Are mobility scooters allowed on the pavement?
Yes, mobility scooters are allowed on the pavement in the UK but they are limited to a speed of 4mph (6.4kph). Class 2 mobility scooters are restricted to 4mph (6.4kph) and specifically designed to be used in pedestrian areas and along roadside walkways. Class 3 mobility scooters have a maximum speed of 8mph (12kph) and are therefore suitable for use on UK roads. However, the scooter operator can limit the speed down to 4mph (6.4kph) using the onboard controls, therefore Class 3 scooters can also be used on the pavement under these conditions.
Roadside walkways and paved paths are generally safer than roads and should be used when available. It is important that you understand the rules and follow the Highway Code guidance when travelling in this manner. In particular you must show due consideration, and always give priority to, pedestrians and other footpath users. Take special care when navigating near those with a visual or hearing impairment as they may not be aware that you are in the vicinity.
4mph (6.4kph) should be considered the upper speed limit when using a mobility scooter on the pavement. It may be necessary to adjust your rate of movement downwards depending on the speed of other pavement users, particularly at busy times when people may stop suddenly. Also, bear in mind that people may not be able to move out of the way in certain circumstances such as if the walkway is limited in width. Avoid causing other footpath users stepping out onto the road to avoid you.
If you are using a Class 3 mobility scooter and you need to move off the raised walkway to join the road, be particularly cautious. Before advancing always check in every direction to ensure that it is safe to join the public highway and prevailing traffic. Whenever possible use dropped kerbs to move off of the footpath. This may mean heading further up the walkway to locate one. In instances where you have to negotiate a kerb, advance towards it at right angles and do not attempt to pass over it if it is greater than the scooter manufacturers recommended clearance height.
It is compulsory to use lights when wayfaring at night. Being visible is also imperative. Try to move in the same direction as the traffic if at all possible. This will help to avoid confusing other roads users. If you are travelling along the road you may need to adjust your speed and rejoin the pavement when encountering difficult or hazardous junctions. Generally it will be safer if you find a footpath when approaching a larger junction or roundabout with two or more lanes. Users of Class 3 scooters should adjust their movement rate down to 4mph (6.4kph) as they rejoin with the walkway. Watch out for other pedestrians as you manoeuvre.
Your scooter should not be left unattended if it is blocking the pavement or obstructing the movement of other pedestrians, especially those with impaired mobility.
All of the scooters in the TGA range can be used on the pavement in the UK. A number have been specifically designed for use along footpaths and pedestrian areas. The rest of our scooters are defined as ‘class 3 invalid carriages’, and are therefore road legal and allowed on the road in the UK.
