Motability drivers could be at risk of losing their car over six simple mistakes
People who have leased a car through the Motability Scheme could be at risk of losing their car if they don’t take care. Motorists who have benefited from the scheme should be aware that the vehicle comes with a range of strict terms and conditions which, if not followed, can lead to severe consequences.
This is especially important to be aware of as a new ‘Special Investigations Unit’ is reportedly being set up by the operators of the Motability Scheme to catch people misusing their vehicles. Motability highlighted that the unit is being set up to ‘combat the issue of misuse’.
This is despite the fact that Motability admits that the ‘vast majority’ of customers are not misusing their vehicles, even with an increase in customers. According to operators from the scheme, around 80 people will be assigned to the unit to identify misuse.
What Motability classifies as misuse
Guidance from the Motability Scheme website highlights that it takes ‘misuse of your car very seriously’. It adds: “If we find you’re misusing your car, we might terminate your lease, stop you from getting another Scheme vehicle, and send you the bill for any repairs or estimated loss in its sale value.”
This means that misuse may not just end in a car being taken away, but also a substantial bill that the claimant will have to pay out of their own pocket. Examples of Motability misuse can include:
- You or someone else driving without insurance or while you’re banned
- Not taking good care of it
- Not using it for the disabled person’s benefit
- Using it in a criminal act
- Using it for business reasons we have not agreed with you, like as a taxi or for deliveries
- Lending, sub-leasing or selling it
Responsibilities of leasing a Motability car
When you purchase a new car through the Motability Scheme, you, your nominated drivers, and the dealer selling you the car need to sign a Statement of Responsibilities. This form is used to confirm that you are aware of the terms and conditions associatied with using the car.
These terms and conditions include:
- The disabled person uses the car, or it’s used for their benefit
- Only drivers on your Certificate of Motor Insurance drive the car
- You tell Motability about any changes that might affect your lease
- You only have one driver under the age of 21
Full details of the responsibilities associated with using a Motability vehicle can be found here.
