Electric Scooters for the Handicapped and Slightly Disabled

At one time if you got about on wheels and it was battery powered, it was called an electric wheelchair. But now there are mobility scooters for the person who is able to climb into and out of the vehicle unaided and able to operate it himself.

A scooter may be ideal for you if:

· You can climb into and out of it unaided

· You can drive the scooter yourself

· You can see well enough to drive the scooter

· You have good sitting balance

A powered wheelchair may be ideal for you if:

· You need help getting into and out of your vehicle

· You can’t operate the handlebar type controls

· You need support for your legs

In looking at scooters I saw many similarities between the products, most had a weight limit of 250 pounds, the scooter could come apart for easy portability, and the battery could be removed easily for recharging.

When you see the distances that these scooters are reported as being capable of, please note the following points:

• It is estimated on the level on a perfectly smooth surface.
• The weight of the rider - the heavier the rider, the slower it will go, and also the shorter distance it will cover.
• If you ride it up the slightest slope, the distance will deteriorate.
• If you carry shopping on it, the speed and distance will deteriorate.

One main choice is whether to get a 3 wheel scooter or a 4 wheel scooters. While the 3 wheel scooters look less stable, they are all fitted with anti-tipping devices. The 3 wheel scooters tend to have better maneuverability.

It is NOT recomended that you use it in the wet weather (although many people risk it) because of all the electrical components in its construction.

Powered wheelchairs are more specialized than scooters, and the price is a reflection of this. For those needing a little help with their mobility, here are a few scooter options you may wish to consider.

If going from standing to sitting and back again is difficult, you may wish to consider the Segway. There are now many versions of the Segway including one with a seat.

Go-Go Ultra 3 Wheel Travel Scooter

• 250 lbs weight capacity
• Available in 3-wheel and 4-wheel models
• 10 mi. range per battery charge
• Breaks apart into Five light-weight pieces

Drive Medical Phoenix 3 Wheel Compact Portable Travel Power Scooter, Red / Blue

• 250 lbs weight capacity
• Available in 3-wheel and 4-wheel models
• 15 mi. range per battery charge
• Breaks apart into Four light-weight pieces

Shoprider Scootie Three Wheel Compact Travel Scooter

Lightweight and easy to transport, although called 3-wheeled, it actually has 4 wheels. The patented articulating front wheels give 4-wheel stability with 3-wheel maneuverability.

• 225 lbs weight capacity

Pride Mobility Celebrity X 3-Wheel Electric Scooter

• 350 lbs weight capacity
• Available in 3-wheel and 4-wheel models
• Extra leg room
• Comes with many additional features
  

Segway i180 Human Transporter

• Top speed of 12.5 mph

Segway X2

• Max Speed: 12.5 mph
• Max Range: 24 mi

Segway I2 with Segseat Seat Newest Generation Custom

• Max Speed: 12.5 mph
• Max Range: 16-24 mi