Q&A: What you need to know before buying a mobility scooter
Published 6:00 pm Sunday, April 12, 2026
From safety tips to choosing the right model, Scooter City shares expert answers
Imagine a life where every outing and every moment didn’t feel like a challenge. Figuring out which mobility scooter to choose can be overwhelming.
We asked the experts at Scooter City Medical Equipment & Supplies to answer your most pressing questions about scooters, safety tips and reclaiming your independence.
Q: What are the most important safety rules to follow?
A: Safe operation starts with a few key habits:
Ride only where pedestrians are allowed
Avoid sudden turns, especially at higher speeds
Proceed carefully on ramps or hills
Approach curbs at a right angle and low speed
Only mount or dismount when the brake is engaged
Never carry more than one person
Avoid using a scooter if you’ve been drinking alcohol or taking any medication that may affect your judgment
Q: How can I stay safe around other people?
A: Be courteous and aware of others. Travel at the same speed as pedestrian traffic, use your bell or horn when passing, and be cautious near driveways and busy walkways. Mobility scooters are heavy and can cause injury in a collision.
Q: What’s the difference between three-wheel and four-wheel scooters?
A: Both are stable when used correctly, but three-wheel models can tip more easily, especially on steep slopes or during sharp turns. Four-wheel scooters provide a broader, more stable base, ideal for outdoor or uneven terrain.
Q: Do I need a license to drive a scooter?
A: No. Mobility scooters are classified as medical equipment, so you can ride them on sidewalks, inside stores, or on roads when a sidewalk isn’t available.
Scooter City has served the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and beyond since 1999. They offer a wide selection of new and pre-owned scooters, power wheelchairs, mobility equipment, rentals and repair services to meet different lifestyles and budgets.
“We also offer in-home trials, bringing the most relevant products directly to your home so you can test scooters in your own driveway or hallways,” says Rehab and Mobility Service Consultant Roy Boutilier. “As we love to say, we bring the showroom to you.”
Understanding that a mobility device is a significant investment, Scooter City partners with Affirm to provide flexible financing options.
For more information, visit scootercity.ca to explore their full product lineup, pricing and online shopping. You can also call toll-free at 1-877-508-3322 for questions, rentals, repairs, or to book an appointment.