WHILE I understand and applaud the added independence afforded many people by mobility scooters, I cannot help but think that many users are not only a danger to themselves but also to others.
I frequently see people using them on busy roads and even negotiating roundabouts, when the machine is clearly neither designed for, nor fit for such usage.
Often other road users have to swerve or brake suddenly when mobility scooters drive on to the road without care for safety.
A friend was stopped by the police for using her scooter on the road and explained that she was told by the salesman that it was legal to do so. The police officer admitted that he was not fully conversant with the law covering such usage. Can anyone perhaps shed some light on this apparent grey area?
Surely there must be a requirement for registration of the vehicle at DVLA, some sort of roadworthiness test and also insurance before being allowed for use on the highway. Children are taught in many schools how to ride a bike.
Could there not be a provision/requirement for a mobility scooter proficiency training scheme?
I am not against scooters. I am just concerned that while improving the quality of life they could also lead to a shortening of it.
CHRIS YOUNG Great Sankey
