Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Based on the model, you can find electric wheelchairs that can reach 3 to 5 mph. Some models fold and disassembled for transport and travel on airlines.
Other factors to consider are the capacity for weight, seat width, and battery life. You may also want to think about a warranty or after-sales services.
Getting Started
A portable electric wheelchair can transform your life. It allows people to explore new places as well as attend events and maintain an amount of independence that would not be possible with any other mobility option. There are certain things you need to be aware of before taking your new power wheelchair on the road.
The best method of traveling with an electric chair is by car. This way, you'll have control over how the wheelchair is loaded and secured to avoid damage. Call the airline in advance and provide them with important details regarding your wheelchair. Include the dimensions, type and location of the batteries and also how you will handle it. You might also want to attach a laminated instructions sheet to assist airline personnel manage it safely and in a safe manner.
If you don't own an automobile that can transport your electric wheelchair, then you can still utilize public transportation or ride-sharing companies like Uber or Lyft. A lot of these services provide lifts to accommodate motorized wheelchairs. You should ask ahead of time whether the service provider has enough room in its trunk for your wheelchair.
Renting a scooter or wheelchair at your destination is another option. This is a fantastic opportunity to try out an electric chair for the first time and make sure it's comfortable. Many rental locations provide a free demonstration to help you become familiar with the model before purchasing.
Before your first outing in your new electric wheelchair take a few minutes to examine it thoroughly for any issues that require to be addressed. This could be batteries that need to be charged, a malfunctioning or damaged parts or tires that are scuffed. You should address any problems immediately to avoid them affecting your driving experience.
Label your wheelchair with the description of the model and serial number. Also, add your name and phone number. This will help if your wheelchair is ever lost in transit and could speed up the process of returning it to you.
Safety First
It is crucial to know the safety features of your electric wheelchair, and follow best practices before traveling. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. These safety measures include
Regular battery charging : A fully charged battery can prevent unexpected failures on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Condition: Make sure your tires are in good condition for optimal performance and safety.
Maneuverability: Make sure that your power chair can move well in tight areas. This includes turning radius, front and rear stability as and electrical connections.
Make sure your batteries are charged during the night. This reduces the degradation of batteries and extends the life of your battery.
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 new environments until you are confident enough to operate it on your own.
Air Travel: Airline personnel may ask you questions regarding your wheelchair's dimensions and battery type the battery is made of, how it's handled, and the weight it carries. Make your answers ready in advance so you can respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Select a rideshare service that lets you take your power wheelchair with you. This will give you the space to fit your wheelchair, and you'll also be able to plan more flexiblely your transportation.
Bus and Train Travel by Train and Bus. Buses and train cars equipped with wheelchair-accessible seating are the best option for long distance travel. Some cities and states also offer accessible train and bus systems for wheelchair-bound passengers.
If you plan to use public transportation it's a good idea to call the company prior to your trip to confirm if they accommodate wheelchair users. If possible, you could also request accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals. You can be assured that your accommodation is ready for you when you arrive, and that your stay will be trouble-free. Additionally, consider bringing an ounce of ointment for muscle pain or cream to ease any soreness that may result from prolonged sitting in your power wheelchair.
Transport
Anyone who needs an electric wheelchair with a portability will find it easier to move around. It allows you to explore new places and enjoy family vacations without having to worry about accessibility or having to locate parking spots. It also gives you the freedom to do your around and complete your daily tasks without relying on anyone else to take you there.
However when it comes to transporting a power wheelchair, it is important to consider the weight and size of the wheelchair and the vehicle you'll use to transport it. If you're using a smaller car, minivan or truck, it's likely that your wheelchair can fit inside the vehicle with no problem. You may also be able fold the rear seats to create more space in some vehicles.
If you own a big vehicle, a ramp or lift is an ideal alternative to move the mobility device into and out of your vehicle. Various brands, including Pride and EZ Lift provide wheelchair lifts. These lifts will allow you to quickly and safely raise an electric chair that weighs a lot into a van, full-sized SUV or trunk of your preference.
Alternately, you could utilize a trailer for transporting your electric wheelchair. This will require an automobile equipped with a hitch as well as electrical wiring for your trailer's lights, turn signals and brakes.
You should also keep in mind that you will need to regularly maintain your wheelchair. You'll need to have the wheelchair inspected and serviced by a trained technician to ensure it's in good condition to be used and transported. The last thing you want is that your wheelchair gets damaged during transport or when it is being used on a daily basis. This is why it's crucial to schedule regular maintenance for your electric wheelchair that is portable. This will safeguard your investment and keep your electric wheelchair in great condition for years to come. A well-maintained chair can allow you to live your life to the fullest while maintaining a high level of independence.
Storage
The ideal place to keep your electric wheelchair is in a climate controlled space. Extreme temperatures can harm the electrical wiring of the chair and drain its battery. Keep your wheelchair clear of moisture and dust that could damage it. If MyMobilityScooters intend to store it outside, be sure you have an enclosed shed or garage with an enclosure. This will protect it from weather. If you must keep your power wheelchair in a climate controlled location, remove the batteries and store them separately. This will prevent them from freezing while in storage, and slowing your chair down when you need it.
You can use a special bag designed for wheelchairs that will fit the electric chair fold-down inside the tiniest trunk of a car. This is especially useful for long-distance trips like vacations or visits to family. It is important to know the dimensions of the wheelchair once it is disassembled prior to choosing a bag for travel. Some models can fold into multiple pieces that can fit in the back of a compact sedan or small SUV, while others are designed as a single piece.
If you're planning on flying in the near future, it's a good idea to contact your airline in advance to determine if they have specific rules and regulations regarding transporting mobility aids. For example, some airlines only allow an electric wheelchair if it's been folded up and its batteries removed. Many of our most well-known mobility aids such as the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair include lithium batteries designed for airline travel. If you decide to take your power wheelchair on board lithium batteries can be checked in or taken in as carry-ons based on the policies of the airline.
Electric travel wheelchairs are an excellent option to have fun and move around. We have a wide selection of the top-rated wheelchairs as well as mobility scooters so you can choose the right model that fits your needs and your lifestyle. Try various models and speak to a healthcare professional or mobility specialist before making your final purchase. Whether you're going for an afternoon stroll in the park or taking an Uber or Lyft to meet with friends, a portable electric wheelchair will help you stay mobile and independent.