Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter is an investment that can be costly. Fortunately private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare frequently cover the cost of a scooter when it's medically required.
To ensure they buy the correct model, those who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of all they can about scooters and what alternatives available to them. Buyers must first be aware of their own needs and objectives.
What to Consider
There are a variety of factors to take into consideration when selecting the right mobility device. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all mobility scooter. The wrong mobility could cause problems such as a poor fit, a low battery life, or even safety issues.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Do buy used scooters near me want to make use of it to run errands or go shopping? If so, a light mobility device with a long battery life is the best choice. If they intend to travel on rough or bumpy terrain, a four wheel scooter with bigger wheels could be the best choice.
Be aware that the physical condition of your parent may change in a few years. You will need to determine if they'll be able to operate their mobility scooter after. If not, then they may need to think about upgrading their scooter or finding a permanent solution like a power wheelchair.
Before deciding on a final choice it is important to encourage your child to try various mobility scooters. They can test how comfortable the seat is and whether they are capable of reaching the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure that they feel comfortable and that the scooter fits the person well.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies to find out if they have any second-hand scooters for auction. If you do buy an used scooter, be sure to verify the warranty and other information to make sure that you are getting what you paid for.
Seating
Some people purchase scooters with two seats in order to be able to transport family or friends who wish to join them on a trip. There could be privacy issues if the people who will be with you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they'll be bumping into each other and causing issues with personal space. If you're worried about these issues, it's recommended that you get 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 be a part of a family member or friend but also save money by not having to purchase two mobility vehicles. By using only one scooter, you will save on electricity and wear and tear. You can even share the cost of fuel.
There are many seating options to choose from when shopping for a two-seat mobility scooter. Some models have an driver's seat in the front and a passenger seat behind, whereas others include both seats at the rear. Most mid-range scooters will feature this arrangement, but more advanced and premium scooters may come with one seat in the front or a rear seat with a single seat.
You can also purchase one with a power-operated lifting system. This lets you easily get the scooter into and out of your vehicle. You can save time and effort by buying a scooter with a power-operated lift. All you need to do is place the scooter on the lift's platform and then turn on the switch. Then you can drive away and when you're ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on a mobility scooter are an important element of the vehicle and they can make or break your riding experience. A set of quality tires will provide a smooth, comfortable ride, however old or damaged tires can be dangerous. It is essential to check the condition of your tires regularly and replace them if they get worn out.
There are several kinds of scooter tires that are available: solid, pneumatic, and foam filled. Solid and foam-filled tires are never flat, but they are more difficult to maneuver 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.
The tube inside pneumatic tires is filled with air as bicycle or motorbike tires. They're the most commonly used type of scooter tire and they're easily repaired.
There are also tires with liners that can be fitted between the outer tire and the inner tube, giving protection against punctures. The owner's manual will show you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer.
Many scooters are steered using tillers, which are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels either left or right. The tiller can also include other controls, like speed and turning indicators. Some tillers come with wraparound handles also known as delta tillers which are ideal for people with limited hand dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the right type of battery in your scooter is crucial. The right battery will make your scooter run for longer. It is important to keep in your mind that batteries lose performance with 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's in need of replacement.
If you'd like to ensure your battery lasts for a long time, then it is worth investing in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they feature an airtight design and an impermeable electrolyte. They also have a longer lifespan than other types of batteries. However, they are slightly more expensive upfront, although their longevity makes them affordable in the long term.
Another option is to opt for a lithium battery. These are a bit more expensive upfront however they can offer up to 10 times the lifespan of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they're safe for air travel. They have an IATA certification.
When buying the battery for your scooter, it's important to look for the brand name and model of the mobility scooter on the label. Using generic or offbrand batteries can damage your mobility scooter and cause it not to work correctly. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was charged using another charger, it may not perform as well.
Certain scooters require stronger batteries than others, so make sure to inquire with the manufacturer. They'll usually have a list with compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have documents of maintenance records when you purchase a used mobility device. These records can help you determine whether the battery is in good condition and if it's recently been maintained.
Safety
A scooter can be a lifesaver for those who struggle to walk due to age or illness, but only if it's operated properly. A mistake in use could cause injury to the user or those around them. To avoid this, it's essential to understand what to look for in a mobility scooter before making the purchase.
The manual should contain specific information about the model like safety guidelines and maintenance schedules. Keep the manual in your pocket for reference when you use the scooter.
Test the comfort of the scooter and determine if you're able to operate it comfortably with both hands. The scooter must also be able to handle the amount of weight you'll need to carry.
Verify the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure that it is able to travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable models are less clear than full-sized scooters, and specialty models may have an even lower clearance.
If you're considering purchasing a used scooter, ask about the history of its maintenance and repair. These documents could provide valuable information on the condition of a scooter before you buy it.
Consider buying the scooter's security device such as a wheel clamp, to stop theft. The device is fixed to the wheel of the scooter and can't be removed without tools. It's a great deterrent against thieves.
It's also a good idea to be familiar with the areas that you plan to travel in, especially areas that aren't accommodating to scooter users. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so you are able to avoid these areas while shopping or visiting your friends.