ATP Template with bundler

Disabled drivers


Answer

If you want to query the ticket you need to write to the address on the ticket stating the reasons why you think the ticket should be cancelled. If it concerns a disabled parking permit then you should include a photocopy of it.

You will then receive a reply from the central ticket office/local authority department. If the ticket has been cancelled you need take no further action; if it has not been cancelled then you will be given a period of time within which to pay the fine


Answer

The exemptions to wearing a seatbelt are:

  • A person who has a medical certificate, which states that on medical grounds it is not advisable for them to wear a seatbelt (including for pregnancy).
  • Drivers of vehicles performing manoeuvres which include reversing (three point turn). This includes a qualified driver supervising a learner driver performing manoeuvres including reversing.
  • Users of vehicles which have been adapted for the use of delivery of goods or mail to consumers or addressees, whilst engaged in making local rounds of deliveries (postman, milkman) as long as they do not drive for more than 50 metres.
  • A disabled person who is wearing a disabled person's belt.
  • A person driving a vehicle for fire and rescue or police purposes.
  • A licensed taxi whilst on duty.
  • A private hire driver whilst it is carrying passengers.
  • A person driving under a trade licence whilst driving the vehicle investigating or fixing a mechanical fault.
  • A person involved in a procession organised by or on behalf of the Crown.
  • A person conducting a test of competence as to whether wearing a seatbelt would endanger himself or any other person.
  • A person riding in a small or large bus which is being used to provide a local service in a built-up area (where the entire route consists of restricted roads); or
  • A person riding in a small or large bus which is constructed or adapted for the carriage of standing passengers and on which the operator permits standing.

Failure by any other person, who does not fit within these exemptions, will be liable for a fine.


Answer

There are exemptions to road tax for disabled drivers and for those cars, which were constructed before 1st January 1973. There are other exemptions that have not been listed here, as they are not particularly relevant. The DVLA website will have more information; see related website for link.

There is also an exemption for cars which are on their way to a pre-arranged appointment at an MOT testing station or on the way back from one (also includes an exemption for a MOT certificate in these circumstances).


Answer

Unless you have a disabled parking permit (see related question for full details of disabled parking scheme) you are not permitted to park on double yellow lines at any time, the restrictions apply 24 hrs a day, 365 days a year.

You could face a fine if you park illegally or you could even have your car towed away.


Answer

There are restrictions on each specific sign that will identify the times when you cannot park there, generally 0800hrs -1800hrs but check the sign prior to parking.

You could face a fine if you park illegally or you could even have your car towed away


Answer

There are many rules regarding parking with blue badges and this is only to be used as a guide, not a definitive list.

YOU CAN PARK

• Parking free of charge and without time limit at parking meters on-street and "pay and display" on-street parking. In some instances exemptions from time limits imposed on other users;
Scotland - Parking on single or double yellow lines without any time limit, providing that no obstruction is caused;
England and Wales - Parking on single or double yellow lines for up to 3 hours, providing that no obstruction is caused;
• Parking in greenways out-with times of operation;
• You should make every attempt to park in marked disabled bays, on-street parking bays or where there are no restrictions, with parking on single or double yellow line only utilised as a last resort.

PARKING RESTRICTIONS

• In Scotland and Northern Ireland, there is no time restriction on parking for badge holders, unless local restrictions apply;
• In England and Wales you will need a parking clock which must be displayed every time you park on yellow lines or in other places where there is a time restriction. The clock should be set to show the time of arrival;
• Badge holders living in Scotland who intend to visit England or Wales should apply to their council for the loan of a parking clock which can be used for the duration of their stay.

PLACES WHERE YOU CANNOT PARK

• Places where a ban on loading is in force, normally indicated by one or two yellow marks on the kerb. Roadside signs display times of operation for loading bays; some allow specific time limits for badge holders;
• Parking places reserved for specific users such as resident's bays. Always check whether badge holders are exempt from these restrictions;
• Pedestrian crossings (including zebra, pelican, toucan and puffin crossings), including areas marked with zigzag lines;
• Clearways (no stopping);
• A bus stop during hours of operation;
• Double or single red lines during their hours of operation;
• An urban clearway within its hours of operation. You may pick up or drop off passengers. All parking is forbidden;
• School "KEEP CLEAR" markings during the hours shown on the yellow no-stopping plate;
• Bus, tram or cycle lanes or cycle tracks. Badge holders are not entitled to drive in bus lanes during their hours of operation;
• Where there are double white lines in the centre of the road (even if one of the lines is broken);
• Suspended meter bays or when use of the meter is not allowed;
• Where temporary parking restrictions are in force along a length of road, e.g. as indicated by no-waiting cones.

When parking using a blue badge, it is important to park carefully and thoughtfully, giving thought to other road users. For example, when parking on single or double yellow lines, do not park your vehicle where it will cause an obstruction or hold up traffic.

Please note that the blue badge scheme is not in force in Central London, including; the City of London, the City of Westminster, the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and that part of the London Borough of Camden bounded by and including Euston Road, Upper Woburn Place, Tavistock Square, Woburn Place, Russell Square, Southampton Road, Theobalds Road and Clerkenwell Road. They do offer some concessions for disabled drivers and these usually consist of parking spaces reserved for blue badge holders.

For full details on the blue badge scheme, please see the Related Information for the website.


Answer

It is now the responsibility of the council to enforce parking issues in most council areas throughout Scotland. It is always best to report any parking matters to your local parking warden in the first instance.


Answer

Terminology
Whilst the legislation makes reference to the term invalid carriage, increasingly such vehicles are being referred to as mobility scooters or mobility vehicles.

How many types of mobility vehicle are there?
There are three types of mobility vehicle:

Class 1 (manual wheelchairs) – self/attendant propelled and not electrically powered;
Class 2 (powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters) – intended for footpath or pavement use only with a maximum speed limit of 4 mph;
Class 3 (powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters) – for use on the road, with a maximum speed limit of 8 mph but with the facility to travel at 4 mph on a footpath or pavement.

Other electrically powered vehicles such as golf buggies may look similar to mobility vehicles but they are not 'invalid carriages' within the meaning of the law and so may not be used on the public highway, pavement etc.

Who can use a mobility vehicle?
Class 2 and 3 vehicles may only be used by a disabled person – defined as a person with an injury, physical disability or medical condition that means they are unable to walk or have difficulty in walking. Exemptions exist for people who are demonstrating them, training others to use them or taking them for maintenance/repair. Note that you have to be 14 or over to use a class 3 mobility vehicle.

Where can mobility vehicles be used?
All vehicles (class 1, 2 and 3) can be used on footpaths, pavements, bridleways , and in pedestrian areas at a maximum speed of 4 mph. Class 1 and 2 vehicles can be used on the road if a pavement is not available or to cross the road.

Class 3 vehicles can be used on most roads at a maximum speed of 8 mph. Class 3 vehicles cannot be used on motorways, in bus lanes when in operation or 'cycle only' cycle lanes. They should not be used on dual carriageways with a speed limit over 50 mph but if they are they must display an amber flashing light so they can be seen. Indeed, it is advisable to display an amber flashing light on all dual carriageways.

As can be seen from the above, class 3 mobility vehicles are restricted to 4 mph on the pavement and 8 mph on the road. As a result of this they must by law be equipped with a speed indicator.

Does a mobility vehicle have to be registered?
Class 3 mobility vehicles, new or used, must be registered with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). To register you must complete form V55/4 for new vehicles or V55/5 for used vehicles – the forms are available from the Post Office or via the DVLA online form order service at:

http://www.dft.gov.uk/dvla/onlineservices /order_forms.aspx?ext=gov

Send the completed form to DVLA Swansea, SA99 1BE. Note:

a. You can't license your class 3 invalid carriage online or at Post Offices.
b. Include evidence of the vehicle's age (if available) and documents showing the keeper's name and address.

If you need further information about this you can contact the DVLA Contact Centre on 0300 790 6802.

Do I need insurance?
Whilst it is not a legal requirement to have insurance for a mobility vehicle, it is strongly advised that people take out insurance to cover personal safety, other people's safety and the value of the vehicle. In some cases your household insurance may provide cover but you would need to check this with your insurance provider.

Can I carry passengers?
Mobility vehicles designed to carry two people cannot be used on the pavement or road because they don't meet the definition of an invalid carriage in law. With regard to children, the law does not explicitly state that an adult carrying an infant in a sling/pouch is unlawful. However, it is not permitted to carry anyone else on a mobility vehicle e.g. children standing on the vehicle etc.

Is there an eyesight test?
There are no legal eyesight requirements in relation to using a mobility vehicle but it is important to have good eyesight and be able to judge distances, recognise hazards etc. If the user of a mobility vehicle were involved in an accident and it was found that the driver had poor eyesight, it could be deemed to be a contributory factor and could make the user liable to a claim. It is suggested that users should have a minimum visual acuity of 6/24 – you can check this with your optician.

What about medication and health?
If you take medication that makes you feel drowsy you should consider whether it is safe to use a mobility vehicle and consult your doctor. You should not use a mobility vehicle if you have consumed alcohol.

Travelling on public transport
All three classes of mobility vehicle may be taken on buses/trains providing the bus/train is constructed to carry a 'reference wheelchair' and your wheelchair fits those dimensions – buses are restricted to one wheelchair space. It is always advisable to contact rail operators etc. beforehand to ensure suitable facilities are available.

What advice can you offer in relation to travelling on the road?
The Highway Code now has a section in relation to powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters – see link in related information.

You should also ensure that you are familiar with the traffic signs and road markings etc. contained in the Highway Code – see link in related information.

Before going out on your mobility vehicle always check to make sure it is fully charged. You should also always carry a fully charged mobile phone with you when you go out (that you know how to use), so that you can contact someone if you need to.

Try to plan your route to avoid busy roads and rush hour traffic and aim to travel for as much as possible on the pavement (remember a class three vehicle is restricted to 4 mph when on the pavement). You must be vigilant when travelling on the pavement because pedestrians may not hear you coming. Take particular care where young children are concerned as they can dart about and change direction very quickly.

Take care not to unbalance your mobility vehicle with shopping and make sure you follow the manufacturer's guidance so that you don't overload it. Never hang shopping bags on the handlebars etc. Take care when negotiating sharp corners or roads with an adverse camber/gradient – make sure you slow down in plenty of time. If your mobility vehicle is fitted with a lap belt always use it even if you're only going on a short journey.

How about travelling at night?
Both class 2 and 3 mobility vehicles must display lights when used at night - you may also wish to wear a fluorescent jacket to make you more conspicuous.

What if I break down?
Check with the dealer that you bought the vehicle from to see if they have any schemes available that cover you if your mobility vehicle breaks down. You should always carry a fully charged mobile phone with you when you go out so that you are able to contact someone if you need to.

Are there any training courses?
Some local authorities do provide courses so you will need to check with your local council. Additionally, the following address may be of use:

National Federation of Shopmobility

BHTA Wellingborough Branch
2-4 Meadow Close
Ise Valley Industrial Estate
Wellingborough
NN8 4BH
Tel: 01933 229644
Email: Shopmobility@bhta.com Web: www.nfsuk .org

Where can I find out more information?

Department for Transport
Sustainable Travel and Equalities
Zone 2/15
Great Minster House
33 Horseferry Road
London, SW1P 4DR.
Tel: 020 7944 2046

For general information about mobility vehicles, contact
Disabled Motoring UK
Ashwellthorpe
Norwich
NR16 1EX.
Tel 01508 489449
Email: info@disabledmotoring .org
www.disabledmotoring .org


Answer

Waiting restrictions indicated by yellow lines apply to the carriageway, the pavement and the verge. You can stop to load or unload (unless there are no loading restrictions) or while passengers board or alight.

Double yellow lines mean no waiting at any time unless there are signs that specifically indicate seasonal restrictions. The times at which the restrictions apply for single yellow lines are shown on nearby plates or on entry signs to controlled parking zones. If no days are shown on the signs, the restrictions are in force every day including Sundays and Bank Holidays.