Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs can be found in models that reach speeds of 3 to 5 miles per hour. Some models fold and disassembled for transport and airline travel.
Other features to consider include the capacity for weight, seat width, and battery life. You might also want to look into a warranty or post-sales services.
Getting Started
Investing in a portable electric wheelchair can be life-changing. It allows people to explore new places or attend events and maintain a level of independence that isn't possible with other mobility solutions. But there are a few things you should know before taking your new power chair on the road.
Ideally, your best option to travel with an electric wheelchair is to travel by car. This way, you have control over how it's loaded and secured to prevent damage. Contact the airline ahead of time and provide them with the necessary information about your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, the type of batteries, and how it should be handled. You may want to include a laminated directions sheet to help the staff of airlines to safely and properly handle the item.
If you don't own the vehicle that can carry your electric wheelchair, then you can still take public transportation or use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. A lot of these services offer lifts that can fit the motorized wheelchair. You should ask ahead of time whether the service provider has enough trunk space for your wheelchair.
Renting a scooter or a wheelchair at the location you are visiting is a different option. This can be ideal for a chance to test out an electric wheelchair for the first time and make sure it's comfortable for you. A lot of wheelchair and scooter rental places offer a no-cost demo to help you get familiar with the vehicle and how it operates prior to purchasing.
Spend a few minutes to look over your brand new electric chair prior to you take it out for the first time. This can include batteries that need to be charged, missing or loose parts or tires being scuffed. If you notice any issues, make sure to take care of them immediately so that they don't hinder your experience on the road.
Lastly, be sure to label your power wheelchair with your name, telephone number, and a description of the model and serial number. This will be helpful should your wheelchair ever get lost in transit and could accelerate 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 highest standards. This ensures a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. This includes
Regular Battery Charging : A fully charged battery will prevent unexpected failures on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Ensure that your wheelchair tires are in excellent condition for optimal performance and safety.
Maneuverability: Make sure your chair is able to move well in tight spaces. This includes turning radius, front and rear stability, as well as electrical connections.
Battery Care: It's crucial to ensure your batteries are fully charged at night. This will reduce the degradation of your battery and prolong its life.
In unfavorable terrains or weather: Using a power wheelchair on a rough terrain or in harsh weather can damage the device. It is recommended to have someone assist you in using the device until you feel comfortable.
Air Travel: The staff at the airport might inquire regarding your wheelchair size, dimensions as well as the type of battery, how to handle it, and its weight. Prepare your answers in advance so that you can respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Select a rideshare that allows you to take your power wheelchair along. This will enable you to have a spacious backseat for your chair, and also allow you to be flexible in the scheduling of your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel: Trains and buses with designated seats for passengers with disabilities are the ideal alternatives for long distance travel. Some cities and states also have accessible train and bus systems for wheelchair users.
If you plan to take public transportation it is recommended to contact the company in advance to confirm whether they accommodate wheelchair users. In addition, you should inquire about accessible accommodations in resorts or hotels if you can. You can be sure that your accommodation is ready upon arrival, and your stay will be smooth. Consider bringing along an ounce of muscle pain ointment or cream to treat any soreness that might result from sitting for long periods in your power wheelchair.
Transport
Anyone who needs a portable electric wheelchair will find it so much easier to get around. It can help you explore new areas and enjoy family vacations without having to worry about accessibility or having to locate parking spots. It can also provide you with the freedom to go on around and complete your daily tasks without having to rely on others to take you there.
However when it comes to the transportation of a power wheelchair, it is important to consider the size and weight of the wheelchair and the vehicle you'll be using to transport it. If you have a small vehicle, minivan or truck, it's likely that the chair can fit inside the vehicle with no problem. In some instances you might be able fold the rear seats of your vehicle to make additional space.
If you own a big vehicle, a ramp for wheelchairs or lift is a great option to transfer the mobility device into and out of your vehicle. There are a wide range of lifts for vehicles that can be used with your wheelchair from different brands like Pride and EZ-Lift. attendant electric wheelchair allow you to quickly and safely lift a heavy electric wheelchair into a trunk, van or full-sized SUV of your preference.
You can also transport your electric wheelchair using trailers. This option requires a vehicle that has a hitch, and electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals, and lights.
Keep in mind that you will need to regularly maintain your wheelchair. You'll need trained technicians check and maintain the device as necessary to ensure it remains in good working order for transport and use in general. You don't want your wheelchair to be damaged during transport or everyday use. It is essential to schedule professional maintenance services on your portable electric wheelchair. This will safeguard your investment and ensure that your wheelchair is in top condition for many years to come. A well-maintained wheelchair can allow you to live your life to the fullest, while maintaining a high level of independence.
Stores
The best place to keep your electric wheelchair is a climate-controlled area. Extreme temperatures can harm the wiring of the chair and drain its batteries. Make sure your wheelchair is free of dust and moisture. Both of them can harm it. If you plan to store it outside, be sure you have an enclosed shed or garage with an enclosure. This will shield it from the weather. If you need to store your electric wheelchair in an un-climate controlled location, remove the batteries and keep them in a separate location. This will keep them from freezing and slowing down your chair when you need it.
If you are traveling by car, you can utilize a wheelchair bag that can fit a folding electric wheelchair in even the smallest trunk space. This is especially helpful for long-distance trips such as vacations or visiting family. It is essential to determine the dimensions of the wheelchair once it is disassembled before selecting a bag for travel. Some models are designed to fold into multiple pieces that can be tucked into the back of a compact car or small SUV, whereas others are constructed as a single piece.
If you're planning on flying and need to travel with a wheelchair, it's best to check with your airline prior to departure to see whether they have any specific rules and regulations regarding transporting mobility aids. For example certain airlines will allow a powered wheelchair on board in the event that it's been folded and its batteries removed. Some of our most popular mobility aids like the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair come with lithium batteries that are designed for airline travel. If you decide to take your power wheelchair on board lithium batteries can be checked in or carried with you as carry-ons, based on the policies of the airline.
Electric mobility wheelchairs are a great way to enjoy life and get around. We offer a large range of top-rated wheelchairs and scooters, so you can find the ideal model for your lifestyle and needs. Make sure you test various models and speak to an expert in healthcare or a mobility specialist before making your final purchase. A portable electric wheelchair can help you stay mobile and independent, whether you're walking in the park or taking an Uber or Lyft ride to meet up with friends.