Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Electric wheelchairs can be found in models that can reach speeds of 3 to 5 mph. Some models even fold and disassemble for easy transport and air travel.
Other aspects to consider include the weight capacity along with the seat width, as well as battery life. You might also want to think about a warranty or after-sales services.
Getting Started
A portable electric wheelchair could transform your life. It lets people travel to new places, attend events and maintain a degree of independence that wouldn't be possible with any other mobility solution. There are a few things you should know before you take your new power wheelchair out on the road.
The best choice for traveling in an electric wheelchair is to travel in a car. You can regulate how it is loaded and secured, which will help prevent damage. If you do choose to fly, be sure to contact the airline prior to departure and provide them with important details about your wheelchair. Include the dimensions, type and location of batteries, as well as how to handle it. You may also want to attach a laminated instruction sheet to help airline staff to handle the battery safely and correctly.
If you don't own an automobile that can transport your electric wheelchair, you can still take public transportation or ride-sharing companies like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services offer lifts to accommodate motorized wheelchairs. However, be certain to inquire with the service provider in advance if they have enough trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Another option is to rent a wheelchair or scooter at the location you want to go. This is ideal for a chance to test the electric wheelchair for the first time, and make sure it's comfortable for you. A lot of wheelchair and scooter rental stores offer a free demo to help you get familiar with the vehicle and the way it drives prior to buying.
Before your first outing in your new electric wheelchair, take some time to examine it thoroughly for any issues that need to be taken care of. This can include a battery that needs to be charged, loose or missing parts or tires that are scuffed. If you find any issues, make sure to take care of them immediately so that they don't hinder your driving experience.
Finally, make sure to label your power wheelchair with your name, contact number, and a description of the wheelchair's model and serial number. This will help you if your power wheelchair gets lost in transit and can make it easier to get 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 best practices. This ensures a safe and enjoyable mobility experience. These precautions include:
Regular Battery Charging: A fully charged battery will prevent unexpected failures on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Conditions: Ensure that your wheelchair tires are in great condition for optimal performance and security.
Maneuverability: Make sure your chair is able to maneuver well in tight areas. This includes turning radius and rear and front stability as and electrical connections.
Keep your batteries charged overnight. This will minimize battery degradation and extend its life.
Traveling on Unfavorable Weather or Terrain: Operating your power wheelchair in harsh conditions or terrain can cause damage to the device. It is best to have a person assist you in operating the device in new environments until you are comfortable enough to use it on your own.
Air Travel: The staff at the airport might ask questions regarding your wheelchair size, dimensions, battery type the best way to use it, and the weight. It's a good idea prepare answers in advance to be able to answer these questions quickly and confidently.
Rideshare: Choose a rideshare that allows you to take 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.
Bus and Train Travel by Train and Bus. Train cars and buses equipped with wheelchair-accessible seating are the best choice for long distance travel. Additionally, a few cities and states have bus and train systems that are accessible to wheelchair users.
If you do plan to take public transportation it is a good idea to call the company prior to your trip to confirm that they will offer wheelchair-friendly accommodations. Also, you should ask for accessible accommodations in resorts or hotels if feasible. You can be assured that your accommodations will be ready for you when you arrive and that your stay will be smooth. You might want to bring along cream or an ointment to ease any muscle pain that could result from long periods of sitting in a wheelchair.
Transport
Anyone who needs an electric wheelchair with a portability will find it much easier to get around. It allows you to explore new areas and enjoy family vacations without stressing about accessibility or finding parking spots. You can run errands, do your daily tasks and more without relying on anyone else.
However, when it comes to the transportation of a power wheelchair, you have to take into consideration the size and weight of the wheelchair and the vehicle you'll be using to transport it. If you're driving a compact vehicle, minivan or truck, it's likely that the wheelchair can fit inside the vehicle without difficulty. In certain instances you might be able to fold up the rear seats of your vehicle for additional space.
If you have an extra large vehicle, it is 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 will allow you to safely and easily raise an electric chair that weighs a lot into a van, large SUV, or trunk of your preference.
You can also transport your electric wheelchair by using a trailer. This requires a vehicle with an attached hitch, as well as electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals, and lights.
It's important to keep in mind that your wheelchair will require regular maintenance. You'll want to have the wheelchair checked and maintained by a trained technician to ensure that it is in good shape to be used and transported. You do not want your wheelchair to be damaged during transport or regular use. It is crucial to schedule professional maintenance on your electric portable wheelchair. This will safeguard your investment, and keep your electric wheelchair in great condition for years to come. A well-maintained chair can allow you to live your life to the fullest, while maintaining a high level of independence.
Storage
The best place to store your electric wheelchair is in a climate controlled space. Extreme temperatures can harm the wiring of the chair and deplete its batteries. Make sure your chair is protected from moisture and dust that could damage it. If you store it outdoors, make sure you use an enclosed garage or shed with a cover to protect it from the elements. If you must keep your chair in a non-climate-controlled space, take the batteries out and keep them in a separate place. This will stop them from freezing during storage and slowing your chair down when you require it.
You can make use of a travel bag for a wheelchair that will fit a folding electric chair inside the smallest car trunk. This is especially helpful for long-distance travel like vacations and visiting family. Before deciding on the right travel bag it is essential to be aware of the dimensions of the chair when taken apart. Some models are designed to fold into multiple pieces that can be tucked into the back of a compact sedan or small SUV, while others are made as one piece.
Consult your airline before you travel to determine if there are any specific rules or regulations regarding the transport of mobility aids. Certain airlines, for instance permit you to bring a powered chair on board when the battery has been removed and it has been folded. Many of our most well-known mobility aids like the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair come with lithium batteries that are designed for airline travel. If you decide to bring your wheelchair on board the lithium batteries can be tested or used as a carry-on, depending on the airline's policies.
An electric travel wheelchair is a great way to get around and enjoy your life more fully. 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 different models and speak with an expert in healthcare or a mobility specialist prior to making your final purchase. No matter if you're taking a stroll through the park or taking an Uber or Lyft to meet with friends, a portable electric chair can help you remain mobile and independent.