Refuelling
Refuelling at Petrol Stations
The most common way for unaccompanied disabled drivers to get help at a petrol station is by sounding their horn or by pressing their Servicecall transmitter. Unfortunately where there is only one assistant on duty help is very rarely offered and disabled drivers are unable to refuel their vehicle. The introduction of chip and pin has also made paying very difficult for drivers who cannot easily get out of their vehicle, as standard card terminals cannot be used on the forecourt.
The introduction of petrol stations that are either totally self-service or un-staffed at less busy times is also a worrying trend for those disabled drivers who depend on staff for assistance. Mobilise is working with UKPIA (UK Petroleum Industries Association) to try to find some solutions to these problems. Our objectives are as follows;
Disabled motorists must be able to receive appropriate assistance with refuelling and paying.
If there are changes to the way that fuel is supplied, such as changes in automation or staffing levels, these must not have a negative impact on disabled drivers.
Petrol stations should install Servicecall and train their staff to use the system properly.
Petrol stations must find an acceptable way of taking payment using credit cards, for example by installing ‘spark safe’ terminals or accepting a signature instead.
Mobilise is currently collecting information from disabled motorists in order to campaign more effectively on this issue. Please take a moment to fill in our refuelling survey. CLICK HERE