Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are an expensive investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare typically cover the cost of a mobility scooter in the event that it's medically needed.
Mobility-impaired individuals should be aware of the different types of scooters that are available to them. Buyers must first know their own requirements and goals.
What to Consider
There are a lot of things to take into consideration when selecting the right mobility device. There is no one size that fits all - and the wrong mobility scooter could cause issues such as a bad fit, a low battery life or even safety issues.
The first thing to think about is what your parent would like to make use of the scooter. Do they need to go shopping or run errands? Or just ride it around the neighborhood? If yes, then a lightweight mobility scooter with a long battery life is probably the best option. If they plan to travel over bumpy or uneven terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best option.
Also, keep in mind that your parent's physical health might change in the future, so you'll need to consider whether they will still be able to use their mobility scooter within the next few months or years. If not, they may need to consider 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 test how comfortable the seat feels and whether they are in a position to reach the handle. 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 refurbished scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies to see whether they have used scooters for sale. It is essential to confirm the warranty and other details before buying an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats with the intention of being able to carry friends or family members who wish to join them on their journeys. There are privacy issues if those who will be with you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be crashing into each other, causing issues with personal space. If these are concerns you are concerned about, it's recommended to get a seat-behind scooter instead of one with a back and front seat.
A scooter with two seats lets you to not only be a part of a relative or friend but also save money by not needing to purchase two mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you will save money on the cost of electricity and wear and wear and tear. You can even split the cost of fuel.
When you are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are many different seating options to think about. Some models feature the driver's seat at the front and the passenger's seat behind. Others include both seats in the rear. Most mid-range and premium scooters come with this configuration, but some may only have an rear or front seat.
Another option is to buy a scooter with a power-operated lift, which permits you to effortlessly move the scooter in and out of your vehicle. This can help you save time and effort when planning your trip, because all you have to do is guide the scooter to the lift platform, then turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, turn back the procedure.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important component of the vehicle, and they can either make or break your experience riding. Tires that are in good shape will give you a comfortable, smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or old can pose a risk. You should inspect your tires regularly and replace them if they become worn out.
There are three types of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. Solid and foam-filled scooter tires are not flat, but they are harder to maneuver than pneumatic ones. Most travel/portable scooters come with filled with foam or solid tires, while most all-terrain and full-size scooters use pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires come with an inner tube that's air-filled like motorbike or bicycle tires. They're the most popular type of scooter tire, and they can be easily repaired.
There are also tires with liners that fit between the tire's outer and inner tube, offering protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Tires will last longer when they are filled to this pressure.
Many scooters are controlled by tillers that are T-shaped columns which turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls, such as turning and speed signals can be on the tiller too. Some tillers have wraparound handles called delta tillers. They are ideal for people who have limited dexterity and strength.
Batteries
It is important to have the right type battery in your scooter. The right battery can extend the life of your scooter. You should also keep in your mind that batteries lose performance with time. If you find that your battery isn't able to hold charge as well as before, it may be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a great option if you want your battery to last a long time. These batteries come with an immobile electrolytes and are airtight which makes them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other lead acid batteries. They're a little more expensive initially, but their long-term cost-effectiveness makes them worth it.
Another option is to opt for a lithium battery. They're a bit more expensive upfront but they offer up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. Additionally, they're safe for travel in the air. They are backed by 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. The use of offbrand or generic batteries can damage your mobility scooter and cause it to work correctly. If you own an old battery that was recharged using another charger, it may not function the same way.
Some scooters require more powerful batteries than others, so be sure to check with the manufacturer. Typically, they will have a list of compatible batteries recommended for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have documents of maintenance records in the event that you purchase an old mobility device. These can aid in determining the condition 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 but only if used correctly. A mistake in use could cause injury to the user as well as people around them. To avoid this, it's important to understand what to look for when purchasing a mobility scooter prior buying.
Make sure the scooter has an operating manual that provides model-specific information, including safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Keep buy scooter near me in your possession and read it in mind when you use the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and see if you are able to operate it easily with both hands. The scooter should be able handle the weight you plan to carry.
Verify the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to go over obstacles, bumps and more. Travel/portable scooters have lower ground clearance than full-sized models and some specialty scooters may have even lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, ask about its history of maintenance and repair. Individual sellers may have records of repairs or replacements of parts and these records could give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider buying a scooter security device such as a wheel clamp, to stop theft. The device attaches to the scooter's wheel and cannot be removed without tools, so it's an effective deterrent to thieves.
It's also a good idea to be familiar with the areas you're planning to travel through, specifically places where scooter users may have trouble. You can steer clear of certain areas by knowing about curb cuts and streets with no sidewalks.