Wheelchairs

1. Do I need a doctor’s prescription to purchase a wheelchair?
No. Anyone can purchase a wheelchair or powerchair

2. Will my insurance pay?
Scooter Direct does not bill any insurance including Medicare and Medicaid. However, you may, you must have a medical need for Medicare to cover the cost of a scooter, power chair, or other mobility product. You should contact your insurance provider to get exact answers to your questions regarding coverage for your specific policy.

3. Do you offer financing?
Yes, financing can be done through several providers. Visit the Scooter Direct Financing page for more information.

4. How often do I need to charge the batteries?
How often you need to charge the batteries for your mobility device is determined by how often you use it. If you use your product daily, charge its batteries as soon as you finish using it for the day. We recommend charging your product’s batteries for at least 8 to 14 hours after daily use. If you use your product less frequently, we recommend charging the batteries 8-14 hours twice a week for a maintenance charge. We do not recommend charging the batteries for longer than 14 hours. Refer to the manual supplied with the battery charger for charging instructions.

5. Do I need a license or registration for driving a wheelchair outside?
No. Mobility Devices are covered by the ADA and can be ridden on sidewalks, in stores and any place people are allowed to walk.

6. Are powerchairs allowed on streets?
No. These are not street legal. They are made for places where people walk such as sidewalks and stores.

7. What is the warranty on wheelchairs?
Warranties vary for different manufacturers and also if unit is new, open box or used condition. Warranty is listed on each product under the warranty tab on ScooterDirect.com

8. What is an in-home warranty?
A technician will come to your location with the replacement part and perform the service as needed. You are not charged for the part, labor or travel to your location. This is for any part covered under warranty and not wear and tear items such as tires.

9. Am I covered under warranty if I’m not the original owner of the product?
Warranties for most manufacturers products only apply to the original owner of the product and are not transferrable.

10. Which wheelchair is best suited for the elderly?
The best wheelchair is the one that meets your requirements. However, you need to choose a brand that is high quality and supported by a reliable manufacturer and dealer. We recommend you work with your dealer to determine which model matches your needs.

11. What is necessary to use a powerchair for shopping?
Consider the size of the store when choosing a mobility scooter for shopping. Requirement such as turning radius, width of aisles, doorways, checkout lanes, etc. Also consider the baskets and carrying bags available for the electric wheelchair.

12. Which electric wheelchair is right for me if I am obese?
Scooter Direct has models that can carry up to 600 lbs.  The Pride Jazzy 1450 is our most popular model.13. What is a travel powerchair?

A travel powerchair is a model that can be quickly and easily disassembled with parts light enough to be lifted. This means that it is easy to carry on planes, cruises and can be transported in vehicle without a lift or carrier.

14. Is it safe to use my electric wheelchair in rain?
No. Direct or prolonged exposure to water or dampness could cause a malfunction electronically and mechanically. Water can cause electrical components to corrode.

15. How do I dispose of batteries?
Most stores that sell batteries will take your batteries. If not, contact your local waste disposal agency for instructions on disposal and battery recycling which is our recommended course of action.