Mobility Scooter Safety in Wet Weather

Wet weather does not have to mean staying indoors, but it does change how a scooter behaves. Traction is lower, stopping distances grow and visibility drops — for you and for drivers.

The surfaces that catch people out

• Wet leaves, especially on block paving, paths and cycle routes.
• Painted road markings — give-way lines, crossings and the yellow zig-zags outside schools.
• Metal drain covers and inspection covers, which become genuinely slippery when wet.
• Block paving and smooth stone, particularly in town centres.
• Standing water, which hides potholes and raised kerb edges you would otherwise avoid.

Where you can, steer around these rather than over them. It usually adds a metre to your journey and removes most of the risk.

Before you set out

Check the forecast, but also check the machine: tyre pressures, brake function and a full charge if you are going any distance. Cold weather reduces the range a battery will give you, so plan for less than you would get in summer.

Wear something light-coloured or reflective, and if your scooter has lights, use them even in daylight — Hampshire lanes and residential streets can be gloomy by mid-afternoon in winter. A waterproof cover for the tiller and seat, and a phone in a dry pocket, are worth the small trouble.

While you are out

• Reduce speed before you turn, not during the turn.
• Leave more room in front of you. Braking on a wet surface takes longer.
• Take dropped kerbs and ramps straight on, at a slow, steady speed, rather than at an angle.
• Keep both hands on the tiller, and keep your phone in your pocket.
• In heavy rain, consider whether the trip can wait. No errand is worth a fall.

When you get home

Dry the machine rather than leaving it wet, particularly the battery compartment and the charging point. Charge it in a dry place, not in a damp outbuilding. Check that the brakes still feel normal before your next trip, and if anything feels different, stop using the scooter and get it looked at.

Knowing when not to go

If the rain is heavy, if the light is poor, or if you are tired or unwell, staying in is a perfectly sensible decision. Many of our customers arrange deliveries or ask a family member for the odd errand over winter rather than take risks.

If you would like us to check your tyres, brakes and battery before winter sets in, ring us on 01264 243124 and we will arrange a service.