Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Based on the model, you can find electric wheelchairs that range from 3 to 5 mph. Some models can be folded and disassembled for transport and air travel.
Consider the seat width as well as the weight capacity and battery life. You may also want to look for warranties and after-sales services.
Getting Started
A electric wheelchair that is portable can be life-changing. It lets people explore new areas as well as attend events and maintain an independence that isn't possible using other mobility solutions. There are a few things you should be aware of before taking your new power wheelchair on the road.
The most efficient method to travel with an electric chair is by car. You can regulate how it is loaded and secured, preventing damage. If you choose to fly, be sure to call the airline ahead of time and provide them with vital details about your wheelchair. Include the dimensions, the type and location of batteries as well as how to handle it. You may want to include a laminated instruction sheet to assist airline personnel safely and correctly handle the item.
If you don't have a vehicle capable of transporting your electric wheelchair, you can still take public transportation or use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. A lot of these services provide lifts that can accommodate motorized wheelchairs. But, make certain to inquire with the service provider prior to time whether they have enough trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Renting a scooter or wheelchair at your destination is an alternative option. This is a fantastic opportunity to test an electric chair for the first time and ensure that it's comfortable. Many rental stores offer a free demonstration so that you can become familiar with the model and how it operates prior to buying.
Take a few moments to inspect your new electric chair prior to you use it for the first time. This could be a battery that needs to be charged, a malfunctioning or damaged parts or tires being scuffed. If you find any issues, be sure to address them promptly so that they don't hinder your driving experience.
Label your power wheelchair with the name of the model and serial number. Also, add your name and number. This will assist in the event that your wheelchair gets lost during transit and can speed up the process of getting it back to you.
Safety First
Before using an electric wheelchair, it's crucial to know the safety features that are built into the device and adhere to the best practices. This will ensure a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. This includes
Regular Battery Charging: A fully charged battery will prevent unexpected failures while driving.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Ensure that your wheelchair tires are in excellent condition for maximum performance and safety.
Maneuverability: Make sure that your power chair can maneuver in tight spaces. This includes turning radius and rear and front stability, as well as electrical connections.
Battery Care: It's essential to keep your batteries in good condition at the night. This will help prevent battery degradation and prolong its life.
Traveling in Unfavorable Terrain or Weather: Using a power wheelchair on a rough terrain or in harsh weather can cause damage to the device. It is best to have a person to assist you in unfamiliar environments until you feel comfortable enough to use it on your own.
Air Travel: Airline staff might ask questions regarding the dimensions of your wheelchair and battery type, how it should be handled, and the weight it carries. It's a good idea prepare answers ahead of time so that you can answer these questions quickly and confidently.
Rideshare: Make sure that you choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your electric wheelchair along. This will let you have a spacious backseat for your chair, and also let you be flexible with the scheduling of your transportation.
Bus and Train Travel. Buses and train cars with wheelchair-accessible seats are the best option for long-distance travel. In addition, some cities and states have bus and train systems that are completely accessible to wheelchair-bound passengers.
If you plan to use public transportation it is a good idea to call the company prior to your trip to confirm if they provide accommodations for wheelchair users. If you are able, you can also request accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals. This means you can be sure that your accommodation will be ready for your arrival and that your trip will be smooth and easy. Bring along cream or an ointment to ease any muscle aches that result from long-term sitting in a power chair.
Transport
Anyone who needs a portable electric wheelchair will find it easier to get around. It can help you discover new destinations and take family vacations without worrying about accessibility or having to locate an area to park. It also gives you the freedom to do your around and complete your daily tasks without having to rely on anyone else to get you there.
However, when it comes to transporting a power wheelchair, it is important be aware of the size and weight of the wheelchair and the vehicle you'll be using to transport it. If you're using a smaller vehicle, minivan or truck, then it's likely that the chair will fit into the vehicle without issue. In some cases you might be able to fold up the rear seats of your vehicle for more space, too.
If you have a large vehicle, a ramp or lift is an ideal alternative to move the mobility device inside and out of your vehicle. You can find a variety of lifts for vehicles that can be used with your wheelchair from various brands including Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts will help you effortlessly and safely lift the weighty electric chair into a van, large SUV, or trunk of your preference.
You can transport your electric wheelchair on trailers. This requires a vehicle that has an attached hitch, and electrical wiring to power your trailer's brakes, turn signals and lights.
It's also important to keep in mind that your wheelchair will require regular maintenance services. You'll need to have the wheelchair inspected and serviced by a trained technician to ensure that it's in good condition to be used and moved. The last thing you want is that your wheelchair gets damaged while transporting or it is being used on a daily basis. This is why it's critical to schedule regular professional maintenance services for your electric wheelchair that is portable. This will safeguard your investment, and keep your electric wheelchair in great shape for many years. A well-maintained chair will allow you to live your life to the fullest while maintaining a high degree of independence.
Stores
The best place to keep your electric wheelchair is a climate-controlled space. Extreme temperatures can harm the electric wiring in the chair and drain its battery. Keep your chair free of moisture and dust. Both could cause damage to it. If you are storing it outside, be sure you use a garage or shed with the cover. This will shield it from the weather. If you have to store your power wheelchair in a climate-controlled area, remove its batteries and keep them in a separate place. This will prevent them from freezing and slowing your chair when you need it.
If you're traveling by car you can use a special wheelchair travel bag that fits the electric wheelchair foldable in even the tiniest trunk space. This is especially useful when you are traveling for a long time, like vacations or visits to relatives. Before you pick a bag for travel, it's important to be aware of the dimensions of the chair when taken apart. Some models can fold into multiple pieces that fit into the back of a compact car or small SUV, whereas others are made as one piece.
Consult your airline before you fly to find out whether there are any particular rules or regulations governing the transport of mobility aids. For instance, some airlines only permit the use of an electric wheelchair when it's been folded and its batteries removed. Some of our most popular mobility aids like the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair include lithium batteries designed for airline travel. If you decide to take your power wheelchair along lithium batteries can be checked in or brought on as carry-on depending on the policy of the airline.
Electric mobility wheelchairs are an excellent option to have fun and move around. compact electric wheelchair have a wide selection of the top-rated wheelchairs as well as mobility scooters to help you select the perfect model for your needs and lifestyle. Before you make a decision you should test several models and talk to an expert in mobility or a healthcare professional. A portable electric wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent, no matter if you're walking in the park or taking an Uber or Lyft ride to meet friends.