Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Buying a mobility scooter is a major financial investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs like Medicare typically cover the cost of a mobility scooter in the event that it's medically needed.
Mobility-impaired individuals should be familiarized with the various types of scooters available to them. In the beginning, buyers should understand their individual requirements and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the right mobility scooter, there are numerous aspects to take into consideration. There is no one size fits all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility can result in issues such as a poor fit, low battery life, or even safety issues.
What will your parent use the scooter for? Do they need to go shopping or run errands? Or just ride it around the neighborhood? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long-lasting battery would be the best choice. If they intend to travel on bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheeler with bigger tires might be a better choice.
Be aware that the physical health of your parent might change in a few years. You'll have to decide whether they will be able to drive their mobility scooter after. If not, then they may need to consider upgrading their scooter or a more durable solution such as a power chair.
If it is possible, your parents should try out a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can see how comfortable the seat feels and whether they are in a position to reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to make sure that they feel comfortable and that the scooter fits them comfortably.
Some dealers sell used scooters that have been maintained So inquire with your local dealer whether they have any of these available. You can also inquire from rental companies if they sell used scooters. If you do decide to purchase an used scooter, be sure to review the warranty and other specifics to ensure you are getting what you paid for.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats with the intention of being able to carry friends or family members who wish to join them on their travels. However, there are privacy issues if the persons joining you will not be of a similar weight as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also cause issues with personal space. If buy a motor scooter near me are concerns you are worried about, it's recommended to get a seat-behind scooter instead of one with a front and back seat.
A scooter with two seats enables you to not only enjoy the company of a relative or friend, but also to reduce costs by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you'll save money on electricity and wear and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of seating options to choose from when shopping for a mobility scooter with two seats. Certain models have the driver's seat in the front and the passenger seat behind. Some models have both seats in the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters come with this configuration, but some may only have an rear or front seat.
You can also purchase an electric scooter with a power-operated lifting system. This lets you easily get the scooter into and out of your vehicle. This can save you time and effort when planning your trip, as all you need to do is direct the scooter onto the lift platform and turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important component of the vehicle, and they can affect your riding experience. Tires that are in good condition will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged could be dangerous. You should check your tires on a regular basis and replace them if they become worn.
There are several types of scooter tires available: solid, pneumatic and foam-filled. Foam-filled and solid tires will are never flat, but they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most portable and travel scooters have filled with foam or solid tires, whereas the majority of all-terrain and full-size scooters use pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires have an inner tube filled with air like motorbike or bicycle tires. They're the most popular type of scooter tire and they're easily repaired.
There are tires that have liner between the outer tube and the inner tire, which offer additional protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Tires will last longer when they are inflated to this pressure.
Many scooters are steered using tillers that are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls like turning and speed signals can be on the tiller too. Some tillers have handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. They are ideal for those who have weak strength and dexterity.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery for your scooter is crucial. The right battery will make your scooter run for longer. It's also a good idea to be aware that batteries will lose performance as they age. If you find that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as it did before, it may be time to replace it.
If you want to ensure your battery will last for a long period of time, then it's worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These types of batteries have immobile electrolytes and are airtight which makes them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. However, they are slightly more expensive upfront, although their longevity makes them affordable in the long term.
Another option is to opt for the lithium battery. They're a bit more expensive in the beginning, but they can provide up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. They're also safe for air travel. They come with an IATA certification.
When purchasing a scooter battery, it's important to look for the brand name and model of your mobility scooter on the label. If you use a generic or offbrand battery can damage your scooter and cause it to not function correctly. Also, if you own an older battery that was charged using a different charger, it might not function similarly.
Make sure to check with the manufacturer to find out the need for an extra powerful battery. They typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you're buying a used mobility scooter, ask the seller to provide any maintenance documents they have. These records will help you determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it's recently been serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver to people who are incapable of walking due to age or illness. However, it is essential to use it correctly. The incorrect use of a scooter can result in injury to the user as well as those who are around them. It is important 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 that provides specific information for your model, including safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Keep the manual on hand for reference when you use the scooter.
Test the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and whether you can easily operate it using both hands. The scooter should be able handle the weight you plan to transport.
Examine the ground clearance to make sure the scooter is able to go over obstacles, bumps and more. Travel/portable scooters have lower ground clearance than larger models, and specialty scooters might have lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repairs. These documents could provide valuable information about the condition of a scooter before you buy it.
Consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, like a clamp, to prevent theft. The device is connected to the wheel of the scooter and can't be removed without using tools. It's a great deterrent against thieves.
It's important to familiarize yourself with the areas you plan to travel in, especially areas that aren't able to accommodate scooter users. Find out where to find curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so that you can avoid these areas when going shopping or visiting friends.