The Active Mobility Advisory Panel (AMAP) submitted recommendations to the Government on 14 December 2023. These recommendations were to address the issue of the safe use of mobility scooters on public paths.
Update: As of 8 January 2024, the Government is still reviewing the recommendations.
Citizens are expressing heightened concerns about able-bodied individuals misusing personal mobility aids (PMAs), particularly mobility scooters. These include worries over dangerous riding, speeding and overly large PMAs.
To prevent the misuse of these devices, the 16-member advisory panel recommended that the Government consider these recommendations:
(A) Ride at a reduced speed limit.
The panel thus suggested reducing the speed limit of all motorised PMAs from 10 km/h to 6 km/h to reflect better the typical walking speed of path users between 4 km/h and 6 km/h.
(B) Adhere to consistent device dimensions restrictions for public paths and public transport.
LTA imposes dimension restrictions (70cm width, 120cm length, 150cm height, 300kg laden weight) for using PMAs on public transport.
C) Users with certified medical needs or walking difficulties can only use mobility scooters.
The report comes after focus groups raised concerns over the misuse of PMAs by those who appear able-bodied and the lack of regulations on the purchase and safe use of the devices.
Here is the list of rules and regulations that have been implemented by the LTA and how you can look out for the PMAs that are LTA Compliant:
1.1 Maximum motorised device speed of 10km/h
1.2 A mobility scooter must satisfy the following:
(a) Has 3 or more wheels and a footboard;
(b) Is steered by handlebars or delta tiller;
(c) Has only one seat (i.e. devices with multiple seats are not considered mobility scooters);
(d) Is designed to carry only one individual who is unable to walk or has difficulties walking; and
(e) Is propelled by a motor that forms part of the vehicle.
Owners of motorised devices (motorised PMDs, PABs and PMAs) should refrain from using non-original batteries, which may pose fire risks. See the accompanying infographic on safe charging practices for motorised devices (JPG, 302kB) and fire safety tips (JPG, 142kB).
What about travelling on public transport such as Bus or MRT (Mass Rapid Transit system)?
An Inclusive Public Transport System
Ensure your PMA does not exceed 120cm in length and 70cm in width. The wheelchair or PMA shall also not exceed 150cm in height (measured from the floor to the top of the PMA or the user’s head when seated on PMA, whichever is higher), and the total weight of the wheelchair or PMA together with the user shall not exceed 300kg.
Mobot is a team dedicated to providing the ultimate solution for your transportation woes. With a wide range of Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) like bicycles and electric bicycles and Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) like electric mobility scooters and wheelchairs, we cater to people from all walks of life, and all of our products are made LTA-Compliant so that our consumers can always purchase with an ease of mind.