In NSW, the definition of a motorised wheelchair includes a motorised version of a traditional wheelchair, as well as the mobility devices often used by elderly people to assist them when travelling short distances. (They are sometimes called scooters, gophers, and personal mobility devices) Only people who are unable to walk or have difficulty in walking can, by law, use a motorised wheelchair on a footpath, public road or road related area. People using motorised wheelchairs are defined as pedestrians under the NSW Road Rules.
The law
If you are going to use a motorised wheelchair on a public footpath or other road related area, you and your motorised wheelchair must comply with the NSW Road Rules:
The motorised wheelchair:
- Cannot travel faster than 10 kilometres per hour on level ground.
- Must not have an unladen mass greater than 110 kilograms.
The operator:
- Must not travel on the road unless it is impracticable to travel on the footpath or nature strip next to the road.
- Keep to as far to the side of the road as possible and face oncoming traffic if no footpath is available.
- Must not use the motorised wheelchair with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 or more.
Safe operation
Although there is no formal test needed to use a motorised wheelchair, there are some basic skills required to operate it safely. If you are concerned about your ability, your doctor or health care professional may be able to arrange as assessment.
To use a motorised wheelchair safely, you need to be able to:
- Operate controls and manoeuvre the wheelchair.
- Keep your balance and adjust your body position when travelling across uneven ground.
- Spot obstacles and avoid collisions.
- Judge speeds and distances.
- Make good judgements to protect your safety and others.
Safety advice
- Attach a safety flag to your chair so it’s high enough above your head to be visible to others.
- If possible, attach rear view mirrors on your chair for checking behind you.
- If you must travel at night, lights and reflectors should be used to aid visibility.
- Plan a route that allows you to use footpaths for your entire journey.
- Know where there are kerb ramps or driveways you can use for safe crossings.
- Avoid highways, major roads and areas used by high volumes of traffic or heavy vehicles.
The following organisations and local contacts can also help:
- Independent Living Centre NSW Phone: 1300 885 886
- Aged and Disability Services at your local council
- Occupational Therapy Department at your local hospital
- Aged care assessment team at your local health centre
- Access Committee associated with your local council