Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs are available in models that reach speeds of 3 to 5 3 to 5 mph. Some models even fold and disassemble for easy transport and air travel.
Other features to consider include the capacity for weight along with the seat width, as well as battery life. You might also look into a warranty or post-sales services.
Getting Started
Investing in a electric wheelchair that is portable can be life-changing. It allows people to explore new places as well as attend events and maintain an independence that wouldn't be possible using other mobility solutions. However, there are some things you should know before you take your new power chair on the road.
The most convenient method of traveling with an electric chair is by car. You can determine how the wheelchair is loaded and secured, which will help prevent damage. Contact the airline ahead of time and give them important information about your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, type of batteries, and how it should be handled. You might also want to attach a laminated instructions sheet to help airline staff handle it properly and safely.
If you don't have a vehicle that can transport your electric wheelchair, you are able to make use of public transportation or ride-share services like Uber or Lyft. A lot of these services offer lifts that can be used to accommodate a motorized wheelchair. But, make sure to inquire with the service provider in advance whether they have the trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Another option is to lease an electric scooter or wheelchair at the point of departure. 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. Many rental places offer a free demonstration so you can familiarize yourself with the device before purchasing.
Before you take your first step in your new electric wheelchair take the time to inspect it thoroughly for any issues that need to be addressed. This could include the battery that must be charged, loose or missing parts, or scuffing tires. If you find any issues, make sure to take care of them immediately to ensure they don't affect your experience on the road.
Also, be sure to label your power wheelchair with your name, contact number, as well as a description of the model and serial number. This will aid you in case your power wheelchair is lost in transit and will make it easier to get it back to you.
Safety First
It is essential to understand the safety features of your electric wheelchair and follow best practices before traveling. This will allow you have a safe mobility experience. This includes
Regular battery charging : A fully charged battery will prevent unexpected failures on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Make sure that your wheelchair tires are in excellent condition to ensure maximum performance and safety.
Maneuverability: Make sure that your power chair can maneuver well in tight spaces. This includes turning radius, front and rear stability as well as electrical connections.
Keep your batteries charged overnight. This will minimize battery degradation and extend its life.
Traveling in a weather that isn't favorable or Terrain: Operating your power wheelchair in harsh conditions and terrain could 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 on your own.
Air Travel: The staff at the airport might ask questions regarding your wheelchair size, dimensions and battery type the best way to use it, and the weight. It's a good idea to prepare your answers in advance to be able to answer these questions quickly and confidently.
Rideshare: Choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your wheelchair with you. This will give you an ample back seat to accommodate your wheelchair, and you'll be able to plan more flexiblely your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel: Buses and trains with seats that are specifically reserved for passengers in wheelchairs are the best alternatives for long distance travel. Some cities and states also have accessible train and bus services for wheelchair users.
It is a good idea to verify with the company whether they will accommodate wheelchair users if you intend to travel by public transportation. If possible, you can also request accessible accommodations at hotels or vacation rentals. You can rest assured that your accommodation will be waiting for you when you arrive and that your stay will be hassle-free. Consider bringing along cream or an ointment to ease any muscle pain that may result from long-term sitting in a wheelchair.
Transport
A portable electric wheelchair can make life so much easier for those who requires one. It allows you to take advantage of family vacations and discover new locations without worrying about accessibility. It also gives you the freedom to go on around and complete your daily tasks without having to rely on others to get you there.
However when it comes time to transport a power wheelchair, you have to take into consideration the size and weight of the wheelchair as well as the vehicle you'll use to transport it. If you have a small vehicle, minivan or truck, then it's likely that the chair can fit inside the vehicle with no problem. In some instances, you may be able to fold the rear seats of your vehicle to make more space, too.
If you have a larger vehicle, then it's best to look at ramps or wheelchair lifts as a way of moving the mobility device in and out of your vehicle. There are a range of vehicle lift options for your wheelchair from a variety of brands, including Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts can help you effortlessly and safely lift the weight of your electric wheelchair into a trunk, van or full-sized SUV of your choice.
Alternatively, you can also make use of a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This requires a vehicle that has a hitch as well as electrical wiring to the trailer's brakes, turn signals and lights.
It is important to keep in mind that you'll need to keep your wheelchair maintained regularly. You'll need to have the wheelchair inspected and serviced by certified technicians to ensure that it's in good condition to be used and moved. The most important thing you'd like to avoid is for your wheelchair to become damaged during transport or when being used on a daily basis. This is why it's crucial to schedule regular professional maintenance services for your portable electric wheelchair. This will help protect your investment and keep your wheelchair in good shape for years to come. A well-maintained wheelchair will help you enjoy your life to the fullest, while maintaining your high level of independence.
Storage
The best location to keep your electric wheelchair is in a climate controlled space. Extreme temperatures will damage the electric wiring in the chair and deplete its battery. Make sure electric wheelchair all terrain is free of dust and water. Both can damage it. If you plan to store it outside, be sure you have a garage or shed with the cover. This will shield it from the elements. If you must store your electric wheelchair in an un-climate controlled area, remove its batteries and store them separately. This will keep them from freezing and slowing your chair when you require it.
You can use a special travel bag for a wheelchair that can fit an electric chair that folds in the tiniest trunk of a car. This is especially useful for long-distance trips like vacations or visits to family. Before you pick a travel bag, it's important to be aware of the dimensions of the chair when disassembled. Some models are designed to fold in multiple pieces that fit into the back of a compact vehicle or small SUV, whereas others are designed as a single piece.
Consult your airline before you take off to find out whether there are any specific rules or regulations regarding the transport of mobility aids. Certain airlines, for instance will only permit you to bring powered chairs on board when the battery has been removed and it is folded. Many of our most well-known mobility aids, such as the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair include lithium batteries designed for airline travel. If you decide to take your power wheelchair on board lithium batteries can be checked in or taken in as carry-ons based on the policy of the airline.
Electric mobility wheelchairs are an excellent way to relax and move around. We have a wide range of top-rated wheelchairs as well as scooters, allowing you to find the ideal model to suit your lifestyle and needs. Try various models and speak to an expert in the field of healthcare or a mobility specialist prior to making your purchase. If you're planning a stroll through the park or taking an Uber or Lyft to meet up with friends, a portable electric chair will help you stay mobile and independent.