Jeongeup-si Expands Coverage for 'Electric Assistive Device Insurance' Starting This Year

Published 06 Jan.2022 15:18(KST)

[Jeongeup=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Jaegil] Jeongeup City, Jeonbuk Province, is expanding the eligibility for the ‘Electric Mobility Device Insurance’ starting this year to resolve various side effects caused by accidents and to alleviate the economic burden on the elderly and disabled.

According to the city on the 6th, the Electric Mobility Device Insurance for the disabled is a system where the city directly contracts with an insurance company and bears the cost to pay insurance benefits through the insurer to disabled and elderly individuals who suffer various accidents.

Until now, the city supported insurance enrollment for medical aid recipients and low-income disabled groups, but starting this year, the eligibility has been expanded so that all disabled and elderly residents registered in Jeongeup can benefit.

The insurance premiums are paid in bulk by the city. Those who qualify for the insurance become insured persons and receive insurance benefits without any separate enrollment procedures.

The coverage includes liability for third-party damages (property and personal injury) occurring during operation, with a maximum coverage of 20 million KRW (with a deductible of 200,000 KRW).

When a claim event occurs, the insured can receive insurance benefits by submitting relevant supporting documents directly to the insurance company.

Electric wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility aids used by disabled or elderly individuals with limited mobility are classified as ‘pedestrians’ rather than ‘motor vehicles’ under the Road Traffic Act.

Electric wheelchairs and scooters must be operated on sidewalks, but due to inconvenient usage environments, there have been cases of traffic accidents occurring when users move along the roadside.

The city expects that through this insurance enrollment, economic support will be possible for disabled and elderly individuals who have felt economic burdens due to the lack of appropriate compensation systems in case of accidents.

A city official said, “We are pleased to contribute to improving welfare for the elderly and disabled by ensuring their mobility rights and alleviating economic burdens. We will continue to strive to enhance citizens’ welfare.”