The Difference Between Class 2 and 3 Mobility Scooters
If you are new to the world of mobility scooters/powerchairs, you will hear the terms ‘Class 2’ and ‘Class 3’ used a lot, and we are sure you will be wondering which one is the right type for you. In this blog post we hope to clear up your questions about the different classes of mobility scooter/powerchair so you know which type is right for you!
What are mobility scooter/powerchair classes?
To put it simply, the mobility scooter/powerchair class system is a set of regulations drawn up by the government to legislate the use of mobility scooters/powerchairs in Britain. This stemmed from the ‘Invalid Carriages on Highways Regulations’ Act of 1988.
Once the act was passed it left us with three classes of ‘invalid carriage’, Class 1 being manual wheelchairs and the other two classes of mobility scooters/powerchairs.
Class 2 mobility scooters/powerchairs
Class 2 mobility scooters/powerchairs are defined as mechanically propelled mobility vehicles with a maximum speed of 4mph. Class 2 scooters/powerchairs tend to be more lightweight and compact, being they are easier to transport in a vehicle and can be driven indoors with ease.
Class 2 scooters/powerchairs are restricted to use on pavements and walkways, making them the ideal choice for those wishing to use them for shopping trips and travelling in urban areas.
Class 3 mobility scooters/powerchairs
Class 3 mobility scooters/powerchairs are defined as light transportation vehicles that are legal for road use, which is why they are often referred to as ‘road class scooters/powerchairs’. Rules and regulations are much stricter for class 3 scooters/powerchairs, and you must register your scooter/powerchair with the DVLA to drive it legally on the road- much like a vehicle!
However, unlike a vehicle you don’t need a driver’s license to operate one- although a basic knowledge of the highway code for mobility scooters/powerchairs will be helpful. Both class 2 and 3 scooters/powerchairs don’t need to pay vehicle tax.
With class 3 scooters/powerchairs you can drive up to 8mph on roads but they are not particularly shop friendly as they can be bulkier than class 2 scooters/powerchairs. They are the perfect choice for outdoor excursions and days out in the countryside.
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