Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter is an investment that is costly. Private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare usually pay for the cost if the scooter is medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, people with disabilities that restrict mobility need to know all about scooters and the alternatives available to them. Buyers should first understand their own requirements and goals.
What to Consider
There are many things to take into consideration when selecting the best mobility device. There is no one size fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter could cause issues such as a bad fit, a poor battery life or even safety concerns.
What will your parent use the scooter for? Are they planning to make use of it to run out for errands or to shop? If yes then a lightweight mobility scooter that has a long battery life is the best option. If they want to navigate through bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires may be a better choice.
Be aware that the physical health of your parent might change in the next few years. You'll need to determine if they will be able drive their mobility scooter in the future. If not, best place to buy a mobility scooter may need to upgrade their scooter or consider an alternative that is more durable, such as a power chair.
If you can, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test how comfortable the seat is and see if they can reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side to ensure that the scooter is suited to them and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they offer used scooters. If you do buy an used scooter, it is important to check the warranty and other information to ensure that you are getting what you paid for.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters that have two seats to be capable of transporting family or friends who want to accompany them on their journey. There can be privacy issues if those who will be joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be crashing into each other, causing issues with privacy. If you're worried about these issues it's recommended to opt for a scooter with a seat behind instead of one which has two seats in the front and back.
A scooter with two seats allows you to not only enjoy the companionship of a relative or friend, but also to cut costs by not needing to purchase two separate mobility vehicles. By using only one scooter, you'll reduce the use of electricity and wear and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
If you're looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are different seating options to consider. Certain models come with an driver's seat in the front and a passenger's seat behind, whereas others have both seats in the rear. Most mid-range scooters will feature this arrangement however more sophisticated and premium models may include an front seat or a rear seat only.
You can also purchase a scooter that has a lift system powered by electricity. This lets you effortlessly lift the scooter into and out of your car. You can save time and effort by buying a scooter with a power-operated lift. All you need to do is place the scooter on the lift platform, and then switch it on. You can then drive off and when you are ready to return, simply reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are a crucial part of the vehicle, and they can either make or break the experience you have. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old could be dangerous. It is essential to check the condition of your tires regularly and replace them if they wear out.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires that are available: pneumatic, solid and foam filled. The foam-filled and solid tires are not flat, but they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic ones. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have solid or spongy tires however, the majority of the full-sized and all terrain scooters come with pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air, similar to the bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most popular type of scooter tire and they are easily repaired.
Tires are also available with liners that can be fitted between the tire's outer and inner tube, giving protection against punctures. The majority of manufacturers recommend a specific tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended pressure is found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this pressure will help them last longer.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers, which are T shaped columns that turn the front wheels to either the left or right. Other controls like speed and turning signals may be on the tiller as well. Some tillers come with handles that wrap around called delta tillers. These are great for those who have weak dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is essential to select the correct battery for your scooter. The right battery will make your scooter run longer. It's important to keep in mind that batteries may lose performance over time. If you notice that your battery isn't able hold charge as well as it did before, it could be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a great option if you wish to have your battery to last a long time. These batteries are more resistant to squeezing due to their airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer time to last than other lead acid batteries. They're slightly more expensive upfront, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worth it.
Another option is to opt for a lithium battery. They're more expensive initially, but can last up to 10 times longer than lead acid batteries. They are also safe for air travel and come with a certification from the IATA.
It is important to look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and the brand name. A generic or offbrand battery can cause damage to the scooter and result in it not functioning properly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that was recharged using a different charger, it might not function in the same way.
Contact the manufacturer to see the need for more power from the battery. They'll typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you're buying a used mobility scooter ask the seller for any maintenance documents they have. These records will help you determine whether the battery is old and if it's recently been serviced.
Safety
A scooter is a lifesaver to people who are incapable of walking due to illness or age. But it is essential to use it correctly. Incorrect use of a mobility scooter could cause injury to the user and others who are around them. It is important to know what to look for when buying a mobility scooter to avoid this.
The manual should contain specific information about the model such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your pocket for reference while using the scooter.
Check the scooter's comfort and see if you can operate it with ease using both hands. The scooter must also be able to carry the amount of weight you're planning on transporting.
Check the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to go over obstacles, bumps and more. The scooters that are portable or travel-friendly have less ground clearance than full-sized models, and some specialty scooters might have lower clearance.
Ask about the background of maintenance and repair in the case of purchasing a used scooter. Sellers may have records of any repairs or replacements of parts, and these documents can provide valuable insight into the condition of the scooter before you buy it.
You should consider purchasing a scooter security device such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter, and can't be removed without tools, making it a good deterrent for thieves.
It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the areas that you plan to travel through, especially areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks, so you are able to avoid these areas when going shopping or visiting your friends.