Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter purchase is a major financial investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare typically cover the cost of a scooter when it's medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, people who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of all they can about scooters and what options that are available to them. In the beginning, buyers must understand their specific needs and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the right mobility scooter, there are a variety of factors to consider. There isn't a single size that will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter can cause issues such as a bad fit, a poor battery life or even safety issues.
The first thing to consider is what your parent wants to utilize the scooter for. Do they want to go shopping, run errands, or just take it for rides around the neighborhood? If yes then a light mobility scooter with a long battery life is the best choice. If they plan to travel on bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires could be the better option.
Be aware that the physical health of your parent might change over the course of a few years. You'll need to determine whether they will be able to drive their mobility scooter then. If not, they might need to think about upgrading their scooter or a more permanent solution like a power wheelchair.
If it is possible, your parents should test a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can see how comfortable the seat is and if they're able to reach the handle. buying a mobility scooter should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure that they feel comfortable and the scooter fits the person well.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also contact rental companies to find out whether they have any second-hand scooters for auction. It is crucial to confirm the warranty and other information prior to purchasing an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats in the hopes of being able transport family members or friends who wish to join them on their trips. There can be privacy issues if the persons who are joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be crashing into each other and causing problems with personal space. If you have any of these issues that you are concerned about, it is suggested to buy a scooter with a seat behind instead of one that has a rear and front seat.
A scooter with two seats enables you to not only enjoy the company of a friend or relative but also reduce costs by not needing to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you'll reduce the use of electricity and wear and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options available when shopping for a two-seat mobility scooter. Certain models have the driver's seat at the front and the passenger's seat behind. Others have both seats in the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters feature this arrangement, however certain models might only have a front or rear seat.
You can also purchase an electric scooter with a lift system powered by electricity. This lets you effortlessly get the scooter in and out of your vehicle. You can save time and effort by purchasing a scooter with a power-operated lift. All you have to do is put the scooter on the lift platform, and then turn the switch. You can then drive away and when you're ready to return, turn back the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter could alter or ruin your experience riding. Tires that are in good condition will provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old could be dangerous. You should check your tires regularly and replace them if they become worn.
There are three kinds of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. The tires that are filled with foam do not flatten, but they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. The majority of portable and travel scooters have rubber or spongy tires while the majority of full-sized and all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The inner tube of pneumatic tires is filled with air as a motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most commonly used type of tire and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with lines between the tube's outer and inner tire, which offer additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Tires will last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
Many scooters are steered using tillers, which are T-shaped columns which turn the front wheels either left or right. Other controls, such as turning and speed signals can be located on the tiller, too. Some tillers have handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. These are great for people who have limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery in your scooter is crucial. The right battery can prolong the lifespan of your scooter. It's important to keep in mind that batteries can lose their performance over time. If you notice that your battery isn't able retain charge as well as previously, it might be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a great option if you want your battery to last for a long time. These batteries are more resistant to jostling because they have an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer time to last than other lead acid batteries. However, they are slightly more expensive upfront, although their durability makes them economical in the long run.
A lithium battery is an alternative option. They're a bit more expensive in the beginning, but they offer up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. They're also safe for travel in the air. They are backed by an IATA certification.
It is important to look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and brand name. Utilizing offbrand or generic batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it not to function correctly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that has been charged with an alternative charger, it might not work in the same way.
Contact the manufacturer to determine the need for more power from the battery. They typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you're buying an old mobility scooter, ask the seller for any maintenance documents they have. These can help you determine the condition of the battery as well as whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be an emergency aid for people who are disabled to walk due to age or illness. However, it must be used correctly. The incorrect use of a scooter can result in injury to the user as well as those who are around them. To avoid this, it's vital to know what you should look for when purchasing a mobility scooter prior purchasing.
The manual should contain model-specific information like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual on hand for reference when you use the scooter.
Test the comfort of the scooter and determine if you're able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter should be able handle the weight you plan to carry.
Verify the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it is able to travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than full-sized models and some specialty scooters might have lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, inquire about its history of maintenance and repairs. These documents can provide valuable information on the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
Consider buying a scooter security device, such as a wheel clamp, to deter theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without tools, so it's an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's a good idea also to be familiar with the areas that you plan to travel in, especially places where scooter users might have issues. You can steer clear of certain areas by studying curb cuts and streets without sidewalks.