Those who have leased a car through the Motability Scheme could be in danger oflosing their vehicleif they don't tread carefully. Motorists who have availed themselves of the scheme should be mindful that the vehicle comes with a host of stringent terms and conditions which, if not adhered to, can result in serious repercussions.

This is particularly crucial to note as a new'Special Investigations Unit'is reportedly being established by the operators of the Motability Scheme to catch people misusing their vehicles. Motability emphasised that the unit is being created to 'combat the issue of misuse'.

This is despite Motability acknowledging that the 'vast majority' of customers are not misusing their vehicles, even with an uptick in customers. According to scheme operators, around 80 people will be assigned to the unit to detect misuse.

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Guidance from the Motability Scheme website underscores 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 implies that misuse may not just result in a car being confiscated, but also a hefty bill that the claimant will have to foot themselves. 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

When acquiring a new car through the Motability Scheme, you, your nominated drivers, and the dealer from whom you're purchasing the car must sign a Statement of Responsibilities. This document serves to confirm that you understand the terms and conditions associated with using the car.

These terms and conditions stipulate:

• 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.