Mobility Scooter Basics
Mobility Scooters aren't the sort of thing everybody is familiar with. So if you're looking to learn the basics, you've found the right place
What is a mobility scooter?
Mobility scooters are small vehicles for those that need a little extra help getting around. They are powered by an electric motor and run on batteries. They can be used on footpaths, public spaces like parks and plazas, and some indoor spaces.
Why buy a mobility scooter?
Mobility scooters help you to take your life back. That might be something as simple as getting out of the house again, or it might be as exciting as international travel. For someone whose mobility is impaired, it’s hard to overstate how much of a positive impact a scooter can have on their life.
Why not something else, like a wheelchair?
There are a variety of mobility aids, and all come with their strengths and weaknesses. Mobility scooters are the go-to if you’re looking to go outdoors. This is because they do better over hills and bumps, have big batteries, and have a more stable base. They are more like a small golf-cart in that sense. Scooters are often a person’s first mobility aid, because it’s those longer outdoor trips that first present an issue. Ultimately though a lot comes down to personal preference, and personal needs. This is why we encourage getting in touch and having a chat.
What are the different types of scooter?
There are three main categories of scooter: portable scooters, large scooters, and medium scooters in between.
Safety & maintenance
Buying a scooter is only step one of many. Here are some things to keep in mind for what comes next. Mounties Care technicians and staff are happy to go over these in greater detail either in person or over the phone.
Road rules
Mobility scooter users are classified as pedestrians. This means you can go anywhere a pedestrian can go including footpaths, shopping centres, and nature strips. But that also means that you should:
- Use pedestrian crossings or lights where possible
- Try to stay on footpaths
- Only use the road when absolutely necessary
- Be aware of other pedestrians around you
Safe use
Scooters are mostly intuitive to use, but in case you’re having some trouble, we are there to help. Mounties Care offers a comprehensive training session when the scooter is delivered, and we provide you with a certificate of competency once you have been trained. Some common issues that arise:
- Stopping and starting on hills
- Navigating Ramps and Gutters
- Maintaining good visibility
- Knowing the limits of the scooter
Maintenance
We recommend you service your scooter, usually once a year, but depending on how often you use it and how gently you treat it. These tune-ups usually take an hour or less and can be done in your home. Our scooters come with a comprehensive Owner’s Manual that gives a good overview on how and when to look after your scooter for maximum performance.
Batteries
Keeping the charge of your batteries topped up means they last longer. Both the charger and batteries come with your scooter. If you get a lot of use out of the scooter, you will need to replace the batteries after 2 years, provided you charge them each time after use. So make sure you factor in a charging point that’s convenient and easily accessible. It’s always important to make sure the batteries are matched to the scooter and to the charger. Using the wrong batteries or charger will reduce range and life, and may damage the electronics.
Theft
While rare, theft of mobility scooters does happen, particularly from the home or shopping centre. A few things to keep in mind:
- Use a chain, u-lock, padlock or immobiliser when the scooter is not in use.
- The steering on many scooters can be locked. Use this feature if possible
- Always remove the ignition key
- Make sure you know the serial number of the scooter
Conclusion
Buying a mobility scooter can be a daunting prospect, perhaps even an admission that life is entering a new phase. But they also provide some of the most drastic quality of live improvements to those who embrace them. There's no substitute for being able to go see the world on one's own initiative, whether that be the shops or church or just down the road to sample the ocean breeze. Mounties Care is just a phone call away if you think that sounds good to you.
