Buying a Scooter or Powered Wheelchair Manual Guide
So just what is a powered wheelchair or a scooter? We probably recognise them when we see them, but what are the features, the differences and the legal aspects? l The law There is legislation that separates scooters and powered wheelchairs in to categories Class 2 vehicles and Class 3 vehicles. Technically they are still called invalid carriages ! CLASS 2 Class 2 vehicles, which are sometimes referred to as pavement vehicles , are designed for use on the footway, which is defined as: a portion of a carriageway that is set aside for use only by pedestrians .
They are not allowed on roads other than to cross them and are limited to a maximum speed of 4mph. l Scooter Scooters are by far the more common of the powered mobility aids we see on our streets. They have three or four wheels and are steered using a handlebar, rather like a cycle. They have a battery pack and power from this drives motors on all or some of the wheels. Controls on the handlebar regulate speed and may include switches for a horn and lights. There is a single seat and there may be some provision to carry shopping or a bag in a basket or panniers. l Powered wheelchairs Powered wheelchairs look at least to some extent like a traditional wheelchair. They have between four and six wheels and a battery pack. Control of steering and speed is nearly always from a small joystick. There may be auxiliary switches next to the joystick. Powered wheelchairs range from very basic models little different to a small manual wheelchair with motors added, to sophisticated models with extras such as kerb climbers, height adjustable seats and even reclining seats. Prices for the lowest priced basic scooters can be under £400, but powered wheelchairs are rarely under £900. It is also possible to pay well over £6,000. There are no fixed prices so it does pay to shop around for both price and service.
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