Mobility scooter safety – top tips
Heading out on a mobility scooter should open up new opportunities to socialise, shop, explore, and enjoy your independence. However, there are some key safety tips to keep in mind to protect both yourself and your scooter and avoid any mobility scooters accidents.
Here are our top tips for mobility scooter safety:
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Familiarise yourself with your mobility scooter
If you’re new to using a mobility scooter – or are switching to a different model – it’s essential to get to know how it works before you head out. Test the controls, see how it handles, and learn how fast it can go. The more confident you are with handling your mobility scooter, the safer you’ll feel when you’re out and about.
Plan your route
If you’re heading somewhere new, it’s helpful to find out in advance if there are any narrow paths, steep hills or unusual obstacles that you may need to navigate.
One question we often get asked is “Can mobility scooters topple over?”. The answer is yes they can! Indeed one of the most common causes of injury is caused by going over steep kerbs and tipping over. To avoid this, use dropped kerbs where possible and make sure that you approach kerbs head-on.
Travelling by public transport? Read our guide to using your mobility scooter on the bus, train or tube.
Check your battery
Before you leave home, make sure your battery has sufficient charge and will safely take you to your destination and back again.
Want more battery care tips? Check out our mobility scooter battery care blog.
Take essential items
Good planning helps reduce stress and ensures your trip isn’t rushed. Remember to pack some essential items to take with you, including water, any medication, your mobile phone, emergency contact details, and a coat and/or waterproof jacket in case of unpredictable weather.
Let someone know you’re going out
It’s a good idea to let a friend or neighbour know where you are going and when you are likely to be back, just in case of any unforeseen issues. It’s a small step that can be very helpful in case of an emergency.
Maintain your scooter
Regular maintenance can help keep your scooter safe, comfortable and reliable.
As part of your maintenance routine, give it a good clean, check key components, and schedule a service to catch faults before they become a safety problem.
Know the rules of the road
Whether you are a class 2 or class 3 mobility scooter user it’s important to understand the rules of the road to avoid mobility scooter accidents.
Make sure you focus on your journey without any distractions (such as your mobile phone), stick to the relevant speed limit, always take care around pedestrians, and look both ways when crossing roads.
Make sure you can see and be seen; use lights if there are any on your scooter, and wear hi vis to be more visible – especially on road-legal mobility scooters.
And finally, don’t drink and drive on your mobility scooter!
Mobility scooter security
To keep your mobility scooter from being stolen – and potentially leaving you stranded on your outing – it’s worth investing in a lock, clamp or alarm for your mobility scooter. These small additions can be a big deterrent, especially when your scooter is parked in public places.
Want to know how to keep a mobility scooter safe and secure at home? Take a look at our advice on ways to store your mobility scooter.
Consider scooter insurance
In case of any accidents to you or your scooter, it’s worth taking out mobility scooter insurance for peace of mind. While not legally required, it can protect you in case of accidental damage, theft, or public liability. Some policies also offer breakdown assistance, helping you get home safely if your mobility scooter fails mid-journey.
Monarch Mobility – At the heart of mobility safety
At Monarch Mobility, we know that having a scooter that you feel comfortable and confident driving will make you safer and happier. That’s why we offer free home demos to ensure you’re getting the right product for your lifestyle and needs.
From compact folding scooters to powerful road-ready models, our team is here to help you stay mobile, independent, and safe.
Explore our range online or contact us today to book your free home demonstration.
