Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Depending on the model depending on the model, you can find electric wheelchairs that range from 3 to 5 mph. Some models fold down for easy transportation and airline travel.
Other aspects to consider include the weight capacity along with the seat width, as well as battery life. It is also possible to look for an after-sales warranty and warranty.
Getting Started
The decision to purchase a portable electric wheelchair can be life-changing. It lets people travel to new places as well as attend events and maintain a degree of independence that wouldn't be possible with a different mobility device. There are some things you need to be aware of before taking your new power wheelchair out on the road.
The best choice for traveling with an electric wheelchair is to travel by car. This way, you can control how it's loaded and secured to prevent damage. Contact the airline ahead of time and give them important information about your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, the type of batteries and how it will be handled. It is also possible to attach a laminated instruction sheet to help the staff at the airport to handle the battery safely and correctly.
If you don't have a vehicle that can transport your electric wheelchair, you can use public transportation or ride-share services such as Uber or Lyft. A lot of these services provide lifts that can be used to accommodate wheelchairs. However, you should be sure to inquire with the service provider in advance whether they have the trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Renting a scooter or wheelchair at the location you are visiting is a different option. This is a great opportunity to try an electric chair for the first time, and make sure it's comfortable. Many rental locations provide a free demonstration so that you can become familiar with the vehicle and the way it drives prior to purchasing.
Before your first outing in your new electric wheelchair take some time to examine it thoroughly for any issues that need to be addressed. This can include a loose part or a battery that's not fully charged, or tires that are scuffed. If you spot any issues, be sure to address them immediately so that they don't impact your experience on the road.
Label your power wheelchair with a description of its model and serial number. Also, add your name and phone number. This will help you if your power chair is lost in transit and will make it easier to get it back to you.
Safety First
It is crucial to know the safety features of your electric wheelchair and follow the most effective practices prior to travelling. This helps foster a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. This includes
Regular Battery Charging : A fully charged battery can prevent unexpected failures while driving.
Wheelchair Tire Condition: Make sure that your tires are in good condition for optimal performance and security.
Maneuverability: Make sure your chair is able to maneuver well in tight areas. This includes turning radius, rear and front stability, as and electrical connections.
Keep your batteries charged overnight. This helps prevent battery degradation and extends its life.
In unfavorable terrains or weather conditions: Using a power chair on a rough terrain or in harsh weather can cause damage to the device. It is recommended to have someone to assist you in new environments until you are confident enough to operate it alone.
Air Travel: Airline personnel might ask you questions regarding your wheelchair's dimensions and battery type and how it should be handled, and its weight. Make sure you have your answers prepared so that you can respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Choose a rideshare that lets you take your power wheelchair with you. This will provide you with the space to fit your wheelchair, and you'll have more flexibility when scheduling your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel by Train and Bus. Train cars and buses with wheelchair-accessible seats are the best option for long distance travel. Additionally, certain cities and states have bus and train systems that are completely accessible to wheelchair users.
It's a smart idea to confirm with the company that they can accommodate wheelchair users if you plan to travel on public transport. In addition, you should inquire about accessible accommodations in resorts or hotels if you can. This means you can be certain that your accommodations will be fully prepared for your arrival and your visit will be hassle-free. Also, think about bringing a bottle of ointment to treat muscle pain or cream to ease any soreness that may result from sitting for long periods in your power wheelchair.
Transport
A portable electric wheelchair can make life much easier for anyone who needs one. It will allow you to discover new destinations and enjoy family holidays without worrying about accessibility or having to locate a place to park. You can complete errands, complete your daily chores and more without having to depend on anyone other than yourself.
However when it comes to transporting a power wheelchair, you need to take into consideration the weight and size of the wheelchair as well as the vehicle you'll be using to haul it. If you're driving a compact vehicle, minivan or truck, it's likely that the wheelchair will fit inside of the vehicle without issue. You might also be able to fold the rear seats to make more space in certain vehicles.
If you have a larger vehicle, then it's recommended to consider a wheelchair lift or ramp as an option for transferring the mobility device in and out of your car. You can find a variety of vehicle lift solutions for your wheelchair from different brands, including Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts can help you quickly and safely raise the weighty electric chair into a van, a full-sized SUV, or trunk of your preference.
Alternately, you could utilize a trailer for transporting your electric wheelchair. This will require the use of a vehicle equipped 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 need to have trained technicians inspect and service the device on a regular basis to ensure it remains in good working order for transport and general use. The most important thing you'd like to avoid is for your wheelchair to be damaged during transport or when being used on a daily basis. It is essential to schedule professional maintenance on your portable electric wheelchair. electric scooters will safeguard your investment, and help keep your electric wheelchair in good shape for many years. A well-maintained chair will enable you to live life to the fullest, while maintaining a high level of independence.
Stores
The best location to keep your electric wheelchair is in a climate-controlled area. Extreme temperatures can cause damage to the wiring of the chair and deplete its batteries. Make sure your wheelchair is free of dust and moisture. Both can damage it. If you keep it outdoors, you should use garages or sheds with a cover to shield it from the elements. If you must store your power chair in a non-climate controlled space, take the batteries out and keep them in a separate place. This will stop them from freezing in storage and slowing your chair down when you need it.
You can use a special bag for traveling with a wheelchair that will fit a folding electric chair in even the smallest trunks of cars. This is especially helpful for long-distance trips like vacations or visits to relatives. It is essential to determine the dimensions of the wheelchair once it is disassembled prior to choosing a travel bag. Some models can be folded into multiple pieces that can be tucked into the trunk of a compact car or a small SUV. Others are made in one piece.
Contact your airline prior to you fly to find out whether there are any specific rules or regulations governing the transportation of mobility aids. For example certain airlines will allow you to take powered wheelchairs on board when it's been folded and its batteries removed. Some of our most sought-after mobility aids such as the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair come with lithium batteries that are specifically designed for travel on airlines. If you choose to bring your power wheelchair on board, lithium batteries can either be checked in or brought 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 broad selection of top-rated wheelchairs and scooters, so you will be able to choose the best model to suit your lifestyle and requirements. Be sure to try out different models and speak with a healthcare professional or mobility expert prior to making your purchase. A portable electric wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent, no matter if you're taking a walk in the park, or taking an Uber or Lyft ride to meet up with friends.