Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Depending on the model You can choose from electric wheelchairs that can go from 3 to 5 mph. Some models even fold down 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 look into a warranty or post-sales services.
Getting Started
A portable electric wheelchair can change your life. It allows people to explore new areas, attend events and maintain an amount of independence that wouldn't be possible with any other mobility option. There are certain things you need to be aware of prior to taking your new power wheelchair out on the road.
The best way to travel with electric chairs is to travel by car. You can regulate how it is loaded and secured, which will help prevent damage. Contact the airline ahead of time and provide them with the necessary information about your wheelchair. This includes the dimensions, type of batteries and how it should be handled. You might want to include a laminated instruction sheet to assist airline personnel safely and correctly handle the item.
If you don't have a vehicle that is able to transport your electric wheelchair, you can make use of public transportation or ride-share companies like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services offer lifts that can accommodate motorized wheelchairs. You should inquire ahead of time whether the service provider has enough room in its trunk for your wheelchair.
Another option is to lease an electric scooter or wheelchair at the location you want to go. This is a great opportunity to try out an electric chair for the first time, and make sure it's comfortable. Many rental locations offer free demonstrations so you can familiarize yourself with the device before purchasing.
Before your first outing in your new electric wheelchair take the time to thoroughly inspect it for any issues that require to be addressed. This could be a battery that needs to be charged, loose or missing parts or tires that are scuffed. It is important to address any issues immediately to avoid them affecting your driving experience.
Label your wheelchair with the name of the model and serial number. Also, include your name and phone number. This will assist you in the event that your power chair is lost in transit and can help speed the process of getting it returned to you.
Safety First
Before using an electric wheelchair, you need to understand the safety features that are built into your device and adhere to the best practices. This will help you have a safe mobility experience. These precautions include:
Regular Battery Charging: A fully charged battery can prevent unexpected failures while driving.
Wheelchair Tire Condition: Ensure that your tires are in good condition for maximum performance and security.
Maneuverability: Make sure that your power chair can maneuver in tight spaces. This includes turning radius and front and rear stability as and electrical connections.
Battery Care: It's important to keep your batteries in good condition at night. This helps prevent battery degradation and extends its life.
Traveling in a weather that isn't favorable or Terrain: Operating your power wheelchair in extreme conditions and terrain could cause damage to the device. It is best to have a person assist you in operating the device in new environments until you feel confident enough to operate it on your own.
Air Travel: Staff at the airline may inquire regarding your wheelchair and its dimensions and battery type, how to handle it, and the weight. Make sure you have your answers prepared so you can respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Ensure that you choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your electric wheelchair along. This will give you a spacious backseat to accommodate your wheelchair, and you'll also have more flexibility in scheduling your transportation.
airline approved electric wheelchair and Train Travel: Buses and trains with seats that are specifically reserved for passengers in wheelchairs are the best options for commuting long distances. Some cities and states also have accessible train and bus systems for wheelchair-bound passengers.
It's a smart idea to check with the company to confirm that they can accommodate wheelchair users when you plan to travel by public transportation. Additionally, you should request accessible accommodations at hotels or vacation rentals if possible. This means you can be certain that your accommodations will be ready for your arrival and your visit will be hassle-free. Additionally, consider bringing the bottle of muscle pain ointment or cream to ease any soreness that might result from prolonged sitting in your power wheelchair.
Transport
Anyone who needs an electric wheelchair with a portability will find it much easier to get around. It can help you explore new places and enjoy family holidays without having to worry about accessibility or having to locate a place to park. 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 get you there.
When transporting a wheelchair you must take into consideration its weight and size and also the vehicle you will be using to transport it. If you have a small minivan, car or truck, then it's likely that your wheelchair will fit into the vehicle with no problem. You may also be able fold the rear seats back to create more space in some vehicles.
If you own an extra large vehicle, 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 variety of brands, such as Pride and EZ Lift provide wheelchair lifts. These lifts can help you safely and easily raise a heavy electric chair into a van, large SUV, or trunk of your preference.
You can also make use of a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This requires an automobile with a hitch and electrical wiring for your trailer's lights, turn signals, and brakes.
It is important to keep in mind that you'll have to keep your wheelchair maintained regularly. You'll want to have the wheelchair inspected and serviced by a trained technician to ensure it's in good working order to be used and moved. You don't want your wheelchair be damaged during transport or regular use. This is why it's critical to schedule regular maintenance services for your portable electric wheelchair. This will help protect your investment and keep your wheelchair in good shape for many years to come. A well-maintained wheelchair can help you enjoy your life to the fullest while keeping a high degree of independence.
Stores
The best place to keep your electric wheelchair is in a climate-controlled area. Extreme temperatures can cause damage to the chair's wiring and deplete its batteries. Keep your wheelchair out of dust and moisture. Both can damage it. If you intend to store it outside, be sure to use a garage or shed with a cover. This will shield it from weather. If you need to keep your electric wheelchair in a climate-controlled area, remove its batteries and keep them in a separate place. This will prevent them from freezing and slowing down your chair when you require it.
You can make use of a bag for traveling with a wheelchair that will fit an electric chair that folds inside the tiniest trunk of a car. This is especially helpful when you are traveling for a long time, like vacations, or when visiting relatives. Before choosing the right travel bag it is important to be aware of the dimensions of the chair when taken apart. Some models can be folded into multiple pieces to fit into the trunk of a compact vehicle or a small SUV. Some are built as a single piece.
Check with your airline prior to when you travel to determine whether there are any specific rules or regulations regarding the transportation of mobility aids. Some airlines, for example will only permit the use of powered chairs on board if the battery is removed and the chair has been folded. Some of our most sought-after mobility aids like the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair come with lithium batteries that are specifically designed for use on airline flights. If you choose to bring your wheelchair on board, the lithium batteries can be inspected or taken on as carry-on items, based on the policies of the airlines.
Electric travel wheelchairs are a great way to relax and get around. We have a broad range of top-rated wheelchairs and scooters, so you can find the ideal model to suit your lifestyle and requirements. Try various models and talk to a healthcare professional or mobility expert prior to making your purchase. A portable electric wheelchair can help you remain mobile and independent, whether walking in the park or an Uber or Lyft ride to meet friends.