buying a mobility scooter to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are an investment that can be costly. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter if it's medically necessary.
People with mobility issues must be aware of various types of scooters available to them. Buyers must first know their own requirements and goals.
What to Consider
When it comes to choosing the right mobility scooter, there are many things to consider. There is no one size that is perfect for everyone. Choosing the wrong mobility scooter could lead to issues such as a bad fit, a short battery life or even safety issues.
The first thing to consider is what your parent would like to make use of the scooter. Are they planning to use it to complete out for errands or to shop? If yes then a lightweight mobility scooter with good battery life is probably the best choice. If they intend to travel on bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels may be the best choice.
Also, keep in mind that your parent's physical condition could change in the near future, so you'll need to consider whether they'll be able to drive their mobility scooter within a few months or years. If not, they may require a change in their mobility scooter or think about the more permanent option of the power chair.
Before deciding on a final choice, you should encourage your parent to try out a variety of mobility scooters. They can feel how comfortable the seat is 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 fits the person well.
Some dealers offer refurbished scooters that have been taken care of, so ask your local dealer whether they have any of these available. You can also inquire with rental companies to find out if they have any used scooters available for auction. It is crucial to confirm the warranty and other information prior to purchasing a used scooter.
Seating
Some customers purchase scooters with two seating in order to be able to transport family or friends who want to accompany them on their journey. However, there could be privacy concerns if the people who are joining you won't be of a similar weight, as it could result in bumping skin-toskin against them, and could cause issues with personal space. If you're concerned about these concerns, it's recommended that you get a scooter with a seat behind rather than one with two seats in the front and back.
A scooter with two seats lets you to not only enjoy the companionship of a family member or friend but also save money by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and wear and tear, as well as electric by using just one scooter to operate and even share the cost of fuel.
When you are looking for a 2 seat mobility scooter, there are different seating options to consider. Certain models come with seats for the driver in the front and a passenger's seat behind, while others have both seats at the rear. Most mid-range scooters will come with this arrangement, but more advanced and premium scooters may include a front seat or a rear-only seat.
Another option is to purchase an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which permits you to easily take the scooter in and out of your vehicle. You can save time and effort by buying the scooter with a powered lift. All you need to do is put the scooter on the lift's platform and then turn on the switch. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are an important element of the vehicle and they can either make or break your riding experience. Tires that are in good shape will provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are worn out or damaged could be dangerous. It's important to check the condition of your tires frequently and replace them if they wear out.
There are three kinds of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are not flat, but they are harder to maneuver than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable scooters have foam-filled or solid tires, while most all-terrain and full-size scooters have pneumatic tires.
Pneumatic tires have an inner tube that is filled with air similar to the motorbike or bicycle tire. They're the most common type of scooter tire and they can be easily repaired.
Tires are also available with liners that fit between the outer tire and the inner tube, giving protection against punctures. The majority of manufacturers recommend a specific tire pressure for each scooter model and the recommended pressure can be found in the owner's manual. Tires last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
The majority of scooters are controlled via tillers which are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. The tiller can also include other controls, such as speed and turning indicators. Some tillers come with wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are perfect for those who have weak dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right battery in your scooter is vital. Choosing the correct battery can make your scooter run for longer. It's important to be aware that batteries can lose their 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 an indication that it is in need of replacement.
If you're looking to ensure that your battery lasts for a long time, it's worth investing in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries come with an immobile electrolyte and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a much longer lifespan than other batteries. However, they are slightly more expensive in the beginning, however their long-lasting nature makes them more cost-effective in the long run.
A lithium battery is another option. They're a bit more expensive upfront but they offer up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. They're also safe for travel in the air. They are backed by an IATA certification.
When buying a scooter battery it is important to look for the brand name and model of the mobility scooter on the label. Using a generic or offbrand battery can cause damage to the scooter and cause it to not function properly. Similarly, if you have an older battery that has been charged with a different charger, it might not function as well.
Make sure to check with the manufacturer to find out the need for a more powerful battery. They'll typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. If you are purchasing an old mobility scooter, ask the seller to provide any maintenance documents they have. These records can help you determine the condition of the battery and if it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter is an emergency aid for people who are disabled to walk due to age or illness. However, it is essential to use it correctly. Incorrect use can cause injury to the user as well as the people in the vicinity. It's important to know what to look for when buying mobility scooters to avoid this.
Make sure that the scooter comes with an operating manual that contains specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Read the manual and keep it in mind when you use the scooter.
Check the scooter's comfort and see if you can operate it easily with both hands. The scooter should be able carry the weight you intend to carry.
Check the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it is able to travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable models are less clear than full-sized scooters, and special models could have even smaller clearance.
Find out the details of the history of repairs and maintenance if you're purchasing a used scooter. The seller may have records of any repairs or replacements for parts and these records could give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it.
Consider buying a security gadget for your scooter, such as a clamp, to prevent theft. The device is connected to the wheel of the scooter and cannot be removed without tools. It's an effective deterrent against thieves.
It is a good idea to be familiar with the areas you're planning to travel through, specifically places where scooter users might have issues. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks, so you can avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting your friends.