Considerations For Your Van's Scooter Lift
- When thinking about purchasing a scooter lift, there is more to consider than just how it will get the scooter in and out of the van. If you are about to purchase a lift for your mobility scooter, why not read the following tips to ensure that you buy the lift that will be just right for you and your wheel chair?
- Your first consideration when purchasing a lift for a scooter should be the access it will allow the other passengers in the van. Some scooter lifts block the doorway to the van, making it difficult for passengers to get in and out. If you have a need for passengers to ride in your van, be sure that the type of lift that you select will allow them easy entry. Consider a lift that attaches to the outside of your vehicle and allows the wheelchair or scooter to be carried on the exterior of the vehicle. The disadvantage of this type of set up is that the wheelchair, seats and all, could get wet or damaged from exposure to the elements. A cover for your wheelchair or scooter might be an appropriate accessory that will reduce this unnecessary risk.
- The lift for scooters will have switches that the user will need to be able to control. The lift switches will vary with each model, and so it’s vital to insure that the person using the lift can not only reach them, but operate them as well.
- All scooter lifts have edges around the borders of the platform. These lift edges keep the scooter from rolling off of the lift when it's in motion. The height on the chair lift edges can vary from model to model, and can quite possibly be the difference in whether or not the disabled user can operate the lift by themselves, or if they require assistance. It’s important to test the lift for this before making a purchase.
- Finally, you should check to make certain that if you select a lift that you will ride on in your scooter, the lift comes equipped with handrails or holding bars. This will make it easier for most people in a scooter to get themselves and their chair or scooter on and off of the scooter lift.