Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are an investment that is costly. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare typically cover the cost of a mobility scooter if it's medically necessary.
To ensure that they purchase the right model, individuals with travel-limiting disabilities should know about scooters and the alternatives available to them. To start with, buyers should understand their individual needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the best mobility scooter, there are many things to consider. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. A wrong choice of mobility could result in issues such as a poor fit, a low battery life or even safety issues.
What will your parent use the scooter for? Are they planning to use it to complete around or shop? If yes then a light mobility scooter with good battery life is the best choice. If they intend to travel over bumpy or uneven terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best option.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical health could change in the near future, and you'll need to consider whether they'll still be able to drive their mobility scooter within a few months or years. If not, then they may need to think about upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent solution such as a power chair.
Before making a final decision before making a final decision, you should encourage your parent to try out a variety of mobility scooters. They can determine how comfortable the seat feels and see if they can reach the handle. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure they're comfortable and the scooter fits them comfortably.
Ask your local dealer about used scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies to see whether they have any second-hand scooters for sale. If you do buy an used scooter, be sure to review the warranty and other specifics to ensure that you get what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seats in the hope of being able to carry family members or friends who would like to join them on their journeys. There could be privacy issues if those who will be joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be bumping into each other, causing problems with personal space. If you're concerned about these concerns, it's recommended that you opt for a scooter with an additional seat behind, instead of one which has an front and rear seat.
A scooter with two seats allows you to not only enjoy the company of a family member or friend but also cut costs by not needing to purchase two mobility vehicles. You can also reduce wear and wear and tear, as well as electric by using just one scooter that you can operate, and you can even share the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of seating options available when shopping for a 2-seat mobility scooter. Certain models have the driver's seat at the front and the passenger seat behind. Some models include both seats in the rear. Most mid-range and premium scooters have this arrangement, however certain models might only have an rear or front seat.
You can also buy one with a power-operated lifting system. This lets you effortlessly get the scooter in and out of your vehicle. You can cut down on time and effort by purchasing the scooter with a powered lift. All you have to do is put the scooter on the lift's platform and then turn on the switch. Then you can drive away and when you're ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important part of the vehicle, and they can affect your riding experience. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged could be dangerous. It's important to check the condition of your tires regularly, and replace them when they are worn out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. The tires that are filled with foam do not flatten however they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires however, the majority of full-sized and all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube that is filled with air like a bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most popular type of scooter tire, and they are easily repaired.
There are tires that have lines between the tube's outer and inner tire, which provide additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will show you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this pressure will help them last longer.
The majority of scooters are controlled via tillers that are T-shaped columns that move the front wheels to either the left or right. Other controls such as speed and turning signals may be found on the tiller as well. Some tillers come with handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. These are great for those who have weak strength and dexterity.
Batteries
It is important to have the right type battery in your scooter. The right battery can prolong the life of your scooter. It is also a good idea to be aware that batteries may lose performance over time. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as previously, it might be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a good option if you want your battery to last a long time. These batteries come with an immobile electrolyte and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a much longer lifespan than other batteries. However, they are more expensive upfront, although their durability makes them affordable in the long term.
Another option is to select an lithium battery. They are more expensive upfront but they can provide up to 10 times the lifespan of lead-acid batteries. Additionally, buying mobility scooter for air travel. They are backed by an IATA certification.
When buying a scooter battery it is important to look for the model and brand name of your mobility scooter on the label. Utilizing offbrand or generic batteries can damage your mobility scooter and cause it to work effectively. Also, if you own an older battery that was charged with another charger, it may not perform as well.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so make sure to check with the manufacturer. They typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any records of maintenance if you are purchasing an old mobility device. These records can help determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it's recently been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who are unable to walk due to age or illness, but only if it's used correctly. If it's not used correctly, it can cause injury to the user or those who are around them. It is essential to be aware of what to look out for when purchasing a mobility scooter to avoid this.
Make sure the scooter comes with an operating manual, which contains specific information for your model, including safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Keep the manual handy to refer to when using the scooter.
Test drive the scooter to see how comfortable it feels, and whether you can easily operate it with both hands. The scooter should be able to carry the weight you intend to transport.
Verify the ground clearance to make sure the scooter is able to go over bumps, obstacles, and more. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than full-sized models and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
If you're purchasing a second-hand scooter, ask about the history of its maintenance and repairs. These documents could provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider buying an item for your scooter such as a wheel clamp, to deter theft. The device attaches to the wheel of the scooter, and cannot be removed without tools, making it a good deterrent for thieves.
It's also a good idea to be familiar with the areas that you plan on travelling in, particularly areas that aren't able to accommodate scooter users. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so you are able to avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting friends.