As the law stands at the moment, you do not legally have to have insurance for your mobility scooter. There are good reasons to have insurance though:

• In case your scooter is damaged, or stolen.
• In case you cause an accident in your scooter, either to a pedestrian or property.
• We all think we are good drivers, but sometimes accidents do happen.

Mobility scooters can be expensive to buy and they are your link to mobility and independence. Insurance can mean you keep your independence in the event of something happening to your scooter.

Here is some information on mobility scooter insurance.

Types of insurance

• Third Party insurance – covers repairs and damage you have caused to other property/people.
• Insurance to cover repairs/damage to your scooter.

Typical Insurance Benefits – what does all the jargon mean?

• Any Driver – are YOU insured or is it your SCOOTER that is insured? With any driver policies, you can let other people drive your scooter with your permission and they are covered by your insurance.
• Accidental Damage – for example – are you covered if you back your car into your scooter and it is damaged, or if you drop paint all over your scooter?
• Fire Damage – are you covered if your scooter is damaged or destroyed by fire?
• Flood Damage – are you covered if your scooter is damaged or destroyed by flooding?
• Loss or damage caused by theft or attempted theft – what happens if someone steals your scooter either when it is parked at home, or while you are out?
• New for old replacement -  will you get a replacement with the same specification and value of the one you have insured?
• Public liability – if you have injured a member of the public, they may sue you for damages. Does your policy cover the cost of this? Some policies will cover you up to £2million for public liability.
• Get you home expenses – does your policy cover the cost of getting you home after an accident – remember you won’t be able to use your scooter if it is damaged.
• Excess - are you expected to pay the 1st part of any claim?
• No claims bonus - do you get a discount each year if you haven’t made a claim?
• World-wide cover – is your scooter covered for trips abroad?
• Temporary cover – this covers mobility equipment you have on loan while your scooter is being repaired or a new one delivered to you.
• Temporary hire cover – this covers equipment that you need to hire while your scooter is being repaired or a new one delivered to you.
• Storm Damage - does your policy cover any damage caused by storms?
• Personal Injury Benefit – what would be paid out if you are seriously injured or killed? Find out what injuries are covered.
• Personal effects cover – if any of your possessions are damaged or stolen in an accident or incident – are they covered?

Hopefully this list is helpful in understanding what your scooter insurance can cover, remember to always shop around to find the best deal for you.

Author: Jane