How to Choose a Mobility Scooter
Review the information below to help you decide on the important features to select the right mobility scooter for yourself or someone you love. However, don't hesitate to call and speak with a Scooter Direct sales representative to discuss the mobility scooters for sale at Scooter Direct.
Environmental Considerations
Make sure the scooter you select will work for you in the environment it will be used. Think through your day, where will your scooter be stored, can it be charged there? Do you need to take your scooter into the bathroom, how about the kitchen, etc.? Are you going to take your scooter outside, how will you get it outside? Do you need to take the scooter with you, how will you transport it? These are some of the considerations you need to consider before buying one of our new mobility scooters for sale. Below are more details about specific conditions and attributes of the scooter you need to consider.
INDOOR
Scooters used indoors must be able to fit through the doorways, must be able to turn from hallways into rooms and must be able to drive in and out of rooms you need to access. If the location is a commercial building this is fairly easy as most commercial locations must adhere to ADA standards. That is not the case if the indoor location is residential. So particular thought and planning needs to be considered. Remember to think beyond the length and width of the scooter and take the turning radius into account. The scooter has to be able to make a tight enough turn to get around an island in the kitchen or furniture.
INDOOR/OUTDOOR
This will be obvious but for mobility scooters used indoors and outdoors you need to verify the mobility scooter will meet the requirements of both environments. However, generally, any scooter that can be used indoors can be used on paved surfaces outdoors. If you are planning to use it on any surfaces other than pavement, then be sure to take those conditions into consideration. It may be that the mobility scooter will not work perfectly in both areas, and you will have to make a decision on which environment and features are most important to you.
OUTDOOR ONLY
For outdoor mobility scooter use, decide if you may still need to take the scooter into stores. Decide if your scooter needs a suspension system either because the terrain is rough or if you have medical issues such as a bad back. Do you require a lighting package or will you be using the scooter where it is already well-lit, such as a ballpark? Make sure to select a scooter that will last as long as you will need. For example, a Pride GoGo scooter with an 18AH battery pack can last all day at a theme park. But if you are traveling with a heavier scooter through rougher terrain, then you will need batteries that provide a longer travel distance per charge.
PORTABILITY IS IMPORTANT
Are you going to travel with your mobility scooter? Are you flying, cruising, driving, or will the scooter only be used around the house? Depending on where you are going, you need to think about how you’re going to get there. Many of the mobility scooters can be disassembled, but you must be able to lift the heaviest component weight, which can be less than 30 lbs or as much as 80 lbs. If you cannot lift the required weight, then you may need a scooter lift.
Other Mobility Scooter Attributes to Consider
Choosing from a wide variety of models and styles of mobility scooters for sale can be overwhelming, but by thinking carefully and considering some important factors, you can confidently choose the scooter that will be best for you and your lifestyle.
Weight Capacity
A mobility scooter's weight capacity is an important specification for you to consider. You must make sure any scooter you use must be able to handle your weight, plus anything extra you might be carrying, which is important for safety. We recommend you select a model with a weight capacity of at least 25 pounds more than your weight. This will serve as a safety reserve for moderating weight and give you the ability to have a grandchild or pet sit with you, in addition to other items you carry. Weight Capacity is one of the most important selection criteria, so don’t underestimate its importance.
Range Per Charge
How far you can travel on your mobility scooter per charge may be particularly important to you if you intend to use it for extended periods or cover long distances. Consider your daily travel requirements and choose a scooter with a range that will go beyond that distance to make sure it will not leave you pushing the scooter. Keep in mind that you don’t want to completely drain your batteries. It is best to recharge when they have some juice left. Also, battery distance listed by the manufacturer is an estimate and not an exact measurement. Other factors like the terrain, speed at which you travel, and even weather can impact battery life.
Battery Type and Charging Time
Most mobility scooters use Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries, but the popularity of Lithium batteries is growing. SLA batteries are airline-approved, and the TSA allows them to be carried underneath the hold in the luggage storage area. Lithium batteries can only be carried on the plane, so you must remove them from the scooter and carry the battery with you onto the plane. SLA batteries are less expensive, but Lithium (Li) batteries have several advantages such as being much lighter and having a longer lifespan. Understanding your needs will help you select the type and size of battery that is most convenient and suitable for your needs.
When shopping for mobility scooters for sale, please take your time to make sure you consider the important features above and feel free to call to discuss the options with a Scooter Direct sales representative.
FAQ
Scooter Direct will not bill Medicare directly. As such, we are not able to answer your questions about what they will pay, which products they cover or how to file. You may view information directly from Medicare at www.Medicare.gov. Generally though, Medicare may cover all or part of the cost of a mobility scooter, power wheelchair or other mobility products. It is safest to call Medicare to see if you qualify, what you need to do to be approved, and to know what or how much they’ll cover for a new mobility scooter.
Depending on your plan, Medicare may only cover part of the cost if they deem the mobility scooter as a medical necessity. Medicare may require prior authorization to purchase a power scooter for sale. To prove that you medically need a mobility scooter, you’ll need to see a doctor and get a diagnosis of an actual health condition that makes it hard to walk. Your doctor may need to submit documentation to Medicare to show that you have mobility issues and need a mobility scooter.
Medicare may also only approve a mobility scooter purchase from certain suppliers. If Medicare approves a mobility scooter, the medical scooter must primarily be used indoors. That means Medicare generally does not cover outdoor mobility scooters or travel mobility scooters.
Mobility scooters fall under Medicare Part B as durable medical equipment (DME). If you qualify, Medicare may only cover 80% of the Medicare-approved cost of the scooter after you meet your Part B deductible.
Anyone can purchase a mobility scooter, no matter how little or severe their mobility issue is and insurance is not required. If you plan on using insurance to help pay for a medical scooter, you should contact your insurer to find out what they cover and if they require you to work with an approved supplier. Scooter Direct does not directly bill insurance companies. We will provide you a sales receipt that you can use to file with your provider.
At Scooter Direct, we do have a financing option for mobility scooters. We understand that paying for a mobility scooter upfront and in full can be difficult, so we’ve made it easier by offering low monthly payments when purchasing mobility scooters for sale. It’s easy to apply. When you find the mobility scooter you want (make sure it still fits into your budget. Mobility scooters are supposed to bring you freedom, and being strained financially won’t bring you the freedom we want you to have) Complete an application by one of the two methods below:
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Checkout for the product and options you want:
- Choose the product you want then select "Add to Cart".
- View the cart then select "Proceed to Checkout".
- Enter your name, address, and other required fields, then choose the Payment Method of "PayTomorrow" and click "Place Order".
- You will be directed to the PayTomorrow application to complete the financing.
- Complete an Application by clicking here.
For additional questions regarding PayTomorrow, you may call their Customer Service at (866) 418-5857.
There are many places you can purchase mobility scooters for sale. Whether you are looking in person or online, you want to make sure you purchase from an authorized dealer. ScooterDirect.com is an online authorized dealer that carries brand names of mobility scooters. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and can help you find the right mobility scooter for you, whether it’s a folding scooter, a heavy-duty scooter, a 3-wheel or 4-wheel scooter, or an outdoor scooter. As an authorized dealer, every mobility scooter sold is brand new and comes with a warranty. If you have problems with your mobility scooter, we’ll help you resolve the problem by helping facilitate the warranty. Scooter Direct carries a variety of handicap scooters for sale, such as 3-wheel and 4-wheel scooters, mid-sized scooters, heavy-duty scooters, and high-performance scooters. If you’re looking for medical scooters for sale, Pride Mobility and Golden Technologies are good brands to go with, both brands carried by Scooter Direct.
If you’re on a budget and are looking for cheap mobility scooters for adults, you do need to be careful that you find a mobility scooter that is still reliable and durable. There are mobility scooters that can be found for extremely cheap. These cheap scooters can come at a cost though, as they are not durable, cannot drive that far or long, are not as comfortable or stable, and have pretty limited features. If you’re looking for cheap mobility scooters, we recommend the Vive 3 Wheel Mobility Scooter, Zipr Roo 3 Wheel Scooter, or Zipr 3 wheel. These are inexpensive mobility scooters for adults that are durable, reliable, have a good driving distance, comfortable, safe, and come with features such as front baskets, LED lights, armrests, and are easy to use. All three of these scooters (and more) are under $800. These cheap mobility scooters for adults are available for financing as well, so you have the option to make low monthly payments.
The warranty on mobility scooters varies by manufacturer.
- Pride Mobility offers a 1-year In-Home Labor warranty on parts under warranty. Parts warranty is 2-year warranty on the frame and drivetrain, a 1-year warranty on any manufacturer defect, and a 6-months to 1 year warranty on the battery, depending on the model.
- Golden Buzzaround offers a 1-year In-Home Labor warranty on parts under warranty. Parts warranty is 2-year warranty on the frame and drivetrain, a 1-year warranty on any manufacturer defect, and a 1-year warranty on the battery.
- Zipr offers a 3-year warranty on the frame and 1 year on mechanics. The battery is not covered and there is no labor warranty.
Warranties may vary, to get the warranty for a specific product, check the warranty tab on the product page of the website. If you’re unsure, please feel free to give us a call at (800)987-6791. No matter the mobility scooter, the warranty only covers manufacturer defects. Normal wear and tear are not covered under the warranty. The warranty will also be voided if the mobility scooter was altered.
Products that come with an In-home warranty will be repaired by a technician assigned by the warranty provider at your home. The process for in-home warranty is as follows:
- Report your warranty issue to Scooter Direct and we will facilitate with the warranty provider.
- They will determine, based on the issue reported, if a technical evaluation needs to occur or if they can determine the part needed.
- If they determine a replacement part is needed to repair your mobility scooter, it will be mailed to the assigned technician.
- Once the technician receives the part, they will contact you to schedule a service call with you at your home or location.
- The technician will then come to the assigned location to do the repair.
There is no cost to you for the technician to come and make the necessary repairs, as long as it’s covered by the warranty. In-home warranty does not cover wear and tear and may not cover all issues. Make sure to check the warranty to see if it includes in-home warranties and what the warranty covers.
To be covered by the warranty, you must be the original owner. Keep that in mind when you are shopping for mobility scooters for sale; if you purchase a used scooter, you will not be covered by the warranty. The warranty cannot be transferred even if the mobility scooter is going to someone you know. The warranty is handled through the authorized dealer but it is best to register your mobility scooter for the warranty in the event your dealer closes. It’s easier for the manufacturer to confirm who the scooter belongs to and when/where you purchased the mobility scooter. If you don’t register, they may ask for the purchase records. By not registering, you run the risk of being denied coverage if you cannot prove that you are the owner and when you bought the scooter.
If your weight is more than 350 lbs then you will want to look for a heavy-duty mobility scooter. Be sure to still check the weight capacity as these scooters' weight limits range between 350lbs - 500lbs. Be sure to consider weight changes and the items or grandkids that may sit on your lap. The scooter should have a weight capacity at least 10% more than the total weight carried.
Heavy-duty mobility scooters may be pricier, but they are stronger and more powerful. Purchasing a mobility scooter and loading it with weight more than its capacity will quickly strain the scooter, making it slower, unbalanced, and you risk burning out the motor. At Scooter Direct, we do carry the top name brands for heavy-duty mobility scooters, such as Pride Mobility, Golden Tech, Merits, and more. The Pride Maxima 3-wheel mobility scooter or 4-wheel mobility scooter is one of the most popular models. The Pride Baja Wrangler 2 is also an excellent choice for a heavy-duty mobility scooter. The Baja Wrangler 2 is known for its offroading capabilities. This mobility scooter has excellent suspension, faster speed, and a lasting battery. The Baja Wrangler 2 is a great mobility scooter for someone who is larger.
If you are obese, make sure to talk to your insurance or Medicare to see if they will help cover the costs, as these scooters may be seen as a medical scooter. If it’s not covered, the heavy-duty mobility scooters are also available for financing.
If your weight is more than 350 lbs then you will want to look for a heavy-duty mobility scooter. Be sure to still check the weight capacity as these scooters' weight limits range between 350lbs - 500lbs. Be sure to consider weight changes and the items or grandkids that may sit on your lap. The scooter should have a weight capacity at least 10% more than the total weight carried.
Heavy-duty mobility scooters may be pricier, but they are stronger and more powerful. Purchasing a mobility scooter and loading it with weight more than its capacity will quickly strain the scooter, making it slower, unbalanced, and you risk burning out the motor. At Scooter Direct, we do carry the top name brands for heavy-duty mobility scooters, such as Pride Mobility, Golden Tech, Merits, and more. The Pride Maxima 3-wheel mobility scooter or 4-wheel mobility scooter is one of the most popular models. The Pride Baja Wrangler 2 is also an excellent choice for a heavy-duty mobility scooter. The Baja Wrangler 2 is known for its offroading capabilities. This mobility scooter has excellent suspension, faster speed, and a lasting battery. The Baja Wrangler 2 is a great mobility scooter for someone who is larger.
If you are obese, make sure to talk to your insurance or Medicare to see if they will help cover the costs, as these scooters may be seen as a medical scooter. If it’s not covered, the heavy-duty mobility scooters are also available for financing.
Most folding scooters are considered a travel scooter, but there are travel scooters that disassemble instead of folding. The travel scooters are still easy to transport and store, they just become multiple pieces instead of folding into 1 piece. Scooters that disassemble are usually heavier when fully assembled but the heaviest part may be less than a folded scooter.
Travel scooters usually have larger batteries with a farther travel distance and better seats that make them more comfortable. One of the more favorable travel scooters is the Pride GoGo Scooter. The GoGo Mobility Scooter has different models such as the Go-Go Elite Traveller and Go-Go Sport. No matter which Go Go Mobility Scooter you’re looking at, with Pride Mobility, you’re getting a scooter that’s reliable and durable.
The GoGo Mobility Scooter is another lightweight scooter that breaks up into 5 pieces. Disassembling the GoGo scooter makes it much easier to lift the pieces into a vehicle for transport.
Another top travel mobility scooter line is the Golden Buzzaround Scooters. The Buzz Around Scooter also has different models to meet individual needs, but the Buzz Around Scooter is still a reliable and durable mobility scooter.
Folding mobility scooters are made to assemble and disassemble, so they can handle being used every day and multiple times per day. When putting the scooter together or taking it apart, just make sure you follow the instructions, work with care, safely secure, and if you see any signs of wear or damage, you might want to take that piece in for repair.
Yes and no! You can travel with the mobility scooter but you need to know what kind of battery you have. Lithium batteries are becoming popular but sealed lead acid batteries are most common.
What to know when traveling with a Lithium Battery by Air Transport:
- A lithium battery cannot exceed 300 Watt Hours (WH)
- Battery must be removed from the Mobility Scooter and taken on the Airplane with you
- Battery must be carried on the plane in a fireproof carry bag to ensure any potential fire is contained within the bag.
On the other hand, Sealed Lead Acid batteries can be loaded with the scooter and carried in the hold of the plane.
In both cases, you can ride your scooter through the airport and down the jetway. The luggage handlers will then take the scooter (without the battery if it is Lithium) and stow it under the plane. They will bring the mobility scooter back out at your destination.
It is always wise to check with the airline if they can take your mobility scooter and what their requirements are. They’ll need to know things like what battery type the scooter has, the size and weight of the mobility scooter, and handling care.
That just depends on your needs. A 3-wheel mobility scooter is best for turning tight radiuses. The 3-wheel mobility scooter is great for those in apartments or taking tighter turns in the grocery store. A 4-wheel mobility scooter is better for balance, but cannot take turns quite as sharp.
Many people think a 3-wheel mobility scooter is for indoors only. Depending on the stability of the rider and the type of terrain and stability of the scooter, 3-wheel scooters can definitely be used outside. Both the 3-wheel and the 4-wheel mobility scooter are great, it just depends on your preference and situation. If you’re unsure, then please speak with one of our sales support professionals.
The mobility scooter charges just like a cell phone would, you’ll plug it into a wall outlet. Just make sure the mobility scooter is turned off and that you are charging it in a safe manner. Do not overload the outlet and avoid using extension cords.
To charge your mobility scooter, just give it time to fully charge. This will be dependent on your mobility scooter and its battery. In terms of how often you should charge the battery will also be dependent on the scooter and its battery and how often you use your scooter. If you use your mobility scooter every day, it’s a good idea to charge the scooter when you are done with it for the day. If you use it less, you might need to charge it only twice a week.
The worst option is to let your scooter battery drop too low or wait until it drops down before charging. Refer to the manual to see the recommended charge times.
At some point, you’re going to need a new battery for your mobility scooter. You can usually tell it's time for a new battery based on the behavior of the scooter. You cannot go as far, it has erratic behavior, and the battery gauge drops sooner than it did before.
At Scooter Direct, we carry different kinds of batteries for mobility scooters. We carry batteries for most mobility scooters including Lithium and sealed lead acid. Mobility scooters with sealed lead acid batteries have two 12 Volt batteries, but the amperage of the batteries is different and that will be needed by the salesperson to take and order. Scooters with Lithium batteries typically only have one battery but some models can have two.
If you’re unsure which battery you need, please feel free to give us a call at (800) 987-6791.
Almost any store that sells batteries will take your old batteries. It’s wise to call them before taking your old battery in, just in case they do not. If you cannot find a store to take them for you, your local waste disposal agency can guide you in where you need to go to properly dispose of your old batteries.
Please do not throw your batteries in the trash. These batteries contain toxic chemicals that can leak into the soil and water. They are also a fire hazard and could start a fire if it goes to the landfill.
You do not need a license or registration to drive any mobility scooter. Mobility scooters are covered by the ADA, which means they are allowed to drive anywhere people walk. There is a minimum age to drive a mobility scooter. Please check with your state laws.
It is unsafe to drive a mobility scooter in the street. You can drive your mobility scooter on the sidewalk. If you need to travel a further distance, it’s best to transport your mobility scooter by a vehicle.
If your mobility scooter is folding or a travel scooter, it’s easy to place it in the trunk of a car. If your scooter does not disassemble, a vehicle can transport your mobility scooter by a lift or carrier.
Depending on the city and state, it may be illegal to drive a mobility scooter on roads. You can check for clarification of these laws by calling your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
If you’re looking for a mobility scooter for sale for the elderly, the best scooter is the one that fits their needs and lifestyle. Regardless of preference, you’ll want to look for a handicap scooter that is durable and reliable. Brands like Pride Mobility, Golden Technology, EV Rider, and Merits are a few reliable brands.
Scooter Direct is one of the best places to find power scooters for sale, with different brands, models, and accessories. Our customer care service team can help you find which mobility scooter is best suited for you or your elderly loved one.
