Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Buying a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a mobility scooter if it's medically necessary.
Individuals with mobility limitations must be aware of different types of scooters available to them. Buyers should first understand their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes to selecting the right mobility scooter, there are numerous things to consider. There isn't a single size that is perfect for everyone. Choosing the wrong mobility scooter could lead to problems like a poor fit, a poor battery life or even safety concerns.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Do they want to go shopping or run errands? Or just take it for rides around the neighborhood? If so then a light mobility scooter that has a long battery life is likely to be the best option. If buying a second hand mobility scooter intend to navigate through rough or bumpy terrain, a four-wheel scooter with bigger tires might be the better option.
Also, keep in mind that your parent's physical condition could change in the near future, and you'll have to think about whether they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter within some months or even years. If not, then they might need to think about upgrading their scooter or a more durable alternative such as a power wheelchair.
If you can, your parent should test a few different mobility scooters before deciding. They can determine how comfortable the seat feels and test if they can reach the tiller. They should also sit on the driver's side in order to ensure that the scooter fits them and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about used scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they have used scooters. It is crucial to confirm the warranty and other information before purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters that have two seats to be capable of transporting family or friends who wish to join them on a trip. There are privacy issues if those who are joining you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be crashing into each other and causing issues with privacy. If you're worried about these issues, it's recommended that you opt for a scooter with a seat behind instead of one that has two seats in the front and back.
A scooter with two seats enables you to not only enjoy the company of a family member or friend and family members, but also cut costs by not having to buy two separate mobility vehicles. By using just one scooter, you will save money on the cost of electricity and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
When shopping for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are different seating options to consider. Some models feature a driver's seat in the front and a passenger seat behind, while some have both seats in the rear. Most mid-range scooters will have this configuration however more advanced and premium scooters may have either one seat in the front or a rear-only seat.
Another option is to purchase the scooter with a powered lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter in and out of your vehicle. You can save time and effort by purchasing an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift. All you need to do is place the scooter on the lift platform and then turn the switch. Then, you can drive off and when you are ready to return, simply reverse the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important component of the vehicle, and they can affect the experience you have. Tires that are in good condition will provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or worn out could be dangerous. It is important to examine the condition of your tires frequently and replace them as they wear out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are never flat, but are harder to maneuver than pneumatic ones. The majority of portable and travel scooters have rubber or spongy tires and the majority of full-sized and all terrain scooters come with pneumatic tires.
The inner tube of pneumatic tires is filled with air, just like the bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most commonly used type and can be fixed easily.
Tires are also available with liners that fit between the tire's outer and inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. The owner's manual will show you the recommended tire pressure. Tires will last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
Many scooters are controlled by tillers, which are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels either left or right. The tiller may also have other controls, such as turning and speed indicators. Some tillers have handles that wrap around called delta tillers. They are ideal for those with limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is essential to choose the correct type of battery for your scooter. The right battery can extend the lifespan of your scooter. You should also keep in mind that batteries lose their performance as they age. If you find that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as before, it could be time to replace it.
If you're looking to ensure that your battery will last for a long time, then it's worth investing in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they have an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. They're a little more expensive upfront but their long-term value makes them worthwhile.
Another option is to opt for the lithium battery. They're more expensive at first however, they can last 10x longer than lead-acid batteries. Plus, they're safe for travel in the air. They are backed by an IATA certification.
When buying an electric scooter battery it is essential to search for the model and brand name of your mobility scooter on the label. If you use a generic or offbrand model of battery could cause damage to your scooter and result in it not functioning properly. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was recharged using a different charger, it might not work in the same way.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer. They will typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you are purchasing an old mobility scooter, ask the seller for any maintenance records they have. These can assist you in determining the age of the battery as well as whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for those who are unable to walk due to age or illness however, only if it's used correctly. A mistake in the use of a mobility scooter can result in injury to the user and those who are around them. To avoid this, it's essential to understand what to look for in a mobility scooter before buying.
The manual should include specific information about the model such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Read the manual and keep it for reference when using the scooter.
Test the scooter to see how comfortable it is, and if you are able to operate it with both hands. The scooter should be able to take on the weight you want to transport.
Verify the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure that it can travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable scooters have lower ground clearance than larger models, and specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
If you're buying a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repairs. These documents may give you valuable information about the condition of a scooter before you purchase it.
Consider buying the scooter's security device, such as a wheel clamp, to prevent theft. The device is connected to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without tools. It's an effective protection against thieves.
It's important to get familiar with the areas you plan to travel in, especially areas that aren't able to accommodate scooter users. You can avoid certain areas by knowing about curb cuts, and streets that do not have sidewalks.