Disabled people: Brand New Car Every Three Years! The biggest misconception is that disabled people get a brand-new car every three years for free. This is not true! What happens is that disabled people in receipt of either DLA or PIP sacrifice the higher-rate mobility component of their benefit to enable them to lease a car, Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle, scooter, or powered wheelchair from the Motability Scheme. Let me explain.
Motability Scheme
In a nutshell, anyone in receipt of the higher-rate mobility allowance (such as the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment or the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance) can use their mobility allowance to lease a car, scooter, powered wheelchair, or Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle from Motability. The lease normally lasts three years, five if you have a WAV (Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle).
Motability’s standard lease covers insurance for up to three named drivers (this doesn’t have to be you), servicing, maintenance, breakdown cover and tyre and windscreen repair and replacement. (Conditions Apply). All you need to do is add fuel and go.
Misconception
I’ve had it said to me many times that it must be so good to get a brand-new car every couple of years for free! Yeah, Yes, it would be great if it were true. The look on those people’s faces when I explain that’s not the case and I actually pay for my car on a monthly basis is a cross between shock and disbelief.
I give up the higher rate of my mobility component so I may have a car to allow me my independence, rather than having to depend on other people to get my medication, shopping etc. or pay out for expensive taxi fares to make hospital appointments.
I became a full-time wheelchair user many years ago. Not being able to put my own electric wheelchair in our car and drive off somewhere means I can no longer go out on my own. Therefore, I am now in the process of applying for WAV.
Further Information
For a full breakdown of who is eligible, how to apply and more help, check out Motability’s website.
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