Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter can be an expensive investment. Private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare usually pay for the cost if a scooter is medically necessary.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, those who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of all about scooters and the alternatives that are available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own requirements and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the best mobility scooter, there are many things to consider. There is no one size that fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter can cause problems such as a poor fit, a poor battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to think about is what your parents want to make use of the scooter. Do they want to make use of it to run errands or go shopping? If so, a light mobility device with a long battery lifespan is the best choice. If they plan to travel on bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best option.
Be aware that the physical health of your parent could change in a few years. You'll need to determine whether they will be able drive their mobility scooter after. If not, they may require a change in their mobility scooter or think about the more permanent option of a power chair.
Before deciding on a final choice before making a final decision, you should encourage your child to test various mobility scooters. They can feel how comfortable the seat is and if they are able to reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side in order to ensure that the scooter fits them and is comfortable.
Some dealers have used scooters that have been well-maintained So inquire with your local dealer whether they have any of these available. You can also contact rental companies to see if they have any used scooters available for auction. It is essential to confirm the warranty and other information before purchasing an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters that have two seats to be capable of transporting family members or friends who want to join them on a trip. There can be privacy issues if the people who are joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be bumping into each other and causing problems with personal space. If you have any of these issues that you are worried about, it is suggested to buy a scooter with a seat behind instead of one with a front and back seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you'll be able to not just enjoy the company of a relative or friend and save money by not having to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear as well as electricity by having just one scooter that you can operate and even split the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options to choose from when shopping for a two-seat mobility scooter. Some models have seats for the driver in the front and a passenger's seat behind, whereas others have both seats at the rear. The majority of mid-range and premium scooters feature this setup, however, certain models might only have a front or rear seat.
Another option is to buy a scooter with a power-operated lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. You can reduce time and effort by buying the scooter with a powered lift. All you need to do is place the scooter on the lift's platform and then turn on the switch. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, just reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter may cause or hinder the experience of riding. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged could be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires regularly and replace them as they are worn out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires including foam-filled, pneumatic and solid. Solid and foam-filled tires do not flatten, but they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most portable and travel scooters have foam-filled or solid tires, whereas most all-terrain and full-size scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires have an inner tube filled with air, similar to the motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire, and they can be easily repaired.
There are also tires with liners that can be fitted between the tire's outer and inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this level will ensure they last longer.
Many scooters are steered using tillers which are columns in the shape of a T that turn the front wheels to the left or right. The tiller can also include other controls, such as turning and speed indicators. Some tillers have handles that wrap around, called delta tillers, which are great for those with limited hand dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right battery for your scooter is vital. The right battery can help extend the life of your scooter. It is important to keep in mind that batteries can lose their performance over time. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as it did before, it could be time to replace it.
If you'd like to ensure your battery lasts for a long time, it's worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries are more resistant to squeezing because they have an airtight design and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. However, they're more expensive in the beginning, however their long-lasting nature makes them more economical in the long run.
Another option is to opt for the lithium battery. They are more expensive initially, but can last 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are suitable for travel in the air and come with a certifying from the IATA.
It's important that you examine the label on the scooter battery to see the model and brand name. A generic or offbrand model of battery could cause damage to your scooter and cause it to not function properly. If you have an old battery that was recharged using a different charger it may not perform similarly.
Certain scooters require stronger batteries than others, so make sure to inquire with the manufacturer. They'll usually have a list with compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have documentation of maintenance, if you are purchasing an old mobility device. They can aid in determining the condition of the battery and whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who are unable to walk due or illness but only if used correctly. A mistake in the use of a mobility scooter could cause injury to the user and others around them. It's important to be aware of what to look out for when buying mobility scooter s to avoid this.
Make sure the scooter has an operating manual that provides model-specific information, including safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Take a look at the manual and save it for reference when using the scooter.
Check the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it with ease using both hands. The scooter should be able to handle the weight you plan to carry.
Examine the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure that it can travel over bumps and other obstacles. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than larger models, and some specialty scooters might have less clearance.
Find out the details of the history of repairs and maintenance if you're purchasing a used scooter. The seller may have records of repairs or replacements of parts and these records could provide valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
Consider buying a security gadget for your scooter, like clamps, to stop theft. The device attaches to the wheel of the scooter, and can't be removed without tools, making it an effective deterrent for thieves.
It's important to familiarize yourself with the areas you plan to travel through, especially areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. You can steer clear of certain areas by learning about curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.