Mobility scooters and public transport: a guide
When it comes to getting about, mobility scooters can make your life much easier; they broaden the horizon, allowing you to venture further from your house.
But using public transport with mobility scooters can prove to be challenging, especially when you aren’t aware of the regulations.
While mobility scooters are allowed on public transport, there are a few rules and exceptions that you need to know before hopping on a bus or train. Stick with Millercare as we fill you in on all the important details so you can travel about with confidence.
To make each journey out of the house that much better, we offer a range of stylish and comfortable mobility scooters for every need.
Taking your mobility scooter on a bus
All modern bus models are built to accommodate wheelchair and mobility scooter users, with designated disabled seats, lower floor entry, and wider aisles for mobility aids.
While bus drivers aren’t legally required to let passengers on with a mobility scooter, operators who follow the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT) have a duty to make their service as accessible as possible.
With built-in ramps, getting onto the bus with a mobility scooter is both safe and efficient, making the process quick and smooth. However, like any vehicle, buses have certain weight and height limits, so it’s best to check with the bus provider before travelling with your scooter.
Most buses in the UK can accommodate Class 2 mobility scooters, whereas Class 3 mobility scooters aren’t permitted. It’s important to note that travel permits are required for taking your mobility scooter on a bus; these let the bus driver know that you’re scooter has passed the requirements for travelling. You can find out more about permits at firstbus.co.uk.
Guidelines for class 2 mobility scooters
- The scooter mustn’t exceed 1000 mm in length.
- The scooter must weigh less than 300 kg when combined with the user’s weight.
- The scooter must be lightweight and have a turning radius of no more than 1200 mm.
If the designated area for mobility scooters is occupied on the bus, you’ll have to wait for the next bus. Once you’ve received a travel permit for your scooter from one bus operator, this should be accepted by other bus operators. However, the permit can be denied if it’s being misused.
Taking your mobility scooter on a train
Travelling by train can be much more efficient than a bus, especially for mobility scooter users who want to limit their travel time and save on battery during their journey.
All UK trains have designated areas for disabled passengers and mobility scooter or wheelchair users, so you’ll have plenty of space to rest during the journey.
Most trains are designed to accommodate standard power chairs and mobility scooters. However, weight and height limits apply, and these vary depending on the operator. You can find out more about each operator on our blog for mobility scooter regulations on trains.
As a general rule, your mobility scooter must not exceed 300 kg, with user weight included, and be no more than 1200 mm long and 700 mm wide. Most trains allow scooters with lead-acid or sealed gel batteries, yet some services have restrictions on lithium-ion batteries (so check with the operator before travelling!).
If you require any additional assistance boarding and exiting the train, contact the operator when booking so these measures can be put in place in advance. Some services may require you to switch off your scooter or secure it during travel.
Taking your mobility scooter on a coach
The rules and regulations for travelling with a Class 2 mobility scooter on a coach are pretty much the same as for a bus.
However, as coaches are more compact, you may be required to store your vehicle in the luggage compartment. Although most should have designated areas for disabled travellers and standard-sized mobility aids.
As coaches are raised vehicles, you will require a ramp or lift to get onto the vehicle. If you’re unsure about the boarding process or the accessibility features they have in place, contact the company beforehand to ask for assistance and settle your concerns.
Tips for using public transport with a mobility scooter
When using public transport to get out and about, travelling with a mobility scooter means you’ll have to plan ahead.
- Always make sure that you leave the house with a full battery. You don’t want to get off the bus only to realise you can’t go any further!
- Know your rights! UK public transport operators must actively comply with equality regulations and accommodate disabled passengers, as long as it doesn’t detriment safety.
- Apply for a disabled person's rail card and bus pass so you can use public transport at a discounted price.
- Inspect your mobility scooter for any issues or loose parts before you set off so you don’t face any obstacles along the way.
- Always wait for the vehicle to stop before getting off, and park your mobility scooter in its designated space.
Travel Safe with Millercare
At Millercare, we aim to make every journey stress-free. That’s why we offer lightweight mobility scooters that are perfect for customers who use public transport regularly.
With a sleek and compact design, ergonomic seating, and easy control systems, our mobility scooters are ideal for everyday tasks. Plus, there’s plenty of legroom to stretch your legs and storage space to hold shopping and personal items.
Buy one of our compact mobility scooters today for a better future tomorrow.