Braking bad? How electromagnetic brakes keep mobility scooter users safe

When we talk about mobility scooters, we often focus on freedom — the joy of getting from A to B without relying on others, the fresh air, the independence. But behind the scenes, silently working to keep you safe, are the brakes. Not the squeaky kind you might remember from your push bike, but something altogether cleverer: Electromagnetic brakes.

These clever devices stop it smartly, silently, and instantly. They’re the kind of brakes that don’t wait to be told twice, which, when it comes to safely navigating a busy pavement or an unexpected slope, can make all the difference.

Unlike mechanical brakes if you let go of everything, or even if your battery gives up the ghost mid-journey, these brakes automatically engage.

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It’s easy to take your brakes for granted - until you need them. Electromagnetic brakes don’t just react quickly; they’re built with fewer moving parts, which means less wear and tear and more reliability. That’s especially important if your scooter is your daily lifeline to the shops, the café, or just a breath of air in the park.

Going downhill? Electromagnetic brakes adjust to keep you steady. Need to stop quickly in the rain? They’ve got you covered — though a slower pace in wet weather is always wise. These systems also work in harmony with your speed controls, adapting braking power depending on how fast you’re going.

Like anything mechanical, a bit of TLC goes a long way. If your scooter starts making strange noises, or takes longer than usual to stop, it might be time for a check-up. If you're unsure, a quick test in a safe, flat area before each ride helps make sure everything’s in working order.

Peace of mind with ETA mobility scooter insurance

While electromagnetic brakes are a fantastic safeguard, sometimes things go wrong - and that’s where ETA’s mobility scooter insurance comes in. From 24/7 breakdown recovery and puncture cover to theft, damage and even key cover, ETA has your journey covered.

There’s no jargon, no fuss - just simple, effective protection that’s as reliable as your brakes. It’s peace of mind, neatly packaged for £65 a year (based on a scooter worth £3,500 or less).

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ETA offers a fully-comprehensive policy with no hidden costs; one upfront price covers you on any mobility scooter, and a host of benefits are included as standard:

       
• Theft and Damage*
       
• Personal Accident up to £20,000
       
• Personal liability up to £2m
       
• Breakdown Cover for you and your mobility scooter (including home rescue)
       
• Replacement scooter hire up to £250
       
• Hospital Benefit up to £250 (no daily limit)
       
• New for old - however old your scooter
       
• Personal Effects up to £250
       
• Puncture cover up to £100

* You can insure your scooter for £3,500, £5,000. £7,500 or even £10,000. Mobility scooter insurance from the ETA is great value at £65 per year for a scooter or powered wheelchair worth up to £3,500. And you can buy the same policy to cover two people at the same address for a total price of only £90 per year - a 30 per cent saving.

Find out more about ETA mobility scooter insurance here or if you prefer to talk to one of our friendly advisers, call 0333 000 1234.

The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover  and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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