Scooter users must be competent

Mobility scooters are a godsend for those with limited mobility, giving them the means to get out and about. However, there's renewed concern about the use of the scooters, and the danger they pose.Pressure is coming on the Government to put the brakes on a growing problem mobility scooters and "the grey racers" who rumble the streets on them.

Because scooter users are mostly elderly or disabled, there is a reluctance to speak out about the problem. It is somehow seen as disrespectful.

However, Transport Ministry figures show that since 2002 there have been four deaths and more than 60 serious accidents as a result of mobility scooter crashes.

Many in this region can relate stories of close encounters and near misses with scooters. Some drivers lack the skills needed to control their scooters, some drive too fast in areas where there are pedestrians, and some seem oblivious to the congestion they cause in supermarkets, shops or the library.

It is not a criticism of all mobility scooter users. Most are competent, but it has to be acknowledged that there is a problem. The Marlborough Road Safety Council has been proactive in promoting the safe use of mobility scooters, holding regular seminars and making available brochures on scooter safety and their upkeep. However, with a growing number of scooter users, it is time to assess whether more needs to be done.

The problem is highlighted in this region because of the number of users, mainly because of a high elderly population here, so it is a good place to start resolving it.

At present there are few rules about driving a mobility scooter. The driver does not need a licence or to pass a test on their ability to use the scooter. The only regulations relate to offences such as causing injury or using a scooter carelessly, which deal with the problem after it has happened rather than ensuring that drivers are firstly able to drive their scooters safely.

Land Transport New Zealand is reluctant to introduce more rules because of the mobility the scooters give their drivers. That means that a driver who fails their car driver's licence because of poor eyesight can still bowl along happily on a scooter, and will hopefully avoid any pedestrians or vehicles which may be in their way.

A good start would be to introduce a basic test which scooter users would have to pass before being let loose on the streets.

That would also be an opportunity to emphasis the need for drivers to operate their scooters safely and with regard to the pedestrians with whom they share the footpaths and shop space. The aim should be to prevent further inevitable accidents.

- The Marlborough Express