The Electric Travel Wheelchair Mistake That Every Beginner Makes
Wiki Article
Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs are available in models that can reach speeds of 3 to 5 miles per hour. Some models fold up and disassemble for simple transportation and travel on airlines.
Other aspects to consider include the weight capacity along with the seat width, as well as battery life. You might also want to think about a warranty or after-sales services.
Getting Started
Investing in a portable electric wheelchair can be life-changing. It lets people explore new places as well as attend events and maintain an independence that's not possible with other mobility options. However, there are some things you should know before you take your new electric chair on the road.
The most efficient method of traveling with electric chairs is to travel by car. You can regulate how it is loaded and secured, thus avoiding damage. Call the airline in advance and provide them with the necessary information regarding your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, type of batteries and how it will 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 a vehicle that is able to transport your electric wheelchair, you can still make use of public transportation or ride-share services like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services have lifts to accommodate motorized wheelchairs. However, be certain to inquire with the service provider in advance whether they have the trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Renting a wheelchair or scooter at your destination is another option. This is a great opportunity to try out an electric chair for the first time, and ensure that it's comfortable. Many rental facilities provide a free demonstration to allow you to become familiar with the device before purchasing.
Before your first outing in your new electric wheelchair, take some time to inspect it thoroughly for any issues that require to be addressed. This could be loose parts or battery that is not fully charged or tires that have been scratched. If you notice any issues, be sure to address them immediately so that they don't hinder your driving experience.
Label your wheelchair with a description of its model and serial number. Also, add your name and phone number. This will be helpful should your wheelchair ever get lost in transit and could speed up the process of getting it back to you.
Safety First
It's important that you understand the safety features of your electric wheelchair and adhere to the most effective practices prior to travelling. This will help you enjoy a safer mobility experience. These safety measures include
Regular battery charging: Having a full battery will prevent unexpected problems and delays on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Ensure that your wheelchair tires are in great condition for optimal performance and safety.
Maneuverability: Ensure that your power chair can maneuver well in tight areas. This includes turning radius, front and rear stability and electrical connections.
Battery Care: It's essential to keep your batteries full at night. This will reduce the degradation of your battery and extend its life.
Traveling in unfavorable terrain or weather conditions Utilizing a power wheelchair on a rough terrain or in harsh weather can damage the device. You should have someone assist you in using the device until you are at ease.
Air Travel: Staff at the airline may inquire about your wheelchair size, dimensions, battery type, how to handle it, and its weight. Make your answers ready in advance so that you can respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Ensure you select a rideshare provider that allows you to bring your power wheelchair along. This will enable you to have a large back seat for your chair, and also let you be flexible with scheduling your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel by Train and Bus. Train cars and buses equipped with wheelchair-accessible seating are the best option for long-distance travel. Additionally, a few cities and states have bus and train systems that are fully accessible to wheelchair-bound passengers.
It is a good idea to verify with the company whether they will accommodate wheelchair users if you plan to travel by public transportation. If you are able, you can also request accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals. You can be sure that your accommodation is ready when you arrive and your stay will be smooth. Additionally, consider bringing a bottle of ointment to treat muscle pain or cream to ease any soreness that might result from extended periods of sitting in your power wheelchair.
Transport
A portable electric wheelchair can make life much easier for anyone who requires one. It can help you explore new places and enjoy family holidays without stressing about accessibility or having to locate an area to park. You can go on errands and perform your everyday tasks and more without having to rely on anyone else.
When transporting a wheelchair you should consider the weight and size of the wheelchair and the vehicle you will be using to transport it. If you're using a smaller car, minivan or truck, it's likely that your wheelchair can fit inside the vehicle without difficulty. You might also be able to fold the rear seats to create more space in some vehicles.
If you own an additional vehicle, it is recommended to consider a wheelchair lift or ramp as a way of moving the mobility device into and out of your vehicle. Various brands, including Pride and EZ Lift, offer wheelchair lifts. These lifts can help you effortlessly and safely lift the weight of your electric wheelchair into a van, trunk or full-sized SUV of your preference.
You can transport your electric wheelchair on a trailer. This requires a vehicle with an attached hitch, as well as electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals and lights.
It's important to keep in your mind that your wheelchair requires regular maintenance. It is essential that trained technicians examine and service the device as necessary to ensure it's in good working order for transport and use in general. You don't want your wheelchair be damaged during transport or daily use. It is essential to schedule professional maintenance on your portable electric wheelchair. This will help protect your investment and keep your wheelchair in tip-top shape for many years to come. A well-maintained chair can help you 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 damage the wiring of the chair and deplete its batteries. Make sure your chair is protected from moisture and dust, which can also damage it. If you are storing it outside, make sure you use an enclosed shed or garage with an enclosure. This will shield it from weather. If you must keep your chair in a non-climate controlled space, remove the batteries and store them separately. This will stop them from freezing and slowing your chair when you require it.
When traveling by car, you can make use of a wheelchair bag that can fit an electric wheelchair that folds down inside the smallest trunk space. This is particularly useful for long-distance trips like vacations, or when visiting family. Before you pick the right travel bag it is essential to know the dimensions of the chair once it is taken apart. Some models can be folded into multiple pieces to fit in the trunk of a small car or a small SUV. Some are built in one piece.
Consult more info your airline before you travel to determine whether there are any specific rules or regulations governing the transport of mobility aids. Certain airlines, like permit the use of a powered chair on board if the battery is removed and the chair has been folded. Many of our most well-known mobility aids such as the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair have lithium batteries that are specifically designed for travel on airlines. If you decide to bring your power wheelchair along, lithium batteries can either be checked in or carried in as carry-ons based on the policies of the airline.
Electric travel wheelchairs are a great way to relax and get around. We offer a broad selection of the top-rated wheelchairs and mobility scooters so you can select the perfect model that fits your needs and lifestyle. Before making a final decision test a few models and consult a mobility specialist or healthcare professional. A portable electric wheelchair can help you stay mobile and independent, no matter if you're taking a walk in the park, or taking an Uber or Lyft ride to meet your friends.