Mobility Scooters
A Guide to Buying or Renting a Mobility Scooter
Mobility Scooters, or electric scooters as they are sometimes known, are aids to help those with mobility or disability problems get around easier. They have significantly grown in popularity over the last few years as cheaper mobility scooters have become available, and as the aging UK population has increased. The increase in other health issues such as the rising obesity problem we have in the UK has also contributed to a rise in the number of mobility scooters on our roads and in public spaces. If you, or a member of your family, suffer from health issues that affect your mobility and limit the independence you have, then an electric mobility scooter can provide the ideal solution to giving you a newfound freedom. These days mobility scooters are very affordable, and are available to buy brand new, used, or even to rent. There are mobility scooter suppliers across the UK, and our directory can help you find the right supplier near you whether you are looking to buy or rent. A mobility scooter is somewhat akin to a wheelchair but is configured like a motorscooter, and is suitable for anyone with limited mobility. Mobility scooters typically come in three or four wheel models, with a seat over the back two wheels, which may swivel to facilitate easy access. Handlebars are positioned over the two front wheels (or single wheel in some models), and the scooter is steered with the handlebars. Most mobility scooters today are battery powered and electric, although some gas versions are still available.
What mobility scooter is right for you will depend largely on your health restrictions and what you intend to use the scooter for. Some scooters are more designed for light, indoor or short distance use; whereas more sturdier models are suitable for regular daily usage and prolonged outdoor service. It is very important to research the different models available, along with what your specific needs are. Many mobility scooter suppliers will offer free consultation and advice to assist you select the right scooter. Some suppliers even offer free home trials prior to purchasing.
Remember, you can also rent mobility scooters – so you can always try out a few before committing to buying one. As a very general guide electric mobility scooters can travel a distance of approximately 30 miles from one battery charge. The speed range is between 4mph to 8mph dependent on the model, and determined by the gear lever.
Class 3, 8mph mobility scooters are considered road legal, and thus can be used on roads in the UK. These scooters must have lights and indicators. However, it is strongly recommended to ensure you enhance your visibility on a mobility scooter if you intend to use it on the road. There are a number of mobility scooter accessories than can help with this.
A mobility scooter can eliminate much of the manual strength issues associated with using a manual wheelchair, however, you must have reasonable upper body posture and mobility to operate the steering system of an electric mobility scooter.
A whole range of mobility scooters are on the market today and available across the UK, from portable folding mobility scooters to rugged all-terrain vehicles. The main brands in mobility scooters in the UK are Pride, Electromotion, Scootamatic, Horizon, Monarch, ProRider, ShopRider, Sunrise Medical, FreeRider, TGA and Electric Mobility. Check out our directory pages to find your local distributor. Remember purchasing from a local supplier or distributor ensures that you can access service and parts easily, it also helps to sustain your local economy.
The Department of Transport has not made insurance compulsory for mobility scooters yet, although it does strongly recommend that individuals take out an insurance policy to cover their mobility scooter and its purpose of use.
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