Misusing Mobility Aids: Striking a Balance Between Safety and Accessibility

The Growing Concern Over PMA Misuse The Active Mobility Advisory Panel has observed a concerning trend: able-bodied individuals using mobility scooters inappropriately, often to bypass regulations governing other transport modes. While PMAs like manual wheelchairs and motorised scooters are designed to empower seniors and disabled individuals, their misuse poses significant risks—not just to the misusers themselves but also to the vulnerable populations they are meant to assist. Between January and June 2024, there were nine off-road PMA accidents, a sharp increase from the 16 recorded for the entirety of 2023. These figures underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement and regulations to protect legitimate users from reckless behavior. The Role of Regulations In response to growing concerns, the Ministry of Transport has introduced new regulations set to take effect in 2025. These rules include requiring medical certification for mobility scooter users and lowering the maximum speed limit from 10 km/h to 6 km/h. While these measures aim to enhance safety, they also strive to make the certification process more user-friendly for those who genuinely need mobility aids. The alignment of size restrictions for PMAs used on public paths with existing public transport limits also aims to create a safer environment. However, while these regulations are a step in the right direction, their effectiveness largely depends on robust enforcement mechanisms. Enhancing Enforcement and Public Education To tackle the misuse of PMAs, authorities must consider increasing the frequency and visibility of enforcement measures. Regular patrols and speed traps in high-traffic areas could deter reckless behavior, while closed-circuit cameras equipped with video analytics could help identify violators. Moreover, public education plays a vital role in raising awareness about the responsible use of PMAs. Many users may not realize the implications of their actions, especially able-bodied delivery riders who could be guided toward more appropriate transport methods, such as bicycles.

Navigating Indoor Spaces The challenges of PMA use extend beyond public roads into indoor spaces, where crowded environments can lead to accidents, even at lower speeds. Banning PMAs outright in shopping centres would exclude seniors and disabled individuals from vital social and economic hubs. Instead, innovative solutions like designated lanes, low-speed zones, and built-in speed limiters could help facilitate safer coexistence between PMA users and pedestrians. The Need for Liability Insurance Given the potential hazards posed by heavy mobility scooters, mandating liability insurance could ensure victims of PMA-related accidents receive compensation for medical treatment and damages. This requirement could also encourage responsible riding behavior among users, as the risk of increased premiums for unsafe conduct would serve as a deterrent to recklessness. However, policymakers must be mindful of the financial burden this places on lower-income PMA users. Providing subsidies or allowing payments through MediSave could help alleviate this issue, ensuring that the most vulnerable individuals are not further disadvantaged.