Scootsafe Day Returns to Tackle Mobility Scooter Safety in Lowestoft
Lowestoft Shopmobility is calling on the community to support its annual Scootsafe Day, taking place on Friday 11 July 2025 in the town centre. The event will run from 9.30am to 4.00pm, aiming to raise awareness about mobility scooter safety and responsible use in busy pedestrian areas.
With an increasing number of concerns about how scooters are being used in the town, the team at Shopmobility is keen to remind the public of the rules, responsibilities, and risks involved. From speeding through shopping areas to uninsured use, misuse of mobility scooters is becoming a serious issue — and one that could lead to life-changing accidents if left unaddressed.
The main concern is speed. Scooters designed to travel at 8mph for road use should be limited to 4mph when in pedestrian zones. Shopmobility ensures all of its scooters and powerchairs are capped at this safer speed. However, many privately owned scooters exceed this limit in town, creating a hazard for vulnerable pedestrians, particularly children.
Another issue is misuse. According to government guidance, mobility scooters are intended for those with a genuine medical need — such as injury, physical disability, or a medical condition that affects mobility. Despite this, it’s become increasingly common for scooters to be sold without checks, meaning many users may not meet the criteria. Unfortunately, when problems occur, it is often disabled users who unfairly receive the blame.
The event is also a chance to highlight the importance of having insurance, not riding under the influence, and understanding the rules about where scooters can and can’t go. From avoiding cycle lanes to never carrying passengers or pets, there are clear guidelines in place to help keep everyone safe.
Scootsafe Day will feature information stands, flyers, and friendly volunteers ready to offer advice and answer questions. It is being run with the support of the Waveney Disability Forum, East Suffolk Communities Team, Disability Advice North East Suffolk, the Police, PCSO team, Lowestoft Town Council, Lowestoft Vision, and Freedom Mobility.
Lowestoft Shopmobility has organised several of these days in the past, but say the current situation has made it clear another is urgently needed.
Everyone is welcome to stop by, learn more, and show their support. By working together, the community can help ensure mobility scooters remain a safe and helpful tool, not a danger.
For more information, visit the Shopmobility stand in the town centre on Friday 11 July.