, saying: “For too long, wheelchair users have been sidelined by outdated legislation and offensive terminology. Many individuals using wheelchairs over 150kg have been left feeling anxious and worried about breaking the law.”
The powered mobility devices consultation closes on March 31. Government will be publish its response thereafter.
