Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair
Depending on the model You can choose from electric wheelchairs that range from 3 to 5 mph. Some models even fold and disassemble for easy transportation and airline travel.
Other aspects to consider include the weight capacity, seat width, and battery life. You might also consider a warranty or after-sales services.
Getting Started
battery-powered wheelchairs could change your life. It lets people explore new areas, attend events, and maintain an independence that wouldn't be possible with other mobility solutions. There are certain things you need to be aware of before taking your new power wheelchair on the road.
The best way to travel with an electric chair is via car. This way, you have control over how the wheelchair is loaded and secured to avoid damage. If you decide to fly, be sure to contact the airline prior to departure and provide them with important information about your wheelchair. Include the dimensions, the type and location of the batteries as well as the best way to handle it. You may also want to attach a laminated instruction sheet to help the staff at the airport manage it safely and in a safe manner.
If you don't own the vehicle that can carry your electric wheelchair, you can still take public transportation or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services have lifts that can accommodate motorized wheelchairs. But, make sure to ask the service provider ahead of time if they have enough trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair.
Renting a wheelchair or scooter at your destination is an alternative option. This is a fantastic opportunity to try out an electric chair for the first time, and make sure it's comfortable. Many rental locations offer a free demonstration so you can familiarize yourself with the wheelchair before you purchase.
Before your first outing in your electric wheelchair, take the time to examine it thoroughly for any issues that require to be addressed. This could be a battery that needs to be charged, loose or missing parts, or scuffing tires. If you spot any issues, make sure to take care of them immediately so that they don't hinder your road trip experience.
Label your power wheelchair with the name of the model and serial number. Also, include your name and contact number. This will help should your wheelchair ever get lost in transit and could accelerate the process of getting it back to you.
Safety First
It is essential to understand the safety features of your electric wheelchair and follow the most effective practices prior to travelling. This will allow you enjoy a safer mobility experience. This includes
Regular Battery Charging : A fully charged battery will avoid unexpected failures on the road.
Wheelchair Tire Condition: Ensure that your tires are in good condition for maximum performance and security.
Maneuverability: Make sure your chair is able to be maneuvered in tight areas. This includes turning radius as well as rear and front stability, and electrical connections.
Battery Care: It's essential to ensure your batteries are fully charged at night. This minimizes battery degradation and extends its life.
Traveling in unfavorable terrain or Weather: Using a power chair on extreme terrain and weather could cause damage to the device. It is recommended to have someone to assist you in unfamiliar conditions until you're comfortable enough to use it alone.
Air Travel: Staff at the airport may inquire about your wheelchair size, dimensions as well as the type of battery and how to maneuver it, and its weight. Make sure you have your answers prepared so you can respond quickly and confidently to these questions.
Rideshare: Pick a rideshare service that allows you to take your wheelchair with you. This will enable you to have a spacious backseat for your chair, and also give you flexibility in the scheduling of your transportation.
Train and Bus Travel by Train and Bus. Buses and train cars equipped with wheelchair-accessible seating are the best option for long-distance travel. In addition, some cities and states have train and bus systems that are fully accessible to wheelchair-bound passengers.
It is a good idea to verify with the company whether they will accommodate wheelchair users if you plan to travel on public transport. If you are able, you can also request accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals. You can be sure that your accommodations will be waiting for you upon arrival, and that your stay will be hassle-free. You might want to bring along a bottle of cream or ointment to treat any muscle pain that could occur from prolonged periods of sitting in a power wheelchair.
Transport
Anyone who needs a portable electric wheelchair will find it much easier to maneuver around. It allows you to discover new destinations and enjoy family vacations without worrying about accessibility or finding a place to park. It also gives you the freedom to run errands and do day-to-day things without relying on someone else to get you there.
However when it comes time to transport a power wheelchair, it is important to consider the weight and size of the wheelchair, as well as the vehicle you'll use to transport it. If you own a small vehicle, like minivans or trucks then it's likely that your wheelchair can fit inside the vehicle without issue. In some cases you might be able to fold the rear seats of your vehicle to create additional space.
If you own a larger vehicle, then it is recommended to consider ramps or wheelchair lifts as a way of moving the mobility device in and out of your car. There are a wide range of vehicle lift solutions for your wheelchair from various brands, including Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts can help you safely and easily raise a heavy electric chair into a van, a full-sized SUV or trunk of your preference.
You can transport your electric wheelchair on trailers. This option requires a vehicle that has a hitch and electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals and lights.
You should also keep in mind that you will need to keep your wheelchair maintained regularly. It is essential that trained technicians check and maintain the device regularly to ensure it's in good working order for transport and use in general. You do not want your wheelchair to be damaged during transport or everyday use. This is the reason it's so important to schedule regular professional maintenance services for your electric wheelchair that is portable. This will protect your investment and keep your electric wheelchair in good condition for years to come. A well-maintained chair will allow you to live your life to the fullest while maintaining a high degree of independence.
Storage
The best place to keep your electric wheelchair is in a climate-controlled space. Extreme temperatures can harm the chair's wiring and drain its batteries. Keep your chair free of dust and moisture. Both of them can harm it. If you are storing it outside, be sure to use an enclosed shed or garage with the cover. This will shield it from the weather. If you have to keep your chair in a non-climate-controlled space, take out the batteries and store them separately. This will prevent them from freezing and slowing your chair when you require it.
You can make use of a travel bag for a wheelchair that can fit a folding electric chair in even the tiniest trunk of a car. This is especially helpful for long-distance travel like trips to the beach or visiting relatives. It's important to find out the dimensions of the wheelchair when disassembled prior to choosing a bag for travel. Some models can fold in multiple pieces that fit into the back of a compact vehicle or small SUV, while others are made as one piece.
If you're planning to fly, it's a good idea to check with your airline ahead of time to find out if they have specific rules and regulations for transporting mobility aids. Certain airlines, like permit the use of powered chairs on board when the battery is removed and the chair has been folded. Many of our most well-known mobility devices, such as the Jazzy Carbon folding powered wheelchair, have lithium batteries designed specifically for airline travel. If you choose to bring your wheelchair with you on the plane, the lithium batteries can be tested or used as a carry-on item, based on the airline's policies.
Electric travel wheelchairs are a great option to have fun and move around. We have a wide selection of the best-rated wheelchairs and mobility scooters, so you can choose the right model for your needs and lifestyle. Before you make a decision you should test several models and talk to a mobility specialist or healthcare professional. If you're planning a stroll in the park or using an Uber or Lyft to meet friends, a portable electric wheelchair will help you stay mobile and independent.