Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs can be found in models that reach speeds of 3 to 5 mph. Some models can be folded and disassembled for easy transportation and airline travel.
Take into consideration the seat's width and weight capacity as well as battery life. You might also think about a warranty or after-sales services.
Getting Started
A electric wheelchair that can be portable could be life-changing. It allows people to explore new places as well as attend events and maintain an independence that wouldn't be possible with other mobility options. There are a few things you should know before you take your new power wheelchair on the road.
The most convenient method to travel with an electric chair is by car. You can control how it is loaded and secured, preventing damage. If you decide to fly, be sure to contact the airline in advance and provide them with important information regarding your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, the type of batteries and how it should be handled. You might also want to attach a laminated instructions sheet to help the staff at the airport manage it safely and in a safe manner.
If you don't have a vehicle to transport your electric wheelchair, you can still take public transportation or ride-share companies like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services have lifts that can accommodate wheelchairs with motors. However, you should be certain to inquire with the service provider ahead of time if they have enough trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Renting a scooter or wheelchair at your destination is an alternative option. This is a great way to test an electric chair for the first time and ensure that it's comfortable. Many rental places offer a no-cost demo so you can get familiar with the model and how it operates prior to making your purchase.
Take a moment to look over your brand new electric chair prior to you use it for the first time. This could include a loose part or a battery that's not fully charged, or tires that are scuffed. If My Mobility Scooters spot any issues, make sure to take care of them immediately so that they don't hinder your experience on the road.
Lastly, be sure to label your power wheelchair with your name, contact number, as well as a description of the wheelchair's model and serial number. This will help you if your power wheelchair gets lost during transport and could help speed the process of getting it back to you.
Safety First
It's important that you understand the safety features of your electric wheelchair and follow the best practices prior to traveling. This ensures a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. These safety measures include
Regular Battery Charging : A fully charged battery can prevent unexpected failures while driving.
Wheelchair Tire Condition: Make sure that your tires are in good shape for maximum performance and safety.
Maneuverability: Make sure your chair is able to move well in tight areas. This includes turning radius as well as front and rear stability, and electrical connections.
Make sure your batteries are charged during the night. This will minimize battery degradation and extend its life.
Traveling in unfavorable terrain or Weather: Using a power chair on extreme terrain and weather can cause damage to the device. It's best to have someone to assist you in unfamiliar environments until you feel confident enough to operate it on your own.
Air Travel: Staff at the airport might inquire about your wheelchair size, dimensions and battery type the best way to use it, and its weight. It's a good idea to prepare answers ahead of time so that you can answer these questions quickly and confidently.
Rideshare: Ensure you choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your electric wheelchair along. This will give you the space to fit your wheelchair, and you'll also have more flexibility when scheduling your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel: Trains and buses with seats specifically designed for people in wheelchairs are the best options for long distances of travel. In addition, some cities and states have bus and train systems that are accessible to wheelchair-bound passengers.
If you do plan to take public transportation, it's recommended to contact the company prior to your trip to confirm that they will accommodate wheelchair users. Also, you should ask for accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals, if you can. You can be assured that your accommodations will be ready for you when you arrive and that your stay will be smooth. Additionally, consider bringing a bottle of muscle pain ointment or cream to treat any soreness that may result from prolonged sitting in your power wheelchair.
Transport
Anyone who requires an electric wheelchair that is portable will find it so much easier to get around. It can help you enjoy family vacations as well as explore new destinations without worrying about accessibility. You can complete errands, perform your everyday tasks and more without relying on anyone other than yourself.
When transporting a wheelchair you must consider the weight and size of the wheelchair and also the vehicle you'll use to transport it. If you own a small vehicle, like a minivan or truck you are likely to find that your wheelchair will fit into the vehicle without a problem. It is also possible to fold the rear seats to create more space in some vehicles.
If you own a big vehicle, a wheelchair ramp or lift is a great option to move the mobility device into and out of your vehicle. There are a variety of brands, such as Pride and EZ Lift provide wheelchair lifts. These lifts can help you quickly and safely lift a heavy electric wheelchair into a trunk, van or full sized SUV of your preference.
Alternately, you could use a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This option requires a vehicle with a hitch and electrical wiring to the trailer's brakes, turn signals, and lights.
It's also important to keep in your mind that your wheelchair will require regular maintenance services. It is important to have your wheelchair checked and serviced by certified technicians to ensure that it is in good working order to be used and transported. You do not want your wheelchair to be damaged during transport or everyday use. This is the reason it's so important to schedule regular professional maintenance services for your electric wheelchair that is portable. This will protect your investment, and help keep your electric wheelchair in great shape for many years. A well-maintained chair will help you live your life to the fullest while maintaining a high degree of independence.
Storage
The ideal location to keep your electric wheelchair in storage is in a climate controlled space. Extreme temperatures will damage the chair's electrical wiring and deplete its battery. Keep your chair free of dust and water. Both could cause damage to it. If you plan to store it outside, be sure you have a shed or garage that has the cover. This will shield it from weather. If you need to store your power chair in a non-climate-controlled space, take the batteries out and store them separately. This will prevent them from freezing and slowing your chair when you need it.
If you are traveling by car, you can use a special wheelchair travel bag that fits an electric wheelchair that folds down inside the smallest trunk space. This is particularly useful when you are traveling for a long time, like vacations or visits to family. It's important to find out the dimensions of the wheelchair when disassembled prior to choosing a bag for travel. Some models can fold in multiple pieces that can be tucked into the back of a compact sedan or small SUV, while others are made as one piece.
Contact your airline prior to you take off to find out whether there are any specific rules or regulations governing the transport of mobility aids. Certain airlines, for instance permit you to bring powered chairs on board if the battery is removed and the chair is folded. Some of our most popular mobility aids, such as the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair have lithium batteries that are designed for airline travel. If you choose to bring your power wheelchair with you on the plane lithium batteries can be checked in or taken in as carry-ons based on the airline's policies.
An electric mobility chair is an excellent way to move around and enjoy your life to the fullest. We have a broad range of top-rated wheelchairs and scooters, so you will be able to find the perfect model for your lifestyle and requirements. Make sure you test various models and speak to an expert in healthcare or a mobility specialist before making your final purchase. Whether you're going for a stroll in the park or taking an Uber or Lyft to meet up with friends, a portable electric wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent.