Mobility scooters are used by many people who have difficulty walking. They can greatly increase your ability to independently and freely move around. With all the many types and models of mobility scooters available on the market today, it is a good idea to have an idea of what you need and expect from your mobility scooter before you buy it.
One of the most important considerations is where you intend to use your mobility scooter. Do you only need it indoors? Are you planning on using it outdoors over rough terrain? Most mobility scooters can be used both indoors and out, but some are better suited for the outdoors then others. A 4-wheel mobility scooter is typically better for outdoors. It is more stable than a 3-wheel scooter and it is also better suited to handle rough terrain. 3-wheel scooters are better for indoor use though, because they have a much smaller turning radius, which makes it easier to navigate tight corners.
Another consideration is whether you intend to take your mobility scooter away from the home. If you plan on traveling frequently then a travel scooter may be a good choice. Travel scooters have less features than a traditional mobility scooter, but they can quickly and easily be disassembled into several easy to manage pieces. They fit easily into the trunk of a car and can be placed on a plane easily. If you do not have a travel scooter, then you will likely need to buy some sort of vehicle scooter carrier. There are several types of scooter carriers. External scooter carriers attach to a vehicles hitch. Internal scooter carriers either use a winch system to lift it into the car or use a small platform that extends from the back of the car. A third option for scooter transport is a vehicle ramp, which allows you to drive the scooter straight into the vehicle.
The safety features of the mobility scooter should also be considered. If you intend to use it frequently outdoors, then it is a good idea to purchase a scooter that has an adequate set of lights. This includes blinkers, headlights, and running lights. There are two different types of scooter tires available as well. Solid foam filled tires are great because they never need to be filled with air and are puncture proof. They do not provide as good of a ride as air filled tires, which also can be adjusted to accommodate different terrains.
By thoroughly analyzing your needs before you begin shopping, you will be able to better select a mobility scooter.