Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair

Electric wheelchairs are available in models that reach speeds of 3 to 5 miles per hour. Some models fold and disassembled for transport and travel on airlines.

Other factors to consider are the capacity for weight along with the seat width, as well as battery life. It is also possible to consider a warranty and after-sales service.

Getting Started

A portable electric wheelchair can transform your life. It lets people explore new areas and attend events, while maintaining the level of independence that wouldn't be possible with a different mobility device. There are certain things you need to be aware of prior to taking your new power wheelchair out on the road.

If you want to be safe, the best option for traveling with an electric wheelchair is to travel in a car. This way, you'll have control over how it's loaded and secured to avoid damage. Call the airline in advance and provide them with important details regarding your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, the type of batteries and how it should be handled. It is possible to include a laminated instruction sheet to assist airline personnel to safely and properly handle the item.

If you don't own an automobile that can transport your electric wheelchair, you can still use public transportation or use ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. Many of these services offer lifts that can accommodate motorized wheelchairs. However, be sure to ask the service provider in advance whether they have enough trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.

Another option is to rent an electric scooter or wheelchair at the location you want to go. This is an excellent way to try out an electric wheelchair the first time, and make sure it's comfortable for you. Many wheelchair and scooter rental locations provide a free demonstration so that you can become familiar with the vehicle and how it drives before purchasing.

Before your first outing in your new electric wheelchair, take the time to inspect it thoroughly for any issues that require to be taken care of. This can include the battery that must be charged, loose or missing parts, or scuffing tires. You must address any issues promptly to avoid them impacting your driving experience.

Also, be sure to label your power wheelchair with your name, telephone number, as well as a description of the wheelchair's model and serial number. This will help in the event that your wheelchair gets lost in transit and will speed up the process of getting it back to you.

Safety First

Before using an electric wheelchair, it's important to know the safety features that are built into the device and stick to the best practices. This helps foster an enjoyable and safe mobility experience. These safety measures include:

Regular battery charging: Having a full battery prevents unexpected failures 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 in tight spaces. This includes turning radius, front and rear stability, and electrical connections.

Keep your batteries charged throughout the night. This reduces the degradation of batteries and prolongs its lifespan.

Travelling in unfavorable weather or Terrain: Operating your power wheelchair in harsh weather and terrain can cause damage to the device. It's best to have someone help you operate the device in unfamiliar conditions until you're confident enough to operate it on your own.

Air Travel: The staff at the airport may inquire regarding your wheelchair size, dimensions as well as the type of battery and how to maneuver it, and its weight. It's a good idea to prepare your answers in advance so that you can respond to these questions quickly and confidently.

Rideshare: Ensure you choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your Electric wheelchair to buy wheelchair along. This will give you a spacious backseat to accommodate your wheelchair, and you'll also have more flexibility when scheduling your transportation.

Bus and Train Travel by Train and Bus. Train cars and buses equipped with wheelchair-accessible seats are the best option for long distance travel. Certain states and cities have accessible train and bus systems for wheelchair users.

If you plan to use public transportation, it's best to call the company in advance to confirm whether they offer wheelchair-friendly accommodations. Additionally, you should request accessible accommodations at hotels or vacation rentals, if possible. You can rest assured that your accommodations will be waiting for you upon arrival, and that your stay will be trouble-free. Additionally, consider bringing a bottle of ointment to treat muscle pain or cream to deal with any soreness that might result from sitting for long periods in your power wheelchair.

Transport

A portable electric wheelchair can make life much easier for those who requires one. It can help you enjoy family vacations and discover new locations without worrying about accessibility. You can complete errands, complete your daily chores and more without relying on anyone other than yourself.

When transporting a wheelchair you should consider its weight and size and the vehicle you will be using to transport it. If you have a smaller vehicle, such as a minivan or truck then it's likely that your wheelchair will fit into the vehicle without a problem. It is also possible to fold the rear seats to create more space in some vehicles.

If you own a larger vehicle, then it's recommended to consider ramps or wheelchair lifts as an option for transferring the mobility device in and out of your car. You can find a variety of lifts for vehicles that can be used with your wheelchair from different brands like Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts allow you to quickly and safely lift the weight of your electric wheelchair into a trunk, van or full sized SUV of your choice.

You can also use a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This option requires a vehicle that has a hitch, as well as electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals, and lights.

It's also important to keep in your mind that your wheelchair will require regular maintenance. You'll need to have the wheelchair checked and serviced by certified technicians to ensure that it's in good shape to be used and moved. You do not want your wheelchair to be damaged during transport or everyday use. It is important to schedule professional maintenance on your electric portable wheelchair. This will safeguard your investment and keep your electric wheelchair in good 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.

Storage

The best place to keep your electric wheelchair in storage is in a climate-controlled space. Extreme temperatures can damage the wiring of the chair and drain its batteries. Keep your wheelchair clear of dust and moisture that could damage it. If you are storing it outdoors, you should use a shed or garage with a cover to shield it from the elements. If you need to keep your electric wheelchair in a climate-controlled space, take its batteries out and store them separately. This will prevent them from freezing in storage and slowing your chair down when you require it.

You can also use a bag for traveling with a wheelchair that can fit the electric chair fold-down in even the tiniest trunk of a car. This is particularly useful for long-distance trips like trips to the beach or visiting relatives. Before choosing the right travel bag it is essential to be aware of the dimensions of the chair when disassembled. Some models can be folded into multiple pieces to fit in the trunk of a compact car or small SUV. Some are built as a single piece.

If you're planning on flying, it's a good idea to contact your airline ahead of time to determine whether they have any specific rules and regulations for transporting mobility aids. Certain airlines, like permit the use of an electric chair when the battery is removed and the chair is folded. Some of our most popular mobility devices, such as the Jazzy Carbon folding powered wheelchair, have lithium batteries specially designed for use on airline flights. If you do decide to take your wheelchair along, the lithium batteries can be checked or added as carry-on items, based on the airlines' policies.

A mobility scooter that is electric is a great way to get around and enjoy your life to the fullest. We offer a large range of top-rated wheelchairs as well as scooters, so you will be able to find the ideal model to suit your lifestyle and needs. Before you make a decision test a few models and consult an expert in Alton Mobility WOLF Lightweight Heavy Duty Wheelchair or a healthcare professional. No matter if you're taking an afternoon stroll in the park or using an Uber or Lyft to meet up with friends A portable electric wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent.