Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Based on the model depending on the model, you can find electric wheelchairs that range from 3 to 5 mph. Some models fold up and disassemble for simple transportation and travel on airlines.
Think about the width of the seat and weight capacity as well as battery life. You may also want to think about a warranty or after-sales services.
Getting Started
Investing in a portable electric wheelchair can be life-changing. It allows people to explore new areas as well as attend events and maintain a level of independence that isn't possible using other mobility solutions. There are a few things you should be aware of before taking your new power wheelchair on the road.
The best choice to travel with an electric wheelchair is to take it by car. This way, you'll have control over how the wheelchair is loaded and secured to avoid damage. If you decide to fly, make sure to contact the airline ahead of time and provide them with vital details about your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, the type of batteries and how it will be handled. You might also want to attach a laminated instruction sheet to help the staff at the airport handle it properly and safely.
If you don't have a vehicle that can transport your electric wheelchair, you can take public transportation or ride-share services like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services offer lifts that can be used to accommodate wheelchairs. However, be sure to ask the service provider ahead of time 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 is a great way to test the electric wheelchair for the first time and make sure it's comfortable for you. Many rental places offer free demonstrations so you can familiarize yourself with the model before purchasing.
Take a few moments to examine your new electric chair before you use it for the first time. This could be the battery that must be charged, loose or missing parts or tires that are scuffed. You must address any issues immediately to avoid them affecting your driving experience.
Finally, make sure to label your power wheelchair with your name, telephone number, and a description of the model and serial number. This will aid you in case your power chair is lost in transit and will speed the process of getting it back to you.
Safety First
It's important that you understand the safety features of your electric wheelchair, and follow the best practices prior to traveling. This ensures an enjoyable and safe mobility experience. These security measures include:
Regular Battery Charging: Having a full battery can prevent unexpected problems and delays on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Condition: Make sure your tires are in good condition for maximum performance and safety.
Maneuverability - Ensure that your power chair is able to move through tight spaces. This includes turning radius as well as front and rear stability and electrical connections.
Battery Care: It's essential to ensure that your batteries are full at the night. This helps prevent battery degradation and extends the life of your battery.
Travelling in unfavorable weather or Terrain: Using your power wheelchair in harsh weather and terrain can cause damage to the device. It is recommended to have someone help you use the device until you are comfortable.
Air Travel: Airline employees may ask you questions regarding the dimensions of your wheelchair, type of battery and how it should be handled, and its weight. It is a good idea to prepare answers ahead of time so that you can respond to these questions quickly and confidently.
Rideshare: Ensure that you select a rideshare service that allows you to bring your power wheelchair along. This will let you have a large back seat for your chair, as well as allow you to be flexible in scheduling your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel. Train cars and buses equipped with wheelchair-accessible seating are the best choice for long-distance travel. Some cities and states also have accessible bus and train systems for wheelchair-bound passengers.
It is a good idea to check with the company to confirm that they can accommodate wheelchair users when you plan to travel on public transport. If possible, you can also request accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals. This means you can be sure that your accommodation is fully prepared for your arrival, and that your stay will be stress-free. Consider bringing along try these guys of ointment for muscle pain or cream to ease any soreness that may result from extended periods of sitting in your power wheelchair.
Transport
A portable electric wheelchair can make life so much easier for anyone who needs one. It will allow you to enjoy family vacations and discover new destinations without worrying about accessibility. It can also provide you with the freedom to go on around and complete your daily tasks without having to rely on anyone else to take you there.
However when it comes time to transport a power wheelchair, it is important to consider the size and weight of the wheelchair, as well as the vehicle you'll use to haul it. If you have a small vehicle, minivan or truck, it's likely that your wheelchair can fit inside the vehicle without difficulty. You may also be able fold the rear seats back to create more space in some vehicles.
If you have a larger vehicle, then it is recommended to consider ramps or wheelchair lifts as a way of moving the mobility device into and out of your vehicle. There are a variety of brands, such as Pride and EZ Lift, offer wheelchair lifts. These lifts can help you quickly and safely raise an electric chair that weighs a lot into a van, a full-sized SUV, or trunk of your preference.
You can also make use of a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This option requires a vehicle that has an attached hitch, and electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals, and lights.
Keep in mind that you'll have to maintain your wheelchair regularly. You'll need to have trained technicians inspect and service the device regularly to ensure that it is in good condition for transporting and general use. The last thing you want is for your wheelchair to be damaged while transporting or being used on a daily basis. This is why it's crucial to schedule regular maintenance services for your portable electric wheelchair. This will safeguard your investment, and help keep your electric wheelchair in good shape for many years. 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 keep your electric wheelchair is a climate-controlled space. Extreme temperatures can cause damage to the wiring of the chair and drain its batteries. Make sure your chair is protected from moisture and dust that could damage it. If you intend to store it outside, make sure you use a garage or shed with a cover. This will protect it from the weather. If you need to keep your power wheelchair in a climate-controlled space, take its batteries out and keep them in a separate place. This will stop them from freezing and slowing down your chair when you require it.
If you're traveling by car you can utilize a wheelchair travel bag that fits an electric wheelchair that folds down in even the smallest trunk space. This is particularly useful for long-distance trips such as vacations or visiting relatives. It is important to know the dimensions of the wheelchair when disassembled prior to selecting the right travel bag. Some models can be folded into multiple pieces that can be tucked into the trunk of a compact vehicle or a small SUV. Others are made in one piece.
Consult your airline before you fly to find out if there are any specific rules or regulations regarding the transportation of mobility aids. Certain airlines, for instance permit the use of a powered chair on board when the battery is removed and the chair is folded. Some of our most popular mobility devices, like the Jazzy Carbon folding powered wheelchair come with lithium batteries that are specifically designed for airline travel. If you do decide to take your wheelchair along, the lithium batteries can be checked or used as a carry-on item, based on the policies of the airlines.
Electric mobility wheelchairs are a great option to have fun and move around. We have a wide selection of the top-rated wheelchairs as well as mobility scooters so you can choose the right model for your needs and your lifestyle. Make sure you test various models and talk to an expert in the field of healthcare or a mobility expert prior to making your 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 wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent.