Mobility Scooter Safety Tips

Mobility scooters are a great way to regain your independence and continue your daily routine. However, as with all vehicles, it is important to keep some safety pointers in mind. The ACCC has issued a number of basis safety guidelines to ensure that your experience with your motorised electric scooter is always an enjoyable one.

General Safety Guidelines

• Stay within the legal speed limit of 10 km/h.
• Be aware that taking medication or driving under the influence of alcohol may affect the user’s judgement.
• If you are carrying parcels, ensure that the load will not over-balance your motorised mobility device and that the parcels do not interfere with your controls or vision.

Protective gear

• Always make sure that you are clearly visible, particularly at night or on dull days—use the lights and reflectors and install a reflective safety flag at a height detectable to motorists.
• Wear a bicycle helmet whenever possible.

Pedestrians and footpaths

• Slow down when you are near other people, especially pedestrians and cyclists.
• Avoid stopping or driving on inclines greater than your scooter’s capabilities.
• Use footpaths if possible. If there are no footpaths, plan to use quieter roads.
• Plan your trip and avoid uneven surfaces, dips and potholes.

Content reproduced from the ACCC administered Product Safety Australia website