Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Based on the model You can choose from electric wheelchairs that range from 3 to 5 mph. Some models fold and disassembled for transport and airline travel.
Other features to consider include the weight capacity along with the seat width, as well as battery life. You might also look into a warranty or post-sales services.
Getting Started
A electric wheelchair that is portable can be life-changing. It allows people to explore new areas, attend events and maintain an amount of independence that would not be possible with any other mobility device. However, there are some things you should know before you can take your new electric chair on the road.
If you want to be safe, the best option to travel with an electric wheelchair is to take it by car. You can regulate how it is loaded and secured, thus avoiding damage. Contact the airline ahead of time and provide them with the necessary information regarding your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, type of batteries and how it should be handled. You might want to include a laminated instructions sheet to assist airline personnel in a safe and proper manner when handling the item.
If you don't have the vehicle that can carry your electric wheelchair, then you can still utilize public transportation or use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. Many of these services have lifts that can accommodate motorized wheelchairs. However, be certain to inquire with the service provider prior to time if they have enough trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Another option is to lease the scooter or wheelchair at the point of departure. This is a fantastic opportunity to test an electric chair for the first time and ensure that it's comfortable. A lot of wheelchair and scooter rental locations provide a free demonstration so that you can become familiar with the vehicle and the way it drives prior to making your purchase.
Spend a few minutes to inspect your new electric chair prior to you take it out for the first time. My Mobility Scooters can include a loose part or a battery that's not charged or tires that are damaged. You must address any issues immediately to avoid them affecting your driving experience.
Label your wheelchair with the description of the model and serial number. Also, include your name and phone number. This will assist if your wheelchair is ever lost in transit and will speed up the process of getting it back to you.
Safety First
Before using an electric wheelchair, it's crucial to be aware of the safety features that are built into the device and stick to the best practices. This ensures an enjoyable and safe mobility experience. These security measures include:
Regular battery charging: Having a full battery will prevent unexpected delays and failures on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Make sure that your wheelchair tires are in great condition to ensure maximum performance and safety.
Maneuverability: Make sure your chair is able to move well in tight spaces. This includes turning radius, rear and front stability as and electrical connections.
Make sure your batteries are charged during the night. This helps prevent battery degradation and extends the life of your battery.
Traveling on Unfavorable Weather or Terrain: Operating your power wheelchair in extreme weather and terrain can cause damage to the device. It is recommended to have someone help you use the device until you are comfortable.
Air Travel: Staff at the airport might ask questions regarding your wheelchair and its dimensions, battery type and how to maneuver it, and even its weight. Make sure you have your answers prepared so you can respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Select a rideshare service that allows you to take your power wheelchair with you. This will provide you with an ample back seat 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 with disabilities are the ideal options for long distances of travel. Additionally, a few cities and states have bus and train systems that are fully accessible to wheelchair users.
If you are planning to take public transportation, it's recommended to contact the company ahead of time to confirm if they offer wheelchair-friendly accommodations. Also, you should ask for accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals if feasible. You can be sure that your accommodations will be ready when you arrive, and your stay will be smooth. Bring with you an ointment or cream bottle an ointment to ease any muscle pain that may result from long-term sitting in a wheelchair.
Transport
A portable electric wheelchair can make life so much easier for those who requires one. It allows you to explore new places and enjoy family vacations without having to worry about accessibility or having to locate parking spots. It can also give you the freedom to run routine errands and other activities without having to depend on anyone else to take you there.
However, when it comes to the transportation of a power wheelchair, you need be aware of the weight and size of the wheelchair as well as the vehicle you'll use to haul it. If you're using a smaller vehicle, minivan or truck, it's likely that your wheelchair will fit into the vehicle with no problem. In some cases, you may be able fold the rear seats of your vehicle for more space, too.
If you own a big vehicle, a ramp for wheelchairs or lift is a good option to transfer the mobility device into and out of your vehicle. Various brands, including Pride and EZ Lift, offer wheelchair lifts. These lifts will allow you to quickly and safely lift a heavy electric wheelchair into a trunk, van or full-sized SUV of your choice.
You can also make use of a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This requires the use of a vehicle with a hitch and electrical wiring for your trailer's lights, turn signals, and brakes.
It's important to keep in mind that your wheelchair will require regular maintenance services. You'll want to have the wheelchair inspected and serviced by a trained technician to ensure it's in good working order to be used and moved. The final thing you want is for your wheelchair to become damaged while transporting or being used on a regular basis. This is why it's critical to schedule regular professional maintenance services for your portable electric wheelchair. This will safeguard your investment and ensure that your wheelchair is in top condition for years to come. A well-maintained wheelchair can allow you to live your life to the fullest while maintaining a high level of independence.
Storage
The best place to keep your electric wheelchair is a climate-controlled area. Extreme temperatures can harm the chair's wiring and deplete its batteries. Keep your wheelchair clear of moisture and dust that could damage it. If you plan to store it outside, make sure you have a shed or garage that has a cover. This will protect it from the elements. If you have to keep your electric wheelchair in an un-climate controlled space, take its batteries out and keep them in a separate place. This will stop them from freezing and slowing down your chair when you need it.
You can use a special travel bag for a wheelchair that can fit the electric chair fold-down inside the smallest car trunk. This is especially useful for long-distance trips like holidays and visits to family. It is important to know the dimensions of the wheelchair once it is disassembled prior to choosing the right travel bag. Some models are designed to fold into multiple pieces that fit into 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 consult with your airline in advance to determine if they have specific rules and regulations for transporting mobility aids. Certain airlines, like, only allow the use of powered chairs on board when the battery has been removed and it is folded. Many of our most well-known mobility aids, such as the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair have lithium batteries that are designed for airline travel. If you decide to bring your power wheelchair with you on the plane, lithium batteries can either be checked in or carried in as carry-ons based on the airline's policies.
An electric travel wheelchair is an excellent way to move around and live your life to the fullest. We offer a large range of top-rated wheelchairs as well as scooters, so you can find the perfect model that fits your lifestyle and needs. Before making a final decision you should test several models and talk to an expert in mobility or a medical professional. Whether you're going for a stroll through the park or taking an Uber or Lyft to meet friends, a portable electric chair can help you remain mobile and independent.
