Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter is an investment that can be costly. Private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often pay for the cost if a scooter is medically necessary.
People with mobility issues should be aware of the various types of scooters available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own requirements and objectives.
What to Consider
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing the right mobility device. There isn't a single size that will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter could cause problems such as a poor fit, a short battery life, or even safety issues.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Do they intend to use it to run around or shop? If yes, a light mobility device with a long battery lifespan is the best option. If they intend to travel over rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best option.
Also, keep in mind that your parent's physical health could change in the near future, so you will have to think about whether they'll be able to drive their mobility scooter in the next few months or years. If not, they may require a change in their scooter or look at the more permanent option of the power chair.
Before deciding on a final choice, you should encourage your parent to try various mobility scooters. They can test out how comfortable the seat is and see if they can reach the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure that they feel comfortable and the scooter fits them comfortably.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies if they sell used scooters. If you decide to purchase an used scooter, be sure to verify the warranty and other specifics to ensure you're getting what you purchased.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters that have two seats in order to be capable of transporting family or friends who want to accompany them on a trip. However, there are privacy concerns if those joining you will not be of a similar weight, as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also create issues with personal space. If these are concerns 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 friend and save money by not purchasing two mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you'll reduce the use of electricity 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 2-seat mobility scooter. Some models feature seats for the driver in the front and a passenger's seat behind, whereas others have both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range and premium scooters come with this arrangement, however certain models might only have an rear or front seat.
You can also purchase an electric scooter with an electric lifting system. This lets you effortlessly lift the scooter into and out of your car. This can help you save time and effort when it comes to planning your trip, since all you have to do is direct the scooter onto the lift platform and then turn on the switch. Then, you can drive off and when you are ready to return, simply reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are a vital part of the vehicle, and they can affect your riding experience. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged could be dangerous. You should check your tires regularly and replace them if they are worn.
There are three types of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. Foam-filled and solid tires will do not flatten however they are more difficult to move than pneumatic tires. Most portable and travel scooters have filled with foam or solid tires, whereas most full-sized and all-terrain scooters use pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires are made up of an inner tube that is filled with air similar to motorbike or bicycle tires. These are the most common type and can be fixed easily.
There are tires that come with liners that can be fitted between the outer tire and the inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. The owner's manual will show you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will ensure they last longer.
The majority of scooters are controlled by tillers which are T-shaped columns that move the front wheels to the left or right. The tiller may also have other controls, like speed and turning indicators. Some tillers have handles that wrap around called delta tillers. They are ideal for people who have limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery for your scooter is vital. The right battery can help extend the lifespan of your scooter. It is also a good idea to be aware that batteries can lose their performance as they age. If you notice that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it did in the past, it could be a sign it's in need of replacement.
A gel or AGM battery is a good option if you wish to have your battery to last a long time. These batteries are more resistant to squeezing because they have an airtight design and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. However, they're more expensive initially, but their longevity makes them affordable in the long term.
A lithium battery is another option. buy mobility scooter online at first, but can last up to 10x longer than lead-acid batteries. Additionally, they are suitable for travel in the air and come with a certificate from the IATA.
When buying a scooter battery it is essential to search for the brand name and model of your mobility scooter on the label. Using a generic or offbrand battery can cause damage to the scooter and cause it to not function correctly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that was recharged using a different charger, it may not function in the same way.
Contact the manufacturer to find out whether your scooter requires a more powerful battery. They usually have a list with 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 if the battery is old and if it's recently been maintained.
Safety
A scooter is a lifesaver to people who are incapable of walking due to age or illness. But it is essential to use it correctly. The incorrect use of a scooter can result in injury to the user and those surrounding them. It is important to know what to look for when buying mobility scooters in order to avoid this.
Make sure the scooter has an operating manual that contains specific information for your model, including safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Take a look at the manual and save it handy when you are using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and see if you can operate it comfortably with both hands. The scooter should be able handle the weight you plan to transport.
Verify the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it is able to travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable scooters have less ground clearance than full-sized models, and some scooters with special features might have less clearance.
Ask about the history of repair and maintenance when you purchase a second-hand scooter. Individual sellers may have records of repairs or replacements of parts and these records could provide valuable information about the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
You should consider purchasing the scooter's security device, such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is attached to the scooter's wheel and cannot be removed without tools, making it an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's also a good idea to be familiar with the areas that you plan on travelling in, particularly areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. You can steer clear of certain areas by knowing about curb cuts, and streets that do not have sidewalks.