The driver of a mobility scooter that knocked over and injured a woman who later died has escaped prosecution.

The fatal accident happened on the Isle of Wight after the victim had crossed a road. As she stepped onto the pavement she was hit by the scooter and badly injured. She died two days later.

At the inquest into her death the coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death, and expressed concern at the lack of 'control or legislation' governing these scooters.

He felt that the scooter was being driven too fast along the pavement, with little warning that it was proceeding in this way. 

In a second incident, the driver of a mobility scooter in Burnley was involved in an accident and later died. 

Despite some mobility scooters being allowed to be driven on the road, they're not covered under the Road Traffic Act, as they're not considered motor vehicles. Whilst insurance for these vehicles is advised, it's not compulsory. 

They should be registered, but many aren't because owners simply don't realise they should be. They should also carry tax discs, although there's no amount payable.

Class 2 type scooters, which can travel up to 4mph, should only be used on the pavement or on roads when crossing; while class 3 type scooters, capable of speeds up to 8 mph, should only be used on roads, although not motorways. They are allowed on dual-carriageways, though this isn't recommended. 

The Highway Code sections 36 to 46 cover the use of mobility scooters, highlighting that scooters used on roads at night must have lights, and those travelling on dual-carriageways should have a flashing beacon. 

Access Legal from Shoosmiths associate Simon Richards said: "Mobility scooters help many people get around, but they do cause safety issues.

"I recently had a call from someone riding along the road on a motorbike when a mobility scooter pulled out of a side road and caused him to swerve and lose control of his bike. The scooter wasn't insured. The safety of other road users is paramount, and they shouldn't suffer financially as a result of mobility scooters being misused."

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