Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs can be found in models that have speeds of 3 to 5 miles per hour. Some models fold and disassembled to make it easy for transportation and travel on airlines.
Other features to consider include the weight capacity, seat width, and battery life. You might also want to look for warranties and after-sales services.
Getting Started
A portable electric wheelchair can change your life. It allows people to explore new places, attend events, and maintain a level of independence that's not possible using other mobility solutions. There are a few things you should be aware of prior to taking your new power wheelchair out on the road.
The most convenient method to travel with an electric chair is by car. You can regulate how it is loaded and secured, preventing damage. If you decide to fly, make sure to call the airline in advance and provide them with pertinent information about your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, type of batteries and how it should be handled. It is also possible to attach a laminated instruction sheet to assist airline personnel to handle the battery safely and correctly.
If you don't have a vehicle that is able to transport your electric wheelchair, you can still take public transportation or ride-share companies like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services have lifts that can accommodate motorized wheelchairs. You should inquire prior to your visit if the service provider has enough trunk space for your wheelchair.
Another option is to rent the scooter or wheelchair at your destination. This is a great way to test an electric chair for the first time, and ensure that it's comfortable. MyMobilityScooters offer free demonstrations so you can familiarize yourself with the wheelchair before you purchase.
Before your first outing in your electric wheelchair, take a few minutes to inspect it thoroughly for any issues that require to be taken care of. This could include the battery that must be charged, a malfunctioning or damaged parts or tires that are scuffed. If you spot any issues, make sure to address them promptly to ensure they don't affect your road trip experience.
Label your wheelchair with the description of the model and serial number. Also, include your name and phone number. This will be helpful in the event that your wheelchair gets lost during transit and can 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 built into your device and adhere to the highest standards. This ensures a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. These safety measures include
Regular Battery Charging: A fully charged battery can prevent unexpected failures on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Ensure that your wheelchair tires are in great condition for optimal performance and security.
Maneuverability: Ensure that your power chair can be maneuvered in tight areas. This includes turning radius and rear and front stability, as and electrical connections.
Make sure your batteries are charged during the night. This minimizes battery degradation and extends its life.
Traveling in Unfavorable Terrain or Weather: Using a power wheelchair in extreme weather and terrain can damage the device. It is recommended to have someone assist you in using the device until you feel at ease.
Air Travel: Staff at the airport might ask questions regarding your wheelchair and its dimensions, battery type the best way to use it, and the weight. It's a good idea prepare answers in advance so that you can answer these questions quickly and confidently.
Rideshare: Make sure that you select a rideshare provider that allows you to bring your power wheelchair along. This will provide you with an ample back seat to accommodate your wheelchair, and you'll also have more flexibility when scheduling your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel. Buses and train cars with wheelchair-accessible seats are the best choice for long distance travel. Additionally, a few cities and states have train and bus systems that are fully accessible to wheelchair users.
If you do plan to use public transportation, it's a good idea to call the company ahead of time to confirm whether they offer wheelchair-friendly accommodations. Also, you should ask for accessible accommodations at hotels or vacation rentals if you can. This will allow you to ensure that your accommodation will be ready for your arrival and your visit will be hassle-free. Additionally, consider bringing a bottle of muscle pain ointment or cream to treat any soreness that can come from prolonged sitting in your power wheelchair.
Transport
A portable electric wheelchair can make life so much easier for anyone who requires one. It allows you to explore new places and enjoy family holidays without having to worry about accessibility or having to locate an area to park. It can also provide you with the freedom to run routine errands and other activities without having to rely on someone else to take you there.
When transporting a wheelchair, you must consider the weight and size of the wheelchair, as well as what vehicle you'll be using to transport it. If you have a smaller vehicle, such as a minivan or a 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 in order to create more space in some vehicles.
If you have a larger vehicle, then it's recommended to consider ramps or wheelchair lifts as a way of moving 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 various brands, including Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts can help you safely and easily raise the weighty electric chair into a van, full-sized SUV or trunk of your preference.
You can also make use of a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This requires a vehicle equipped with a hitch and electrical wiring for your trailer's lights, turn signals and brakes.
It's important to bear in mind that your wheelchair will require regular maintenance services. It is essential that trained technicians inspect and service the device regularly to ensure it remains in good condition for transporting and general use. You don't want your wheelchair be damaged during transport or everyday use. This is the reason it's so important to schedule regular professional maintenance for your electric wheelchair that is portable. This will protect your investment, and help keep your electric wheelchair in good condition for a long time. A well-maintained chair can allow you to live your life to the fullest while maintaining a high degree of independence.
Stores
The ideal place to store your electric wheelchair is a climate-controlled space. Extreme temperatures can damage the electric wiring in the chair and drain its battery. Keep your wheelchair away from dust and moisture, which can also damage it. If you store it outdoors, make sure you use a shed or garage with a cover to shield it from the elements. If you need to keep your chair in a non-climate controlled space, take the batteries out and store them separately. This will keep them from freezing and slowing down your chair when you need it.
If you are traveling by car, you can make use of a wheelchair bag that can fit the electric wheelchair foldable even in the tiniest trunk space. This is particularly useful for long-distance travel like vacations and visiting family. Before deciding on a bag for travel, it's important to be aware of the dimensions of the chair once it is disassembled. Some models are designed to fold in multiple pieces that can fit in the back of a compact sedan or small SUV, whereas others are constructed as a single piece.
If you're planning to fly, it's a good idea to contact your airline in advance to see whether they have specific rules and regulations for transporting mobility aids. Certain airlines, like, only allow the use of an electric chair when the battery has been removed and it has been folded. Many of our most well-known mobility devices, including the Jazzy Carbon folding powered wheelchair come with lithium batteries that are specifically designed specifically for airline travel. If you decide to bring your power wheelchair on board, lithium batteries can either be checked in or brought on as carry-on depending on the policies of the airline.
An electric travel wheelchair is a great option to get around and enjoy your life to the fullest. We offer a large range of top-rated wheelchairs and scooters, so you will be able to choose the best model to suit your lifestyle and requirements. Before making a final decision you should test several models and consult an expert in mobility or a healthcare professional. No matter if you're taking a stroll in the park or taking an Uber or Lyft to meet up with friends, a portable electric wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent.