A new government consultation has opened on the rules governing powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters on public roads and pavements – a significant moment for people who rely on these devices for independence and everyday mobility.
Current regulations are nearly 40 years old and are widely considered outdated. This includes the continued use of the term “invalid carriages” in law, which disabled people’s organisations have long called to be replaced with language and regulation that better reflect lived experience and modern mobility needs.
Mobility scooter and powered wheelchair users are among our most vulnerable road users. In 2024,12 people were killed and 323 people were injured, with reported casualties now at an all-time high.*
What The Consultation Covers
The consultation is seeking views on:
- Updating how powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters are defined in law and who can use them
- Where these devices can be used – on pavements, roads or elsewhere
- Rules around size, speed and age for using larger devices
- Whether carrying a passenger should be allowed
- Whether other types of mobility devices should be permitted when used by disabled people or people with reduced mobility
The consultation does not change the law at this stage. Existing legislation remains in force while views are gathered to inform future policy, including how new mobility technology could be introduced safely.
Why Taking Part Matters
Decisions about powered mobility devices must be designed with users, not for them. This consultation is an opportunity for users, their families, carers and professionals to share real-world experience and help shape safer, clearer and more inclusive rules.
The Safer Mobility Campaign – launched by Surewise and supported by Nottingham Trent University and Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership – is urging mobility scooter users, powered wheelchair users and professionals to take part and have their say.
Richard Hannan, Director of Surewise, said, “We welcome this new government consultation, which represents an important development for the mobility scooter community. This reflects the progress we have been actively advocating for, and we welcome the opportunity to contribute our perspective.
“We strongly encourage all of our customers who use mobility scooters to participate in the consultation. Your voice is vital in shaping the future of mobility scooter safety and accessibility.“
How To Respond
The consultation is open now and closes at 11:59pm on 31 March 2026.
Take part online here:
www.gov.uk/government/consultations/reviewing-the-law-for-powered-mobility-devices
Responses can also be submitted by post or email. The consultation will be available in BSL, audio, large print and easy read formats.
Anyone requiring an alternative version or with questions about the process can contact:
[email protected]
Find out more about the Safer Mobility Campaign: www.surewise.com/safer-mobility/
*Source: reported casualty data, 2024.
