Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter can be an investment that can be costly. Fortunately private insurance companies as well as government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a mobility scooter if it's medically necessary.
To ensure they buy the correct model, those with travel-limiting disabilities should know about scooters and the options that are available to them. Buyers should first understand their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the best mobility scooter, there are a variety of factors to consider. There isn't a single size that will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter could lead to problems like a poor fit, a poor battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to consider is what your parents want to utilize the scooter for. Do buy mobility scooter near me need to go shopping, run errands, or just ride it around the neighborhood? If so, then a lightweight mobility scooter with a long battery life is probably the best option. If they want to travel on rough or uneven terrain, a four-wheeler with larger tires may be the better option.
Keep in mind that the physical health of your parent might change in the next few years. You'll need to determine if they will be able to drive their mobility scooter in the future. If not, then they may need to think about upgrading their scooter or a more durable solution such as a power chair.
If it is possible, your parents should test a few different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can test how comfortable the seat is and whether they are able to reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure that they feel comfortable and the scooter is a good fit for them comfortably.
Ask your local dealer about the possibility of refurbished scooters. You can also contact rental companies to find out whether they have used scooters for auction. It is important to verify the warranty and other details before buying an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seats in order to be able to transport family or friends who wish to join them on a trip. There can be privacy issues if those who are joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be bumping into each other and causing problems with personal space. If these are issues you are worried about, it's recommended to buy a scooter with a seat behind instead of one with a back and front seat.
With a scooter that has two seats, you'll be able to not only be able to enjoy the company of a relative or a friend, but also save money by not buying two separate mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you will save on the cost of electricity and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
There are a variety of seating options to choose from when looking for a mobility scooter with two seats. Some models feature an driver's seat in the front and a passenger seat behind, while others have both seats at the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters come with this arrangement however more advanced and premium models may have either an front seat or a rear seat only.
Another option is to buy an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter in and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when preparing for your trip, because all you have to do is steer the scooter onto the lift platform and turn on the switch. You can then drive off and when you are ready to return, you can reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are a vital component of the vehicle, and they can either make or break the experience you have. A set of quality tires will provide you with an enjoyable, smooth ride, but old or damaged ones can be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently, and replace them when they are worn out.
There are three types of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are not flat, but they are more difficult to move than pneumatic ones. Most travel/portable Scooters come with rubber or spongy tires and the majority of full-sized and all terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air as the bicycle or motorbike tire. They are the most popular type of tire and can be repaired easily.
There are tires that have lines between the outer tube and the inner tire, which provide additional protection against punctures. Most manufacturers recommend a particular tire pressure for each scooter model and the recommended pressure is found in the owner's manual. Tires will last longer when they are filled to this pressure.
Many scooters are steered using tillers that are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels either left or right. Other controls like turning and speed indicators can be located on the tiller as well. Some tillers come with wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are perfect for those with limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right battery in your scooter is crucial. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter run longer. It's also a good idea to keep in mind that batteries can lose their performance as they age. If you are 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.
If you want to ensure your battery will last for a long time, then it's worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries feature an impermeable electrolytes and are airtight, which makes them more resistant jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. They're a little more expensive initially but their long-term value makes them worth it.
A lithium battery is an alternative option. They're more expensive initially, but can last 10 times longer than lead-acid batteries. Plus, they're safe for travel in the air. They are backed by an IATA certification.
It is crucial to look at the label of the battery for your scooter to determine the model and brand name. A generic or offbrand battery can cause damage to your scooter and cause it to not work correctly. Also, if you own an older battery that has been recharged using another charger, it might not perform as well.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so make sure to consult the manufacturer. They will typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any documents of maintenance records if you are purchasing a used mobility device. They can assist you in determining the condition of the battery as well as whether it has been recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter is an emergency aid for people who are incapable of walking due to age or illness. However, it is essential to use it correctly. Incorrect use of a mobility scooter could cause injury to the user as well as those 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 maintenance schedule. Keep the manual in your pocket to refer to when using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and see if you are able to operate it with ease using both hands. The scooter should also be able to handle the weight you're planning on transporting.
Check the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to go over obstacles, bumps and more. The models that are portable or travel-friendly have less clearance than full-sized scooters. specialty models may have an even lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repair. These documents may provide valuable information on the condition of a scooter before you purchase it.
Consider buying a scooter security device such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device attaches to the wheel of the scooter and isn't able to be removed with tools, which makes it an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's important to get familiar with the areas that you plan to travel in, especially areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so that you are able to avoid these areas while shopping or visiting your friends.