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Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter Buying a mobility scooter is a major financial investment. Fortunately, private insurance companies and government programs such as Medicare often reimburse the cost of a scooter when it's medically required. Individuals with mobility limitations should be familiarized with the different types of scooters that are available to them. Buyers must first know their own requirements and objectives. What to Consider There are a lot of things to take into consideration when selecting the best mobility device. There is no one size that fits all – and the wrong mobility scooter could lead to problems such as a poor fit, a poor battery life, or even safety issues. What are your parents planning to use the scooter for? Are they planning to use it to complete out for errands or to shop? If so, a light mobility device with a long-lasting battery would be the best choice. If they plan to travel over bumpy or rough terrain, a four-wheel scooter with larger wheels might be the best option. Keep in mind that your parent's physical health may change in the near future, so you'll need to consider whether they'll still be able to drive their mobility scooter in a few months or years. If not, they might require a change in their mobility scooter or think about a more permanent option like a power chair. Before you make a final decision, you should encourage your child to try out a variety of mobility scooters . They can test out how comfortable the seat is and see if they can reach the handle. They should also sit on the driver's side to ensure that the scooter is suited to them and is comfortable. Ask your local dealer about used scooters. You can also inquire with rental companies to find out whether they have used scooters for sale. If you decide to purchase an used scooter, it is important to review the warranty and other specifics to make sure that you are getting what you purchased. Seating Some people purchase scooters with two seats in the hope of being able to transport family members or friends who want to accompany them on their travels. There are privacy issues if those who will be with you are not of the same weight. This could mean that they will be bumping into each other and creating issues with personal space. If you're worried about these issues it's recommended to opt for a scooter with a seat behind instead of one which has two seats in the front and back. With a scooter with two seats, you'll be able to not just enjoy the company of a relative or a friend but also save money by not purchasing two mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear as well as electricity by using just one scooter that you can operate and share costs for fuel. There are many seating options available when shopping for a 2-seat mobility scooter. Some models have the driver's seat at the front and the passenger's seat behind. Some models include both seats in the rear. The majority of mid-range scooters have this configuration however more advanced and expensive scooters could come with an front seat or a rear seat only. Another option is to purchase an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which allows you to effortlessly move the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. You can cut down on time and effort by buying an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift. All you have to do is place the scooter on the lift's platform and then turn the switch. You can then leave and when you are ready to return, you can reverse the process. Wheels The wheels of a mobility scooter may make or ruin the experience of riding. A good set of tires will provide you with an easy, comfortable ride, but old or damaged ones can be dangerous. You should inspect your tires regularly and replace them if they become worn. There are three types of scooter tires: pneumatic, foam-filled, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are never flat, but are harder to maneuver than pneumatic tires. Most portable and travel scooters have foam-filled or solid tires, whereas most all-terrain and full-size scooters have pneumatic tires. The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air similar to the bicycle or motorbike tire. They're the most common type of scooter tire and they can be easily repaired. There are tires that come with liners that fit between the tire's outer and inner tube, providing added protection against punctures. The owner's manual will inform you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will help them last longer. The majority of scooters are controlled by tillers which are T-shaped columns that turn the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls like speed and turning signals may be found on the tiller too. Some tillers have handles that wrap around also known as delta tillers which are great for those who have limited hand dexterity or strength. Batteries Having the right type of battery in your scooter is vital. The right battery will make your scooter last longer. You should also keep in the mind that batteries lose performance as they age. If you're noticing that your battery isn't holding charge as well as it used to, it could be a sign that it is in need of replacement. If you're looking to ensure that your battery lasts for a long time, then it is worthwhile to invest in a gel battery or an AGM battery. These batteries are more resistant to shaking because they have an airtight structure and an immobile electrolyte. They also have a longer life than other lead acid batteries. However, they are slightly more expensive upfront, although their durability makes them affordable in the long term. Another option is to choose an lithium battery. They're a bit more expensive in the beginning, but they can provide up to 10 times the longevity of lead-acid batteries. Plus, they are suitable for travel in the air and are available with a certificate from the IATA. It is crucial to take a look at the label of the battery for your scooter to determine the model and brand name. If you use a generic or offbrand battery could cause damage to the scooter and cause it to not function properly. If you own an old battery that was recharged using another charger, it may not function the same way. Contact the manufacturer to determine if your scooter requires an extra powerful battery. Typically, they'll have an inventory of compatible batteries that are recommended for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any documentation of maintenance, when you purchase an old mobility device. These records can help determine whether the battery is old and if it's been serviced. Safety A scooter can be a lifesaver for those who are unable to walk because of age or illness, but only if it's used correctly. A mistake in use could cause injuries to the user or people who are around them. To avoid this, it's vital to know what you should look for when purchasing a mobility scooter prior making the purchase. Make sure that the scooter comes with an operating manual that provides specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and a maintenance schedule. Keep the manual in your possession and read it for reference when using the scooter. Test drive the scooter to see how comfortable it feels, and whether you can operate it using both hands. The scooter must also be able to handle the weight you'll be carrying. Verify the ground clearance of the scooter to ensure it is able to travel over bumps and other obstacles. Travel/portable models have less clearance than full-sized scooters, and special models could have even lower clearance. If you're buying a used scooter, inquire about the history of its maintenance and repairs. Individual sellers may have records of repairs or replacements for parts, and these documents can provide valuable insight into the condition of the scooter prior to you purchase it. You should consider purchasing a security device for your scooter, such as a clamp, to prevent theft. The device attaches to the scooter's wheel and can't be removed without tools, so it's an effective deterrent for thieves. It's a good idea also to get familiar with the area you're planning to travel in, especially places where scooter users might have issues. Know the location of curb cuts and streets that do not have sidewalks so that you are able to avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting friends.