Well, the short answer is they can cost you nothing to upwards of Nine thousand pounds, in this article we will look at how to acquire a mobility scooter and also what key features you should look for when you are considering a purchase.
Firstly, let’s look at how to get funding for a free mobility scooter shall we? You can apply for funding through either your local council or the Government directly. The NHS has a scheme too which is linked to the government Motability offers. There are also many charities who can organise the funding, or part funding, for you.
If the mobility scooter is for someone aged under 28 years old, then there are a few charities that can help you. The Elifar Foundation and The Handicapped Children’s Action Group offer to fund mobility scooters anywhere from £400 up to £5000 and you can contact them directly should you wish. The Variety children’s charity has also been around for years and years in the UK and specialises in providing mobility scooter funding.
Choosing The Right Mobility Scooter
When choosing a mobility scooter, it’s important to consider the following features rather than just plumping for the most expensive one you can find. Also, find out if the VAT should be applied to your purchase.
Mobility Scooter Maintenance
Will it need to be maintained on a regular basis and will you or a family member be able to do this? What costs are involved in a mobility scooter dealer taking over the servicing and will this affect the warranty situation?
Mobility Scooter Travel
Will it be able to fit into your car, if you have one? Do you need to transport it to work or another setting regularly? Have you got a Motability funding product in place for your car to transport the Motability scooter?
At Home With A Scooter
Where will you be able to keep your mobility scooter safe? Will it fit through your front door if you do not have rear access to your property? Do you live in flats where the scooter will need to fit in a lift? Do you have somewhere secure to keep the scooter?
Mobility Scooter Restrictions
Can you drive it everywhere you need to? Are there any places that would not let you use your scooter? Do you need hand controls, or could you use the steering bar yourself? Do you have to tax the mobility scooter? Can you drink and drive using the mobility scooter?
Mobility Scooter Use
How often will you need to use your mobility scooter? How long would it take to charge your scooter, and would this be long enough to get you to where you need to get to and home again? Do you use the mobility scooter on the pavement, road or both?
New or Used – Can you get funding for used mobility scooters as well as new ones? Do you get a warranty or guarantee on used mobility scooters? Are all mobility scooter dealers licensed and trustworthy? How can I find reviews on the best dealers to buy a new or used mobility scooter?
Shopping With A Scooter
Will I have enough space to store my purchases if I need the scooter to go shopping? Do supermarkets have charging points in them for mobility scooters?
Mobility Scooter Brand
Which brand of mobility scooter should I buy? Shoprider, TGA, Pride, or Invacare.
Mobility Wheels & Tyres
Should you get either 3, 4 or even a 5 wheeled mobility scooter? What size tyres will best suit your daily usage? Your Independent Living advisor can help you with all of these questions.
Mobility Scooter Comfort
Everyone is different so you must try each mobility scooter you are considering for comfort before you buy. You should be able to not only sit on the scooter but also try it out on the pavement and the road to ensure it’s going to be comfortable for you.
Mobility Scooters Classes
Class 2 mobility scooters- These scooters have a maximum speed of just 4mph as they are sole use on pavements. You can also get all-terrain mobility scooters for any off-roading required.
Class 3 mobility scooters- These scooters can travel up to 8mph on the road and although you do not need a licence you do have to abide by the Highway Code. These will need to have lights, a horn and indicators.
In summary then please see if you can apply for funding for your scooter as this will of course save you some money. Follow the steps above to ensure that you are picking the right mobility scooter for your individual needs and requirements then find the right dealer to buy from and make sure you get the right maintenance pack for aftercare too.
Thanks very much for reading about how much I should pay for a mobility scooter. You might also be interested in hiring our mobility equipment.