Current legislations state that there is no requirement for a user of a mobility scooter to hold adequate insurance, unlike car users who are legally required to hold adequate insurance. However, users should give careful consideration to taking out at least third party insurance to cover any potential claims that could be made should the user cause injury of damage to persons or property. As these claims can often run to ten of thousands of pounds if not more, plus any legal costs which are incurred. Consideration should also be given to taking our adequate insurance to cover the scooter itself. A new scooter can cost hundreds of pounds and insuring it against damage, theft etc could be a financial sound decision.
The DVLA make the following comments with reference to mobility scooter insurance:
“Although it is not a legal requirement, it is strongly advised to have insurance. Suitable schemes are not too expensive and are available to cover your personal safety, other people’s safety and the value of the vehicle.”
As discussed previously the insurance can be divided into two areas; The Scooter itself and Third parties (people and property)
Insuring the Scooter
The cover for the scooter usually protects you against the cost of repairs to, or replacement of the mobility product in the event of an accident. Some policies also cover or will pay towards the recovery costs of getting you and your mobility product home following an accident or breakdown. Users should check to see the level of cover being offered on the policy.
Third Party Insurance
If you accidentally hit anyone or anyone’s property and you are sued for negligence the insurance should pay for your defence and the resultant damages if you are found to be negligent. Such claims can be very expensive and insurance to cover legal costs and law suites would be very worth while. Such situation could include hitting a pedestrian, crashing onto a car, or causing an accident through negligent driving.
Conclusion
It is worth while holding adequate insurance to cover your scooter and any potential third party claims against you should any accidents occur. Shop around to ensure you receive a good quote which offers adequate cover.
