MP calls for compulsory mobility scooter insurance (From Echo)

MP calls for compulsory mobility scooter insurance

9:50am Monday 21st September 2009 in News

A TORY MP has called on the Government to introduce new laws forcing mobility scooter users to take out insurance.

David Amess, MP for Southend West, lodged a parliamentary written question suggesting the Government should introduce legislation over mobility scooter insurance.

Transport minister Chris Mole replied and said there were “no plans” to bring in new laws.

However, Mr Amess’s intervention has won support from companies selling scooters in south Essex.

Ron Sverdloff, a director of the Scooter Club UK which runs three Lifestyle and Mobility Shops selling scooters in Leigh, Shoebury and Basildon, said: “I’m astounded that it’s not a legal requirement already.

“As you get older you lose your ability to retain the skills you learned when you were younger.

“It’s not a fault of the individual, it’s a part of ageing, a natural process. But that makes them a little bit more risky on the pavements.

“Insurance is a good idea for everybody’s benefit.”

But mobility scooter users say any compulsory insurance would be too pricey.

Olive Mermod, 83, of Poynings Avenue, Southchurch, has had a mobility scooter for two years, but says insurance should not be compulsory.

She said: “My scooter doesn’t go on the road as it has only got three wheels.

“Mine is very safe and I have not had any accidents in the time I have used it. What is needed is places for scooters to cross the road safely.

“I wouldn’t be able to go anywhere without my scooter. I use it to get to the shops and bring my shopping back. If insurance was compulsory I wouldn’t be able to afford to go out.”

In his response to Mr Amess, the minister said: “We do strongly recommend mobility scooter users take out insurance and that they avail themselves of the advice and training available in a number of locations such as Shopmobility venues (a charity organisation which hires out mobility scooters).”

Mr Amess did not return our calls to comment on his parliamentary question.