Scooter users are forced to take a driving test under new plans
Mobility scooter users will be required to take a test to ensure they are safe drivers under plans revealed after a coroner warned of the dangers of unlicensed drivers.
More than 250,000 of the electric vehicles are in use in Britain, but an inquest into the death of a 92-year-old woman who was hit by a driver found there were no restrictions on who can drive them.
Natalie Young died after a scooter driver crashed into her at a Morrisons supermarket checkout and then fled the scene. The driver was never caught.
After hearing her case, Somerset coroner Samantha Marsh wrote a letter to Transport Secretary Mark Harper calling for action.
Mobility scooter users will be required to take a test to ensure they are safe drivers under plans revealed after a coroner warned of the dangers of unlicensed drivers. (File image)
More than 250,000 of the electric vehicles are in operation in Britain, but an inquest into the death of a 92-year-old woman hit by a driver found there were no restrictions on who can drive them
In response, Mr Harper announced his support for a nationwide assessment and education program, adding: ‘The program will help retail and rental businesses assess a customer’s safe driving skills, along with providing best practice information .
‘There will be short tests to assess competence and provide extra support where necessary.’
The scheme is expected to start in the summer of 2024.
