How to choose the right mobility scooter for you

Mobility Scooter: How to Choose the Right One


If you’re struggling to get around due to mobility issues, a motorized wheelchair or a power scooter is a great choice. We understand your desire for the freedom to go when and where you want. With a variety of mobility scooters, they can help improve your quality of life and keep you moving.

The Best Mobility Scooter for Your Needs

Before you get too far into your search, you need to determine what you need from a mobility scooter to find the best one for you. Here are several considerations as you start shopping.

Mobility Scooter Wheels

One of the first components you’ll look at is the number of wheels on the scooter. Mobility scooters have either three or four wheels, and you can decide which setup best suits your needs. To make this decision, you should consider where you plan to utilize your scooter most often. If it will primarily be used indoors, a 3-wheel scooter that maneuvers corners better may be ideal. It is important you also consider doorway widths to ensure the scooter will fit through. If you plan on primarily using the scooter outdoors, a 4-wheel scooter is recommended to better handle the terrain. With a scooter that will primarily be used outdoors, ground clearance is an important factor to consider to avoid getting stuck.

Mobility Scooter Comfort and Safety

Two important elements of a disability scooter are how comfortable it is to operate and how well it’s designed to prevent accidents. Most scooters feature adjustable seats and armrests, which provides more flexibility to customize the fit.

Mobility Scooter Portability

It’s important to consider if you will need to transport the mobility scooter by car. If you will need transportation for your disability scooter, you may consider purchasing an exterior lift or an interior lift to add to your vehicle Adding a lift to your vehicle helps you to be more mobile.

Mobility Scooter Storage Capabilities

In addition to safely getting you around, you will want to consider adding additional storage options to your scooter to transport your things. Storage options for scooters include rear baskets, front baskets, under-seat storage, locking storage compartments that are covered to protect your items, and more. These storage solutions make getting around with your things a breeze.

Mobility Scooter Accessories

In addition to storage solutions, there are a wide variety of accessories available to make your scooter stand out in a crowd! Whether you’re in need of a cane clip attachment, rearview mirror, crutch, cell phone, can, or cup holder, or a weather cover we have an accessory to match your needs

Before Buying: FAQs about Handicap Scooters

How do I know what mobility scooter is right for me?

Before you get too far into your search, you need to determine your reasons for wanting a mobility scooter. The following questions may help:

  1. Where am I going to use this mobility scooter the most?
  2. How often do I plan to use the scooter?
  3. How will I benefit the most from this scooter?

Answer each question as thoroughly as possible. Knowing where, how, and how often you plan to use the mobility scooter will help you to narrow down what type of scooter would best suit your needs. Our trained and professional staff are ready to help you select the best option for your mobility needs. Contact us today to get started.

How do I pay for a mobility scooter?

Medicare or your private insurance may cover part of the device if it is medically necessary. Contact your insurance provider to determine the specifics of your plan. United Access also offers mobility equipment financing with no down payment or hidden fees for those paying out of pocket.

What is feather-touch disassembly?

Most of our mobility scooters are equipped with feather-touch one-hand disassembly which allows you to easily transition from the full scooter to five manageable pieces.

What’s the difference between 3-wheel and 4-wheel mobility scooters?

Some mobility scooters are compact in size, designed for indoor use, and/or for portability and travel. Other power scooters may be better suited for heavy-duty outdoor use as they are sturdy enough to travel over uneven and rugged terrain. Generally speaking, 3-wheel mobility scooters are better for indoor use, while 4-wheel scooters are better suited for outdoor use.

How fast are mobility scooters?

The maximum speed of a mobility scooter is dependent on the engine of the scooter you select but typically the speed ranges from 3-8 miles per hour.

How much are disability scooters?

The price to purchase a mobility scooter varies depending on brand, size, features, and accessories, but usually runs from around $1,400 to over $3,000 or more.

Does insurance cover mobility scooters?

Insurance may cover the cost of your mobility scooter, depending on what insurance you have. The process typically takes several months because of the amount of paperwork and doctor visits needed for approval. After getting approved, you’re also going to be limited to only being able to purchase a mobility product that is sufficient at most, meaning you typically won’t be able to buy that fancy model with all the extra bells and whistles you wanted. Speak with your insurance company to see if you’re eligible.

Does Medicare help pay for a mobility scooter?

Possibly.  First, you need to be enrolled in original Medicare and meet the Power Mobility Device (PMD) eligibility requirements. You'll only be approved if you need a scooter to move around in your home. There is no coverage for scooters needed outside.

You'll need to meet with your doctor who takes Medicare, and they'll evaluate your medical condition and prescribe a mobility scooter if necessary. The doctor will create a prescription that notifies Medicare that the scooter is necessary for your needs.

United Access has partnered with Pride Mobility, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of mobility products, to offer our customers a wide variety of mobility scooters. Contact us today to get started.

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