Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Depending on the model, you can find electric wheelchairs that can reach 3 to 5 mph. Some models fold up and disassemble for simple transportation and travel on airlines.
Other aspects to consider include the capacity for weight as well as the seat width and battery life. You might also look into a warranty or post-sales services.
Getting Started
A portable electric wheelchair could change your life. It lets people explore new places or attend events and maintain an independence that's not possible with other mobility options. However, there are some things to consider before you take your new power chair out on the road.
The most efficient method of traveling with an electric chair is by car. This way, you have control over how the wheelchair is loaded and secured to avoid damage. Call the airline in advance and provide them with the necessary information about your wheelchair. Include the dimensions, type and location of batteries, as well as the best way to handle it. electric automatic wheelchair might also want to attach a laminated instruction sheet to assist airline personnel manage it safely and in a safe manner.
If you don't have an automobile that can transport your electric wheelchair, you can still use public transportation or ride-sharing companies like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services have lifts that can be used to accommodate wheelchairs. You should inquire beforehand if the service provider has enough room in its trunk for your wheelchair.
Renting a scooter or a wheelchair at the location you are visiting is a different option. This is a fantastic opportunity to try an electric chair for the first time, and ensure that it's comfortable. Many rental facilities offer free demonstrations to help you become familiar with the model before purchasing.
Before your first outing in your new electric wheelchair take a few minutes to thoroughly inspect it for any issues that need to be taken care of. This could include batteries that need to be charged, missing or loose parts or tires being scuffed. It is important to address any issues immediately to prevent them from affecting your driving experience.
Also, be sure to label your power wheelchair with your name, contact number, and a description of the model and serial number. This will aid you in case your power chair is lost during transport and could help speed the process of getting it back to you.
Safety First
Before using an electric wheelchair, it's important to know the safety features that are built into the device and adhere to the best practices. This will help you have a safe mobility experience. This includes
Regular Battery Charging: A fully charged battery can prevent unexpected problems and delays on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Make sure that your wheelchair tires are in excellent condition for optimal performance and security.
Maneuverability: Make sure that your power chair is able to move through tight spaces. This includes turning radius as well as rear and front stability as well as electrical connections.
Keep your batteries charged overnight. This reduces the degradation of batteries and extends its life.
Traveling on Unfavorable Weather or Terrain: Using your power wheelchair in harsh conditions and terrain could cause damage to the device. It is best to have a person help you operate the device in new conditions until you're comfortable enough to use it alone.
Air Travel: The staff at the airline may ask questions regarding your wheelchair size, dimensions, battery type and how to maneuver it, and even its weight. It's a good idea prepare answers ahead of time so that you can respond to these questions quickly and confidently.
Rideshare: Ensure you choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your power wheelchair along. This will give you a spacious backseat to accommodate your wheelchair, and you'll also have more flexibility in scheduling your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel: Trains and buses with designated seats for passengers who are wheelchair-bound are the best alternatives for long distance travel. Additionally, certain cities and states have bus and train systems that are accessible to wheelchair users.
If you plan to use public transportation it's recommended to contact the company ahead of time to confirm if they accommodate wheelchair users. If possible, you could also request accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals. This will allow you to ensure that your accommodation will be fully prepared for your arrival and your trip will be smooth and easy. Consider bringing along cream or an ointment to ease any muscle aches that result from long periods of sitting in a power wheelchair.
Transport
Anyone who needs a portable electric wheelchair will find it much easier to get around. It allows you to discover new destinations and enjoy family holidays without worrying about accessibility or having to find an area to park. You can go on errands and complete your daily chores and more without having to depend on anyone else.
However when it comes to the transportation of a power wheelchair, it is important to take into consideration the weight and size of the wheelchair, as well as the vehicle you'll use to haul it. If you have a smaller vehicle, like minivans or trucks you are likely to find that your wheelchair can fit inside the vehicle without a problem. It is also possible to fold the rear seats back to create more space in some vehicles.
If you own a large vehicle, a wheelchair ramp or lift is an ideal option to move the mobility device in and out of your vehicle. There are a range of vehicle lift solutions for your wheelchair from different brands including Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts will allow you to quickly and safely lift the weight of your electric wheelchair into a trunk, van or full sized SUV of your preference.
You can also utilize a trailer for transporting your electric wheelchair. This option requires a vehicle that has a hitch and electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals, and lights.
It's also important to keep in your mind that your wheelchair will require regular maintenance. You'll want to have the wheelchair checked and maintained by a trained technician to ensure that it's in good shape to be used and moved. You do not want your wheelchair to be damaged during transport or regular use. This is why it's critical to schedule regular maintenance services for your electric wheelchair that is portable. This will protect your investment and keep your electric wheelchair in top condition for a long time. A well-maintained wheelchair will allow you to live your life to the fullest, while maintaining your high level of independence.
Stores
The ideal place to store your electric wheelchair is a climate-controlled space. Extreme temperatures can damage the chair's electrical wiring and deplete its battery. Make sure your chair is protected from moisture and dust and dirt, which could also harm it. If you are storing it outside, be sure to use a shed or garage that has an enclosure. This will shield it from the elements. If you must store your power chair in a climate-controlled space, remove the batteries and keep them in a separate place. This will keep them from freezing and slowing down your chair when you need it.
If you are traveling by car, you can utilize a wheelchair travel bag that fits an electric wheelchair that folds down inside the smallest trunk space. This is especially useful when you are traveling for a long time, like vacations, or when visiting relatives. It's important to find out the dimensions of the wheelchair when disassembled prior to selecting a bag for travel. Some models can fold in multiple pieces that can fit in the back of a compact sedan or small SUV, whereas others are constructed as a single piece.
If you're planning on flying and need to travel with a wheelchair, it's best to contact your airline in advance to see whether they have any specific rules and regulations for transporting mobility aids. For instance certain airlines will only allow an electric wheelchair in the event that it's been folded and its batteries removed. Some of our most popular mobility aids like the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair have lithium batteries that are specifically designed for travel on airlines. If you choose to bring your power wheelchair with you on the plane, lithium batteries can either be checked in or brought in as carry-ons based on the policy of the airline.
A mobility scooter that is electric is a great way to move around and enjoy your life more fully. We have a wide range of top-rated wheelchairs as well as scooters, so you can find the ideal model for your lifestyle and requirements. Before making a final decision, try out several models and speak with an expert in mobility or a healthcare professional. Whether you're going for a stroll through the park or taking an Uber or Lyft to meet with friends, a portable electric wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent.