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 frequently cover the cost of a scooter when it's medically required.
Mobility-impaired individuals must be aware of various types of scooters available to them. Buyers should first understand their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the best mobility scooter, there are a variety of aspects to take into consideration. There is no any one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility can cause problems such as a poor fit, low battery life or even safety concerns.
The first thing to think about is what your parents want to utilize the scooter for. Do they need to go shopping or run errands? Or just take it for rides around the neighborhood? If so then a light mobility scooter with good battery life is likely to be the best option. If they plan to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheeler with larger tires may be a better choice.
Also, take into consideration that your parent's physical condition might change in the future, so you'll be able to determine if they'll be able to drive their mobility scooter within a few months or years. If not, they may require a new mobility scooter or think about a more permanent option like a power chair.
Before making a final decision, you should encourage your parent to try various mobility scooters. They can test out how comfortable the seat is and determine if they are able to reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side to make sure that the scooter fits their needs and is comfortable.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies if they have used scooters. If you do decide to purchase a used scooter, you need to check the warranty and other information to make sure that you're getting what you purchased.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats in the hopes of being able to carry friends or family members who would like to join them on their journeys. However, there can be privacy concerns if those accompanying you are not of a similar weight, as this could mean bumping skin-to-skin against them. It could also create problems with personal space. If you're worried about these concerns, it's recommended that you opt for a scooter with a seat behind rather than one which has two seats in the front and back.
A scooter with two seats lets you to not only enjoy the company of a relative or friend, but also to cut costs by not having to buy two separate mobility vehicles. With just one scooter, you can reduce the use of the cost of electricity and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
If you're looking for a two seat mobility scooter, there are a variety of choices of seating options. Certain models have the driver's seat at the front, and the passenger seat behind. Some models have both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range and premium scooters come with this setup, however, some models may have only 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. You can save time and effort by buying an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift. All you have to do is put the scooter on the lift platform and then turn on the switch. You can then drive off and when you are ready to return, just reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels of a mobility scooter can alter or ruin the experience of riding. A good set of tires will give you an easy, comfortable ride, however old or damaged ones can be dangerous. You should inspect your tires frequently and replace them if they are worn.
There are a few different types of scooter tires available: pneumatic, solid and foam-filled. Foam-filled and solid tires will are never flat however they are more difficult to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most travel/portable scooters come with foam-filled or solid tires, whereas the majority of all-terrain and full-size scooters use pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air, as bicycle or motorbike tires. These are the most common type and can be repaired easily.
There are also tires with liners that fit between the outer tire and the inner tube, offering protection against punctures. The majority of manufacturers recommend a specific tire pressure for each scooter model, and the recommended value is found in the owner's manual. Tires last longer if they are filled to this pressure.
Many scooters are steered using tillers that are T-shaped columns which turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls, such as speed and turning signals may be on the tiller too. Some tillers come with wraparound handles called delta tillers. These are perfect for those who have weak dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery for your scooter is crucial. The right battery will make your scooter last longer. It's also a good idea to keep in mind that batteries may lose performance over time. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as previously, it might be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a good option if you wish to have your battery to last a long time. These batteries come with an immobile electrolyte and are airtight making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer lifespan than other batteries. However, they're more expensive upfront, although their long-lasting nature makes them more economical in the long run.
Another option is to choose a lithium battery. They're a bit more expensive in the beginning, but they can provide up to 10 times the life span of lead-acid batteries. Additionally, they are safe for air travel and are available with a certificate from the IATA.
It is crucial to examine the label on the battery on your scooter to find the model and the brand name. The use of offbrand or generic batteries could damage your mobility scooter and cause it to function effectively. Also, if you own an older battery that was charged with a different charger, it might not function similarly.
Certain scooters require stronger batteries than others, so be sure to inquire with the manufacturer. Typically, they'll have an inventory of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have documents of maintenance records in the event that you purchase a used mobility device. These records can aid in determining the condition of the battery and whether it has been serviced recently.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who struggle to walk because of age or illness but only if operated properly. If it's not used correctly, it can cause injury to the user as well as those who are around them. To avoid this, it's vital to understand what to look for in a mobility scooter before making the purchase.
The manual should include model-specific information like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your possession and read it handy when you are using the scooter.
Test the scooter's comfort and determine if you're able to operate it comfortably with both hands. The scooter should be able to carry the weight you intend to carry.
Examine the ground clearance to ensure the scooter is able to go over bumps, obstacles and more. The models that are portable or travel-friendly have less clearance than full-sized scooters, and some models with special features may have even lower clearance.
Check the details of the history of repairs and maintenance when you purchase a second-hand scooter. The seller might have records of any repairs or parts replacements, and these documents can give you a valuable insight into the condition of the scooter before you purchase it.
Consider buying the scooter's security device like a wheel clamp, to stop theft. The device is connected to the wheel of the scooter, and cannot be removed without tools. It's an effective deterrent against thieves.
scooter to buy near me to familiarize yourself with the areas that you plan on travelling in, particularly areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so that you can avoid these areas when going shopping or visiting your friends.