Rules for Powered Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters

Reference: 🔗 Gov.uk - Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters

Rule 36: Classification of Mobility Vehicles

  1. Manual wheelchairs: Class 1 (Invalid Carriage)
  2. Powered wheelchairs & scooters:
    1. Class 2: Max 4 mph (6 km/h), for pavement use
    2. Class 3: Max 8 mph (12 km/h), for road & pavement use

Rule 37: Following Road and Pavement Rules

  1. On roads: Follow vehicle rules
  2. On pavements: Follow pedestrian rules

Rule 38: Prioritizing Pedestrians on Pavements

  1. Pavements are safer and should be used when available.
  2. Give way to pedestrians, especially those with disabilities.

Rule 39: Speed Limits on Pavements

  1. Max 4 mph (6 km/h) on pavements or pedestrian areas.
  2. Slow down in crowded areas or narrow pavements.

Rule 40: Moving from Pavement to Road

  1. Check traffic before moving onto the road.
  2. Use dropped kerbs when possible.
  3. Avoid high kerbs beyond the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Rule 41: Safety When Driving on the Road

  1. Class 3 scooters are limited to 8 mph (12 km/h) on the road.
  2. They may be less visible than other vehicles.

Rule 42: Road Positioning & Direction of Travel

  1. Class 3 users: Travel with traffic flow.
  2. Class 2 users: Stay on pavements when available.
  3. Night travel: Lights MUST be used, travel with traffic.

Rule 43: Use of Lights, Indicators, and Horns

  1. Follow vehicle light & horn rules if fitted.
  2. Lights MUST be used at night (legal requirement).
  3. Increase visibility using reflective clothing or strips.

Rule 44: Navigating Junctions & Roundabouts

  1. Check for vehicles before crossing or turning.
  2. Avoid hazardous junctions & major roundabouts.
  3. Right turns options:
    1. Wait for a safe gap in traffic.
    2. Use the pavement & pedestrian crossings if needed.

Rule 45: Parking Rules for Mobility Vehicles

  1. Follow standard parking restrictions.
  2. Do not obstruct pedestrians or wheelchair users.
  3. Blue Badge concessions apply when displayed.

Rule 46: Motorway & Dual Carriageway Restrictions

  1. Prohibited on motorways.
  2. Avoid dual carriageways with limits over 50 mph.
  3. Flashing amber beacon required on all dual carriageways.