Motability car advice

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I am looking at possibly using the mobility part of my PIP to get a Motability car but need some advice regarding usage .

I live with my wife and adult daughter who can both drive so can be put on the insurance as named drivers and I can't drive at the moment due to surrendering my licence after treatment for a brain tumour as well as having treatment for other cancer . 

Are there any limitations regarding the use of the car such as my wife using it for commuting to work or doing errands such as shopping  ?

I would rather find out before I go any further as I wouldn't want to breach any of the conditions regarding usage of the vehicle .

Any advice or peoples experience regarding this would be most welcome .

Thanks in advance .

Peter from Wigan.

  • Hi Peter

    We’ve spoken before, and I hope things are currently going well for you.

    I didn’t take advantage of a Motability car myself, but can see why you’d want to know more before committing to getting a car under the scheme. Certainly you could have both your wife and daughter as named drivers-can I just ask is your daughter over 25? Being under 25 affects the type of car which could be driven, but over 25 is fine assuming they are both named on the insurance. 

    While you as the PIP award holder don’t need to be in the car for a journey, the journey must be carried out for the disabled person’s benefit, like doing errands or picking up prescriptions etc.

    I don’t drive, so when we looked at the scheme it seemed to us to be quite restrictive. For example my partner needs to drive to and from work every day and is alone. I don’t work as I’m retired, so I assumed this would not be permitted under the scheme, although them going to work is our main source of income so would benefit me in that way! 

    However, I think it would be sensible to contact Motability to confirm exactly what is allowed. Their number s 0300 456 4466. I’ve dealt with their customer service department several times as I use the mobility part of my PIP award to lease my power wheelchair. I find the staff very friendly and helpful. I’m sure your question must come up often when people are considering what is allowed, so they will be able to let you know what you can do. 

    I hope you’ll be successful with your application for the scheme.

    Sarah xx


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  • Hi Sarah , yes I remember you . I hope you are doing ok ?

    Thank you for your reply  . You are right about me not wanting to commit to the scheme and then find out that I am in breach of the regulations for use . I shall give the number a ring on Tuesday after the Bank holiday and get some advice frm them . As you say it is probably quite a common question . 

    Thanks again . I hope you are enjoying the lovely weather ?

    Take care and hopefully speak soon

    Peter xx