Safety Measures to Follow When Traveling With an Electric Travel Wheelchair Electric wheelchairs can be found in models that have speeds of 3 to 5 3 to 5 mph. Some models can be folded and disassembled for easy transportation and travel on airlines. Consider the seat width as well as the weight capacity and battery life. It is also possible to look for a warranty and after-sales service. Getting Started A portable electric wheelchair could transform your life. It allows individuals to explore new places as well as attend events and maintain a level of independence that wouldn't be possible with other mobility options. However, there are some things you should know before you can take your new power chair on the road. The best method of traveling with an electric chair is by car. This way, you have control over how it's loaded and secured to prevent damage. If you do choose to fly, be sure to call the airline prior to departure and provide them with vital information regarding your wheelchair. Include the dimensions, the type and location of batteries, and also how you will handle it. You might want to include a laminated instructions sheet to assist airline personnel to safely and properly handle the item. If you don't own an automobile that can transport your electric wheelchair, you can still take public transportation or use ride-sharing companies like Uber or Lyft. Many of these services have lifts that can be used to accommodate a motorized wheelchair. However, be sure to inquire with the service provider ahead of time whether they have the trunk space to accommodate your wheelchair. Another option is to rent the scooter or wheelchair at the location you want to go. This is a fantastic opportunity to test an electric chair for the first time and ensure that it's comfortable. A lot of wheelchair and scooter rental locations provide a free demonstration so that you can become familiar with the model and how it drives before buying. Spend a few minutes to look over your brand new electric chair prior to you take it out for the first time. This can include batteries that need to be charged, missing or loose parts or tires that are scuffed. You must address any issues promptly to avoid them impacting your driving experience. Label your power wheelchair with the name of the model and serial number. Also, include your name and contact number. This will aid you in case your power wheelchair is lost during transport and could help speed the process of getting it returned to you. Safety First It is essential to understand the safety features of your electric wheelchair and follow best practices before traveling. This will help you to enjoy a safe mobility experience. These safety measures include Regular battery charging: Having a full battery can prevent unexpected failures and delays on the road. Wheelchair Tire Condition: Ensure that your tires are in good shape to ensure optimal performance and security. Maneuverability - Make sure your power chair is able to maneuver in tight spaces. This includes turning radius, front and rear stability as and electrical connections. Keep your batteries charged throughout the night. This will minimize battery degradation and prolong its life. Travelling in unfavorable weather or Terrain: Using your power wheelchair in harsh conditions or terrain can cause damage to the device. It is recommended to have someone assist you with using the device until you are at ease. Air Travel: Airline personnel may ask you questions regarding the dimensions of your wheelchair, type of battery and how it should be handled, and the weight it carries. It's a good idea to prepare your answers in advance to be able to answer these questions quickly and confidently. Rideshare: Make sure that you choose a rideshare service that allows you to bring your power wheelchair along. This will enable you to have a comfortable back seat for your chair, and give you flexibility in the scheduling of your transportation. Bus and Train Travel: Trains and buses with seats specifically designed for people who are wheelchair-bound are the best options for long distances of travel. Some cities and states also offer accessible train and bus services for wheelchair users. It's a smart idea to confirm with the company that they can accommodate wheelchair users when you plan to use public transport. If you are able, you can also request accessible accommodations in hotels or vacation rentals. You can rest assured that your accommodations will be ready for you when you arrive and that your stay will be trouble-free. Consider bringing along a bottle of ointment for muscle pain or cream to ease any soreness that may result from extended periods of sitting in your power wheelchair. Transport Anyone who needs an electric wheelchair with a portability will find it much easier to get around. It allows you to take advantage of family vacations as well as explore new locations without having to worry about accessibility. It can also provide you with the freedom to run routine errands and other activities without having to depend on others to get you there. When transporting a wheelchair you must consider the weight and size of the wheelchair and the vehicle you'll be using to transport it. If you have a smaller vehicle, such as a minivan or truck, it is likely that your wheelchair will fit into the vehicle without a problem. In some instances, you may be able fold the rear seats of your vehicle to create additional space. If you own a large vehicle, a ramp or lift is a great option to transfer the mobility device in and out of your vehicle. You can find a variety of lifts for vehicles that can be used with your wheelchair from a variety of brands like Pride and EZ-Lift. These lifts will allow you to effortlessly and safely lift a heavy electric chair into a van, full-sized SUV, or trunk of your choice. Alternately, you could use a trailer to transport your electric wheelchair. This option requires a vehicle that has an attached hitch, as well as electrical wiring to power the trailer's brakes and turn signals and lights. Keep in mind that you will need to maintain your wheelchair regularly. You'll want to have the wheelchair inspected and serviced by a trained technician to ensure that it's in good shape to be used and transported. You don't want your wheelchair be damaged during transport or regular use. It is important to schedule professional maintenance for your electric wheelchair that is portable. This will safeguard your investment and keep your electric wheelchair in top shape for many years. A well-maintained chair can help you live your life to the fullest while maintaining a high level of independence. Stores The best place to keep your electric wheelchair is in a climate-controlled area. Extreme temperatures will damage the chair's electrical wiring and drain its battery. Keep your wheelchair away from moisture and dust, which can also damage it. If you keep it outdoors, use a shed or garage with a cover to protect it from the elements. If you must keep your power wheelchair in a climate controlled area, remove its batteries and store them separately. This will stop them from freezing and slowing down your chair when you require it. If you're traveling by car you can utilize a wheelchair bag that can fit a folding electric wheelchair even in the smallest trunk space. This is particularly useful for long-distance trips like vacations or visits to relatives. Before you pick the right travel bag it is important to know the dimensions of the chair once it is it is disassembled. Some models can fold into multiple pieces that fit into the back of a compact car or small SUV, whereas others are made as one piece. If you're planning on flying in the near future, it's a good idea to check with your airline ahead of time to determine whether they have any specific rules and regulations about transporting mobility aids. For instance certain airlines will only allow an electric wheelchair in the event that it's been folded and its batteries removed. Some of our most popular mobility aids like the Jazzy Carbon folding power wheelchair include lithium batteries specifically designed for use on airline flights. If you choose to bring your power wheelchair with you on the plane, lithium batteries can either be checked in or taken with you as carry-ons, based on the policies of the airline. An electric travel wheelchair is a great option to move around and live your life more fully. We offer a broad selection of the best-rated wheelchairs and mobility scooters to help you select the perfect model to suit your requirements and lifestyle. Make sure you test various models and speak to an expert in healthcare or a mobility specialist before making your final purchase. If you're planning a stroll through the park or using an Uber or Lyft to meet with friends, a portable electric wheelchair will help you stay mobile and independent.