Disabled Vehicles – What You Need to Know Before You Make an Investment

There are many people whose quality of life has improved greatly since buying a scooter or powered wheelchair. If you or someone close to you struggles to get out and about then investing in a mobility vehicle can greatly improve levels of independence and confidence. Check out the guide below to help you make the best investment for your requirements.

What products are available?

Scooters

The scooter is one the most popular types of disabled vehicles. Scooters can have three or four wheels and are steered using a handle bar. These vehicles are battery powered and have controls on the handle bars to regulate the speed of the vehicle plus many have lights and a horn. Some models have a basket at the front or the back of the scooter which can be used for transporting shopping.  Scooters are available in a range of different models and sizes, some are very small and portable and are designed to be used in places like shopping centres and some are large four wheeled vehicles that come complete with waterproof covers. The majority of the small scooters can be folded away and many of the larger ones dismantled into sizeable parts so consider how often you would use the vehicle as to which model you choose. The price for the most basic scooter can be less than £400.

Powered wheelchairs

Powered wheelchairs have between four and six wheels and they are battery operated with the steering and speed of the vehicle usually being controlled by a joystick. The models range from styles which are very similar to a traditional wheelchair but with a motor, all the way through to more high-tech vehicles which have many extras to increase comfort and safety. These additional features include height adjustable and reclining seats, elevating leg rests and lights. Some even feature kerb climbing devices which allow the user to drive the wheelchair up or down a kerb comfortably. Models of powered wheelchairs are available which can be folded away so you should also consider how often you’ll use the wheelchair and how long it will remain in storage. The price for a basic powered wheelchair usually starts from £800.

Assess your needs

As there is such a variety of makes and models available, before you choose your vehicle you should properly assess what you will use it for. A small foldable scooter may be ideal for a trip to the shops but it wouldn’t be suitable for muddy conditions or uneven ground. Before making an investment, you should consider where you will store the vehicle, whether you will need to transport it by car and also what terrains you require it for such as country paths or narrow pavements found in many town centres.

It’s also important to assess whether you would be more suited to a scooter or a powered wheelchair. If you struggle to stand then you may find the scooter unsuitable as it can sometimes be a difficult transition from a wheelchair to a scooter. If you have poor stability when sitting for example, then a powered wheelchair may be the better option as you can purchase extras to make the seat more comfortable.

Before you make a purchase it’s important to shop around to see what deals are available and to discuss your requirements with an expert so that you can buy the most suitable vehicle to give you optimum independence, safety and comfort.