11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually Okay To Do With Your Buying Mobility Scooter
Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Buying a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often cover the cost of the scooter is medically needed.
People with mobility issues should be familiarized with the various types of scooters that are available to them. Buyers must first know their own requirements and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the best mobility scooter, there are a variety of factors to consider. There is no one size that will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter could cause problems like a poor fit, a low battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to consider is what your parent wants to use the scooter for. Do they want to use it to complete out for errands or to shop? If yes then a light mobility scooter with a long battery life is likely to be the best option. If they want to navigate through bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger tires could be the better option.
Keep in mind that your parent's physical health may change in the near future, so you'll be able to determine if they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter in a few months or years. If not, they might have to think about upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent solution such as a power chair.
If you can, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can determine how comfortable the seat feels and test if they can reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side to make sure that the scooter fits their needs and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about used scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they offer used scooters. It is important to verify the warranty and other information prior to purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seating in order to be able to transport family or friends who wish to accompany them on their journey. There can be privacy issues if the people who are joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be crashing into each other, causing issues with privacy. If you're worried about these concerns, it's recommended that you get a scooter with an additional seat behind, instead of one with an front and rear seat.
With a scooter with two seats, you can not just enjoy the company of a relative or a friend, but also save money by not purchasing two separate mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear and also electricity by only having one scooter that you can operate and even share costs for fuel.
There are many seating options to choose from when shopping for a mobility scooter with two seats. Some models feature the driver's seat at the front and the passenger seat behind. best place to buy mobility scooter include both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters have this configuration however more sophisticated and premium models may include one seat in the front or a rear seat with a single seat.
You can also purchase an electric scooter with an electric lifting system. This lets you easily get the scooter into and out of your vehicle. This will save you time and effort when planning your trip, because all you have to do is guide the scooter onto the lift platform, then turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter can make or ruin your experience riding. A set of quality tires will provide an easy, comfortable ride, however old or damaged ones can be dangerous. You should check your tires regularly and replace them if they become worn.
There are a variety of kinds of scooter tires available: pneumatic, solid and foam filled. The tires that are filled with foam are never flat, but they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable Scooters come with solid or spongy tires, however, the majority of all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires have an inner tube filled with air like a bicycle or motorbike tire. They are the most popular type of tire and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with liners that fit between the outer tire and the inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer.
The majority of scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns that rotate the front wheels to either the left or right. Other controls, such as turning and speed indicators can be located on the tiller as well. Some tillers come with handles that wrap around, referred to as delta tillers. They are ideal for those with limited strength and dexterity.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery for your scooter is crucial. The right battery can prolong the life of your scooter. You should also keep in the mind that batteries lose performance over time. If you're noticing that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as it used to, it could be a sign it is in need of replacement.
A gel or AGM battery is a great option if you want your battery to last a long time. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they have an airtight design and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. They are slightly more costly initially, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worth it.
Another option is to select an lithium battery. They're more expensive at first, but can last 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. Plus, they're suitable for travel on planes. They have an IATA certification.
It's important that you look at the label of the battery on your scooter to find the model and brand name. A generic or offbrand battery can harm the scooter and cause it to not function correctly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that was recharged using a different charger, it might not work similarly.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to check with the manufacturer. They typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any records of maintenance when you purchase a used mobility device. They can assist you in determining the condition of the battery and if it was recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for people who struggle to walk because of age or illness however, only if it's operated properly. Incorrect use can cause injury to the user as well as the people in the vicinity. To avoid this, it's vital to know what to look for in a mobility scooter before purchasing.
The manual should contain specific information for the model, like 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 should also be able to carry the amount of weight you're planning on transporting.
Verify the ground clearance to make sure the scooter is able to pass over bumps, obstacles, and more. The models that are portable or travel-friendly have less clearance than larger scooters, and specialty models may have an even smaller clearance.
Ask about the history of repair and maintenance in the case of purchasing a used scooter. Individual sellers might have records of any repairs or parts replacements and these records could give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter before you purchase it.
Consider purchasing the scooter's security device such as a wheel clamp, to deter theft. The device is fixed to the wheel of the scooter and can't be removed without using tools. It's a powerful deterrent against thieves.
It's a good idea also to get familiar with the area that you plan to travel in, especially areas where scooters may have trouble. You can avoid certain areas by learning about curb cuts and streets without sidewalks.