Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter purchase is a big financial investment. Private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost if the scooter is medically required.
To ensure they buy the correct model, those with travel-limiting disabilities should know 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 right mobility scooter, there are a variety of factors to consider. There isn't such thing as a one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility can cause problems such as a poor fit, low battery life, or even safety concerns.
The first thing to consider is what your parents want to utilize the scooter for. Do they want to go shopping, run errands, or just ride it around the neighborhood? If yes then a light mobility scooter with good battery life is the best option. If they intend to travel over bumpy or uneven terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels may be the best option.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical condition might change in the future, so you'll need to consider whether they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter within some months or even years. If not, then they might have to look into upgrading their scooter or a more permanent alternative such as a power wheelchair.
If possible, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before deciding. They can determine how comfortable the seat feels and see if they can reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure they're comfortable and the scooter fits them well.
Some dealers offer refurbished scooters that have been well-maintained and maintained, so ask your local dealer if they have any of these available. You can also contact rental companies to find out whether they have any second-hand scooters for sale. If you do buy an used scooter, be sure to check the warranty and other details to ensure you get what you paid for.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats in the hopes of being able transport friends or family members who want to accompany them on their travels. There can be privacy issues if the persons who will be with you are not of the same weight. buy a mobility scooter near me could mean that they will be crashing into each other, causing issues with privacy. If you have any of these issues that you are worried about, it's recommended to get a seat-behind scooter instead of one that has a rear and front seat.
With a scooter with two seats, you can not just enjoy the company of a family member or a friend but also save money by not buying two mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear and also electricity by using just one scooter that you can operate, and you can even split the cost of fuel.
If you're looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are many different seating options to consider. Some models feature an driver's seat in the front and a passenger's seat behind, whereas others include both seats at the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters have this arrangement, however certain models might only have an rear or front seat.
Another option is to purchase a scooter with a power-operated lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter in and out of your vehicle. You can cut down on time and effort by buying an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift. All you need to do is put the scooter on the lift platform, and then switch it on. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, just reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important component of the vehicle, and they can affect your experience riding. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or worn out can pose a risk. It is important to check your tires regularly and replace them if they are worn out.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires that are available: pneumatic, solid and foam filled. These tires are never flat, but are harder to maneuver than pneumatic ones. Most travel/portable scooters come with filled with foam or solid tires, whereas most all-terrain and full-size scooters have 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 can be easily repaired.
There are tires that come with liners that fit 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 value can be found in the owner's manual. Inflating the tires to this value will ensure they last longer.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns that rotate the front wheels to either the left or right. The tiller may also have other controls, including speed and turning indicators. Some tillers come with wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are great for those with limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is important to have the right type battery in your scooter. The right battery can help extend the lifespan of your scooter. It is important to keep in the mind that batteries lose performance with time. If you are noticing that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it did in the past it could be a sign that it is in need of replacement.
If you're looking to ensure that your battery will last for a long period of time, then it's worth investing in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries are more resistant to jostling because they feature an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. They're a little more expensive upfront but their long-term value is worth it.
A lithium battery is another option. They're a bit more expensive upfront but they offer up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are suitable for travel in the air and are available with a certificate from the IATA.
It is crucial to look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and the brand name. The use of offbrand or generic batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it to work correctly. If you have an old battery that was charged using an alternative charger, it might not work the same way.
Contact the manufacturer to determine whether your scooter requires an extra powerful battery. They usually have a list with compatible batteries for their scooters. If you are buying a used mobility scooter, ask the seller to provide any maintenance records they have. They can help you determine the age of the battery and whether it was recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who struggle to walk due or illness but only if operated properly. If it's not used correctly, it can cause injuries to the user or those who are around them. It is essential to be aware of the things to look for when buying a mobility scooter to avoid this.
The manual should contain specific information about the model like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual handy for reference while using the scooter.
Try the scooter out to see how comfortable it is and whether you can operate it with both hands. The scooter should be able to handle the weight you plan to carry.
Check the ground clearance to make sure the scooter is able to pass over bumps, obstacles, and more. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than full-sized models and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, ask about the history of its maintenance and repair. The seller may have records of any repairs or replacements for parts and these records could provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
You should consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, like clamps, which can deter theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter, and cannot be removed without tools. It's a powerful security measure against thieves.
It's important to get familiar with the areas you plan on travelling in, particularly areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks, so you can avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting your friends.