Should I Have Mobility Scooter Insurance?

Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2010/08/28 - Updated: 2025/01/26
Publication Type: Informative
Topic: Electric Mobility Scooters - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Though mobility scooter insurance is not a legal requirement everywhere you should at least insure against third party liability.

Why it matters: This article emphasizes the importance of obtaining insurance for mobility scooter users, highlighting that while it may not be legally required in all areas, securing coverage is crucial for several reasons. It discusses the potential financial implications of third-party liability in cases where a user might cause an accident resulting in injury or property damage, noting that compensation claims can reach substantial amounts. Additionally, the article underscores the need for policies that cover personal injuries, damages to the scooter itself, and protection against theft, especially given the high value of some models. It also advises ensuring that insurance includes provisions for breakdown assistance, preferably offering 24-hour service, and considering coverage during travel. The article concludes by recommending that consumers choose insurance providers endorsed by government or medical organizations to ensure reliability and comprehensive protection - Disabled World (DW).

Introduction

Mobile or mobility scooters are a common sight nowadays on our roads and pavements. You'll know when you're coming upon one, as they're usually outfitted with a fairly long pole with a highly visible flag atop! They provide a good degree of freedom to the infirm and elderly that has not in the past been obtainable to them. But, with this increase in their use there also comes responsibility and risk.

Main Item

In most jurisdictions, mobility scooter insurance is not yet a legal requirement; however there is a real need for users to insure, and that is for third party liability, which will occur if the driver ever causes a traffic accident or an injury to a person, or someone's property.

As important, is that your health is a very valid reason to be insured while riding a mobile scooter. A decent Mobility scooter insurance policy would cover your expenses for injuries when you suffer in a mishap.

Public liability could amount to a substantial sum in extreme cases like fatal accidents, likely into the hundreds of thousands of dollars and a well structured policy would cover the outlandish claims our system has so generously allowed to be upheld; therefore do check the limit on the insurance companies offer.

Your mobility scooter insurance should also cover you for damages caused to your own machine, and these could often mean the expense of a new mobility scooter. Check also that your provider is including storm or fire damage, highly unlikely to occur, but pricey if it does, especially if this rider has been overlooked.

Theft is regrettably a fact of life and theft of mobile scooters even electric wheelchairs is on the increase since bigger models come with such a large price tag. Your mobility scooter insurance must cover you for the complete value of your mobility scooter, if you're unfortunate enough to lose one from theft.

An essential consideration is also breakdown assistance or malfunctioning rescue. Imagine, if your scooter stops functioning while you are away from home, make sure that the policy includes call-out rescue in order to get you back home. Preferably this must be a 24 hours service and do not forget to keep the telephone number with you all the time.

What about while you are on a trip?

Again, you have to check the policy provides holiday coverage and make sure you check the terms and conditions carefully in order to see which parts of the country are covered and whether you are covered for the trip.

Sometimes a timely phone call to your provider before you set off, is time well spent.

To Summarize

Whether you should have mobility scooter insurance depends on your personal circumstances, usage, and local regulations. While mobility scooter insurance is not legally required in many areas, it can provide valuable protection. Here are some considerations:

• Liability Coverage: Insurance can cover costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property while using your scooter.
• Theft and Damage: Policies often cover the cost of repairs or replacement in case of theft, vandalism, or accidents.
• Medical Costs: Some insurance plans may include coverage for injuries resulting from an accident involving your scooter.
• Peace of Mind: Insurance provides assurance that unexpected incidents won't result in significant financial burdens.
• Local Requirements: In some countries or regions, public scooter use may require liability insurance, especially if the scooter is used on roads.

Assess how often you use your scooter, the environments in which you travel, and the potential risks. If you rely heavily on your scooter or live in a high-traffic area, insurance could be a worthwhile investment.

When buying Mobility Scooters insurance, ensure the insurance company brand you purchase from is endorsed by the government or by a medical organization.

Author Credentials: Ian was born and grew up in Australia. Since then, he has traveled and lived in numerous locations and currently resides in Montreal, Canada. Ian is the founder, a writer, and editor in chief for Disabled World. Ian believes in the Social Model of Disability, a belief developed by disabled people in the 1970s. The social model changes the focus away from people's impairments and towards removing barriers that disabled people face daily. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and achievements, check out his bio.