Powered Mobility Rules

What are the different classes of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters?There are two classes of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters, in addition to manual wheelchairs (Class 1). Class 2 vehicles have a maximum speed of 4 mph (6 km/h) and are designed for pavement use. Class 3 vehicles have a maximum speed of 8 mph (12 km/h) and are equipped for use on both roads and pavements.
When using a powered wheelchair or mobility scooter, which rules should I follow on the road and on the pavement?When operating a powered wheelchair or mobility scooter on the road, you should follow the guidance and rules applicable to other vehicles. When on the pavement, you should adhere to the guidance and rules for pedestrians.
What is the recommended speed limit for powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters on pavements?Powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters MUST NOT travel faster than 4 mph (6 km/h) on pavements or in pedestrian areas. You may need to slow down further to accommodate other pavement users who may not be able to move quickly or on narrow pavements.
What precautions should be taken when moving from a pavement onto the road?When moving from a pavement onto the road, extreme care should be taken. Always look around to ensure it is safe to join the traffic before moving off. It is always best to use dropped kerbs when available, even if it means traveling a longer distance. If you must navigate a kerb, approach it at right angles and do not attempt a kerb higher than recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
What are the rules regarding travel direction for Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles on the road?When on the road, Class 3 vehicles should travel in the direction of traffic. Class 2 users should use the pavement whenever possible. If there is no pavement, Class 2 users should exercise caution and, where possible, travel in the direction of traffic. At night, when lights are required, both classes should travel in the direction of traffic to avoid confusing other road users.
What are the requirements for using lights, indicators, and horns on powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters when on the road?If your vehicle is fitted with lights, indicators, and horns, you MUST follow the same rules for their use as other road vehicles. Lights MUST be used at night. It is also important to be aware that other road users may not see you and to make yourself more visible, even during the day and at dusk, perhaps by wearing a reflective jacket or adding reflective strips to the vehicle.
How should powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters handle road junctions and right turns?Take extra care at road junctions. When going straight, check for vehicles crossing from the left, right, or overtaking and turning left. For right turns, if moving into the middle of the road is difficult or dangerous, you can either stop on the left-hand side and wait for a safe gap or negotiate the turn as a pedestrian by using the pavement and crossing where safe. Class 3 users should switch to the lower speed limit when on pavements. If a junction is too hazardous, consider an alternative route. Similarly, for major roundabouts with two or more lanes, it may be safer to use the pavement or find a route that avoids the roundabout.
Are there any restrictions on where powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used?Powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters MUST NOT be used on motorways. They should not be used on unrestricted dual carriageways with a speed limit exceeding 50 mph (80 km/h). If they are used on these dual carriageways, they MUST have a flashing amber beacon. A flashing amber beacon should also be used on all other dual carriageways.