Staying safe and mobile: Using a mobility scooter in winter

For around 500,000 people in the UK, mobility scooters are a lifeline, helping them stay independent year-round, rain or shine. But winter can present unique challenges, from icy paths to dwindling battery ranges. If parking up your scooter until the weather improves isn’t an option, here’s how to keep moving safely during these colder months.

Tyres

Winter tyres are an option for mobility scooters, but most users stick with the standard road tyres that handle most conditions well. To get the best performance, check the manufacturer's guidelines and ensure your tyres are properly inflated. Correct air pressure improves handling, helps your scooter cut through slush, and even extends your range.

Should you suffer a flat, ETA mobility scooter insurance includes a 24/7 recovery service plus up to £100 for puncture repairs, giving you peace of mind when you’re out and about.

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Batteries

Ever noticed your scooter’s range drop in winter? It’s because batteries perform worse in the cold. Of the types commonly used in mobility scooters – lithium-ion, conventional lead-acid, AGM (advanced lead-acid), and GEL – lithium-ion performs the best in low temperatures but comes at a higher cost.

Whatever type of battery you use, keep it topped up and replace it as soon as it starts becoming unreliable. A little extra care in winter can help you avoid being stranded when you need your scooter the most.

Breakdown cover

A breakdown is inconvenient at any time, but in winter, it can be downright dangerous. That’s why it pays to have mobility scooter breakdown cover. While standalone breakdown policies are available, you’ll often find better value when it’s included in a full insurance package.

For example, here at the ETA we offer a comprehensive policy for just £65 per year, covering scooters or powered wheelchairs worth up to £3,500. The policy includes:

• Theft and damage cover

• Personal accident cover up to £20,000

• Personal liability up to £2 million

• Breakdown cover for both you and your mobility scooter

• Puncture cover up to £100

• Personal effects up to £250

• Hospital benefit up to £250

• Personal assault/mugging cover up to £250

Mobility scooter insurance from the ETA is great value at £65 per year for a scooter or powered wheelchair worth up to £3,500. And you can buy the same policy to cover two people at the same address for a total price of only £90 per year - a 30 per cent saving.

Find out more about ETA mobility scooter insurance here or if you prefer to talk to one of our friendly advisers, call 0333 000 1234.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover  and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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