Mobility Scooters:
Purchase Considerations

Daily Usage Requirements
How and where you plan to use your new scooter will help guide your selection process. Will your scooter primarily be used indoors around your home or apartment? Or do you plan to transport it to navigate retail centers, grocery stores, neighborhoods, parks and other public venues?

A three-wheeled model is typically smaller and allows greater maneuverability. Taking tight turns and navigating small or difficult spaces is easier.

Conversely, models with four wheels are usually heavier and more stable. They can carry more weight and travel easier over rough surfaces and uneven terrain.

Tire Selection
Choosing tires also is an important consideration. Some tires are designed with more shock-absorbing properties than others. You will also find tires that are resistant to puncturing, though they may feel stiffer as you traverse surfaces.

As with all tires, the width plays a role in the comfort and feel of your ride. Wider tires have more grip and provide increased stability.

The type of tires you select will be based on personal preference and where you plan to ride. An experienced sales representative can help suggest the right type of tires for your usage needs.

Seating Options
Comfort and mobility needs will guide your choice of seating. Options include swivel capabilities, lumbar supports, special padding and seat covering.

In addition, scooters can be purchased with powered seating adjustments that enable you to move your seat up and down, and forward and back to enhance visibility and ease of handling.

Steering
Most mobility scooters feature handle-bar style steering with controls that you can easily adjust with your fingers to change speed and direction. If you require a joystick or loop-style handle for steering, some manufacturers will readily adapt models to meet your needs.

Questions for the Seller
Here are some questions to ask during your selection process:

• Is a comprehensive evaluation of your mobility needs provided to ascertain the type of scooter that will best meet your requirements?

• What are the opportunities to test drive various models in your home or other environments in which you plan to use the equipment.

• What are the specifics of warranties and service plans?

• Is servicing and maintenance offered by the seller? Is work done on-site or will your model need to be shipped out-of-town to a maintenance facility? Also ask if you will be provided with a "loaner" scooter during servicing.

• What is the total cost of the purchase, including accessories, battery, charger and delivery?

• What is the delivery time?

• Will the seller assemble the scooter for you and provide training on the equipment?

It is always advisable to ask for buyer references and contact people who have bought mobility scooters from the dealer you are considering. Even more helpful would be to talk with a buyer who has purchased the model in which you are most interested.

Logistics
Electric chairs need regular charging so you will need to identify a place to charge and store your scooter. It is important to keep mobility scooters dry and free from dust and debris. If you do not have a garage or covered building for storage, consider buying a special cover to help maintain the condition of your scooter while not in use.

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