LIGHTS
Check bulbs regularly and replace when needed, use your lights frequently, at dusk onwards, on a dull or rainy
day. However, remember the use of lights may reduce the range of your scooter.
SENSIBLE GUIDELINES FOR SAFETY
When using the footpath
Just because you are on the footpath or pedestrian precinct does not make you a pedestrian. If you are on a
motorized vehicle you are no longer a pedestrian.
Remember pedestrians always have right of way!
Many people on foot will be kind and helpful to the drivers of a wheelchair or scooter, but not everyone!
In a crowded precinct, market area, or footpath
It is your responsibility to ensure you do not run into anyone or do any harm with your vehicle. While many
people will make way for you, you cannot expect everyone to do so. Some will appear to not even realize you
are there. They will climb round and even over your vehicle rather than allow you room to move. Also be very
aware of people’s feet.
When climbing or descending kerbs
Always approach at right angles, with your front wheels straight on to the kerb. Do not climb or descend kerbs
higher than the manufacturer recommends. Move carefully, to avoid traumatic bumps – to yourself or the vehicle.
Watch out for:
•
Children – They may well run in front of you without warning. You may only be moving very slowly, but
you could still injure a child.
•
Elderly People – They may be unable to quickly move aside to let you pass. Give way to them
•
Disabled people on foot – they too may be unable to dodge you
•
People with visual problems or impaired hearing – Give them space and time
•
Other motorised vehicle users – You may be doing all the right things. This does not guarantee they will
do likewise
When you need help:
You may need to ask people to open doors for you
Most people are willing to help, if asked politely. Don’t struggle to do the impossible, or even the very difficult
things when there are people around who would help if asked.
Driving inside shops and buildings
This is where you have the advantage over car users! Not many supermarkets would welcome a car driving round
their store. But most bigger shops and even some quite small ones, are accessible to wheelchairs and scooters.
Once inside the store it is your responsibility to drive slowly and safely and not damage the fittings or the stock,
or hurt other shoppers or store workers. You may need to ask for help. Again in most cases people are willing if
asked properly. Don’t risk pulling down a whole display to reach the top shelf. ASK FOR HELP.
Speed in shops and buildings
Reduce it! – It is a good idea to set the speed control to a lower level to avoid any accident. Be especially careful
if you need to reverse, that your way is clear of shop fittings and people. Three wheeled scooters with their
maneuverability and lightness of steering are more suited to shopping.
On the Road
Remember you are not driving a car, but a very small and slow vehicle, which is therefore more vulnerable.
If it is possible, use the footpath. It is wise to avoid using roads, particularly busy ones.
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