Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs are available in models that reach speeds of 3 to 5 mph. Some models can be folded and disassembled for transport and airline travel.
Consider the seat width and weight capacity as well as battery life. You might also want to consider a warranty or after-sales services.
Getting Started
A portable electric wheelchair can change your life. It allows people to explore new areas, attend events and maintain an amount of independence that wouldn't be possible without a mobility option. There are some things you need to know before you take your new power wheelchair out on the road.
If you want to be safe, the best option to travel with an electric wheelchair is to take it by car. light electric wheelchair can control how it is loaded and secured, preventing damage. Call the airline in advance and give them important information regarding your wheelchair. Include the dimensions, type and location of the batteries as well as how to handle it. You might want to include a laminated instructions sheet to assist airline personnel to safely and properly handle the item.
If you don't have an automobile that can transport your electric wheelchair, then you can still utilize public transportation or ride-sharing companies like Uber or Lyft. A lot of these services provide lifts to accommodate motorized wheelchairs. It is important to inquire prior to your visit if the service provider has enough space in the trunk for your wheelchair.
Renting a scooter or a wheelchair at your destination is another option. This is a great opportunity to test an electric chair for the first time and ensure that it's comfortable. Many rental places offer a no-cost demo so you can get familiar with the vehicle and how it operates prior to buying.
Before you take your first step in your new electric wheelchair, take some time to inspect it thoroughly for any issues that need to be taken care of. This can include batteries that need to be charged, loose or missing parts or tires that are scuffed. If you find any issues, be sure to address them promptly so that they don't impact your driving experience.
Label your power wheelchair with the description of the model and serial number. Also, include your name and 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
Before traveling with an electric wheelchair, you need to understand the safety features that are built into the device and stick to the best practices. This helps foster a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. These safety measures include
Regular battery charging : A fully charged battery will prevent unexpected failures while driving.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Ensure that your wheelchair tires are in good condition to ensure maximum performance and security.
Maneuverability - Make sure your power chair is able to move through tight spaces. This includes turning radius, front and rear stability and electrical connections.
Battery Care: It's crucial to ensure that your batteries are charged at night. This will help prevent battery degradation and prolong its life.
Traveling in unfavorable terrain or weather Utilizing a power wheelchair in extreme weather and terrain can damage the device. It is best to have a person assist you in operating the device in unfamiliar environments until you are confident enough to operate it alone.
Air Travel: Staff at the airport may ask questions regarding your wheelchair and its dimensions as well as the type of battery and how to maneuver it, and its weight. Make your answers ready in advance to ensure you are able to respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Ensure you choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your electric wheelchair along. This will provide you with the space to fit your wheelchair, and you'll have more flexibility in scheduling your transportation.
Bus and Train Travel. Train cars and buses equipped with wheelchair-accessible seats are the best option for long-distance travel. Additionally, a few cities and states have train and bus systems that are fully accessible to wheelchair users.
If you plan to travel by public transport it is recommended to contact the company in advance to confirm that they will accommodate wheelchair users. Also, you should ask for accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals, if possible. You can be sure that your accommodation is waiting for you upon arrival, and your stay will be hassle-free. Consider bringing along a bottle of cream or an ointment for any muscle aches that result from long-term sitting in a power chair.
Transport
Anyone who needs an electric wheelchair that is portable will find it so much easier to move around. It can help you enjoy family vacations and discover new destinations without having to worry about accessibility. It can also provide you with the freedom to go on errands and do day-to-day things without relying on anyone else to get you there.
When transporting a wheelchair you should consider its weight and size and also the vehicle you will be using to transport it. If you have a small minivan, car or truck, it's likely that your wheelchair can fit inside the vehicle with no problem. It is also possible to fold the rear seats in order to make more space in certain vehicles.
If you have an extra large vehicle, it is recommended to consider a wheelchair lift or ramp as an option for transferring the mobility device into and out of your vehicle. Many brands, including Pride and EZ Lift, offer wheelchair lifts. These lifts will help you effortlessly and safely lift an electric chair that weighs a lot into a van, large SUV, or trunk of your preference.
Alternatively, you can also use a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This option 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 the wheelchair checked and serviced by trained technicians to ensure that it is in good working order to be used and moved. You don't want your wheelchair be damaged during transport or daily use. This is the reason it's so important to schedule regular professional maintenance for your portable electric wheelchair. This will safeguard 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 area. Extreme temperatures can harm the wiring of the chair and drain its batteries. Keep your wheelchair clear of dust and moisture that could damage it. If you intend to store it outside, make sure to use an enclosed shed or garage with a cover. This will shield it from the elements. If you have to keep your electric wheelchair in a climate controlled space, take its batteries out and keep them in a separate location. This will keep them from freezing during storage and slowing down your chair when you need it.
If you're traveling by car you can utilize a wheelchair bag that can fit an electric wheelchair that folds down even in the smallest trunk space. This is particularly useful for long-distance trips like vacations and visiting family. It's important to find out the dimensions of the wheelchair when disassembled before selecting the right travel bag. Some models are designed to fold into a variety of pieces that can be tucked into the back of a compact sedan or small SUV, while others are constructed as a single piece.
If you're planning on flying, it's a good idea to check with your airline ahead of time to determine if they have specific rules and regulations about transporting mobility aids. For example, some airlines only allow a powered wheelchair on board if it's been folded up and its batteries removed. Some of our most popular mobility aids like the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair come with lithium batteries that are specifically designed for travel on airlines. If you choose to bring your wheelchair along the lithium batteries can be inspected or added as carry-on items, based on the policies of the airlines.
Electric travel wheelchairs are an excellent way to enjoy life and move around. We have a wide selection of the top-rated wheelchairs and mobility scooters so you can pick the best model for your requirements and your lifestyle. Be sure to try out various models and talk to a healthcare professional or mobility specialist prior to making your final purchase. A portable electric wheelchair can allow you to remain mobile and independent, whether you're going for a stroll in the park, or taking an Uber or Lyft ride to meet your friends.