What Are Handicap Scooters and How Do They Work?

Handicap scooters and mobility scooters are one and the same. Handicap scooters, also known as adult scooters, are small battery powered vehicles meant for elderly or handicapped people to be able to transport themselves. This might be for inside a home, on the sidewalk, through parking lots, inside malls, and other places that people with limited mobility struggle with walking across.

We wish to mention that we understand that the term "handicapped" or "handicapped scooter" might be offensive to some. We do not intend any offense, we are here to help people to the best of our ability. Since many people are still searching for handicap scooters, wanting to know what they are and how they work, we have decided to create this helpful page explaining and answering all questions pertaining to handicap scooters.

Power, steering, tiller, and controls

A handicap scooter always works on electric power from a battery. These are charged from regular wall outlets. The user sits on a seat, places their feet on a deck area, and controls the machine from a "tiller", a steering shaft which has control on the top of it.

The steering controls sit in front of the user and include handlebars for steering right or left, a throttle to move the machine forward or backward, braking controls, and an information panel. The information panel shows useful information such as how much battery is left. Depending on the model, you might also have front, rear, and turn signal lighting control, and an extra emergency handbrake, among other features.

Handicap scooters by definition have a steering pillar in front of the handicapped user and a deck area where the user places their feet. If you see a device with a joystick on the armrest for control and a footplate for your feet, then it is not a handicapped scooter, that would be a power chair or electric wheelchair.

Types of handicap mobility scooters

There are many kinds of handicap scooters for people with all different kinds of situations and looking to be able to traverse different places with their scooters.

• Travel mobility scooters are for people who want to easily be able to travel with their scooter, whether that means taking it in their car trunk, or for airline travel.
• There are folding handicap scooters, which are often very lightweight, as well as disabling models. There are even handicap scooters that fold or unfold automatically with the push of a button on a remote.
• Heavy-duty handicap scooters are meant for handicapped people who weigh 400 lbs and above. There are bariatric scooter models for patients weighing up to 700 lbs.
• Some people want a fast adventure, and for those, there are handicap mobility scooters that can reach speeds of close to 30 mph.
• If you are handicapped and want to travel with a companion on a scooter, especially if one of you has impaired vision or is blind, 2 seater handicapped scooters are a perfect fit. Only one person needs to control the scooter, the other passenger can just ride along.

Who can benefit from using a handicap scooter?

Of course, handicapped people who suffer from mobility limiting disability can benefit from using a handicap scooter. A handicap scooter can make an enormous difference in the life of someone struggling with mobility and can decide whether they are able to leave the house, go shopping, or have to stay stuck indoors.

However, it is not only "handicapped" people who can benefit from a handicap scooter. Many non-handicapped people can get a lot of utility and help in their daily lives from a handicap scooter too. We sell scooters to people who definitely do not consider themselves handicapped or disabled, yet love the new opportunities their scooter has afforded them.

Examples include:

• Elderly people who need help getting around their homes.
• Seniors who are able to walk, but not long distances.
• People who do not have a driver's license or had it revoked due to their age and need to travel distances that are impractical to walk.
• People who struggle with vision loss and can't drive.
• People who simply do not have the strength to walk long distances due to COPD or similar ailments.
• People who have a partner who is unable to walk, or has limited vision, and want to take them around on a 2 seater scooter.
• People that have pets that can't walk long but still want to explore the outdoors.

How to choose the right handicap scooter for your needs

In order to choose the right handicap scooter for your needs you must first ask yourself where and how you plan on using it. You might find that you need your handicap scooter for more than one use case or category. Sometimes, you can find a scooter that is suitable for 2 or more categories.

Finding the scooter that fits your needs and lifestyle can feel overwhelming. There are a lot of options to consider when selecting the model that is right for you. When looking at scooters, here are a few things to focus on. In general, when choosing a handicap scooter think about which use cases you'll need it for.

Decide what kind of use you'll need

Do you have to take it in your car or a friend's car? If so, you might need a folding scooter unless you can install a vehicle lift.

Travel and folding

If you are looking for a scooter to take on the go, a travel handicap scooter is the best option for you. Lightweight and designed to easily come apart, our travel chairs are ideal for taking on trips, airplanes, and in all-size vehicles. Their compact design allows them to fold up into a suitcase-size frame, making loading them up easier than ever. Setting up and taking apart our travel chairs can be done in minutes.

For compact spaces like tight spaces or small vehicles, a scooter that has the ability to fold up and be put back together within minutes is the best choice.

All terrain and off road

Selecting the chair that can properly handle the terrain in your surroundings is important. We offer a variety of chairs that are designed for all terrain, meaning they will work effortlessly on tile, wood, concrete, grass, gravel, and more. All terrain scooters are the top choice for customers looking to use their chairs outside of just their homes and stores.

2 seater handicap scooters

2 seater handicap scooters are great for those who want to travel with a companion such as a spouse, friend, or pet. Some people who have low vision and cannot drive a mobility scooter buy a handicap 2 seater so their companion can take them around. You can get side by side or front to back 2 seat handicap scooters.

Enclosed handicap scooters

If you live in an area that is windy or rainy, an enclosed handicap scooter can be a good choice. We sell models with just a roof and windshield, models with soft rain sides along with hard canopies, as well as fully enclosed hard door handicap scooters that are basically like micro electric cars.

Bariatric handicap scooters

If you're planning to get a handicap scooter as a heavy person, weighing above 400 lbs, not to worry, we have that covered too. Just make sure your handicap scooters have a weight capacity of 400 lbs or more. We have handicap scooters with weight capacities of up to 600 lbs, such as the Afiscooter S4 or Afiscooter S3 with weight capacity upgrades.

Handicap scooter brands

Don't forget the brand in your decision making. A good brand typically comes with in-home service warranty options. Many good brands actually offer this for free as part of the standard warranty. A good brand will also have an emphasis on quality, longevity of the unit, comfort and high performance.

User weight and height

When making a decision about which handicap scooter to buy, also take into consideration how much you weigh and how tall you are.

How much you weigh determines the weight capacity that your handicap mobility scooter will have to be able to take, and how tall you are determines how much comfort you will have.

Taller people will usually prefer heavy duty or larger scooters simply because they have more legroom, and also prefer a scooter that has sliders under the seat so they can slide them backward. Shorter people will often prefer smaller scooters such as folding scooters which are often much smaller than their counterparts.

People would also like to have a slider under their seat to be able to bring the seat forward toward the tiller. Another advantage for short people is that the tiller is able to move forward toward the user so that their arms can reach the controls.

For short people whose legs do not reach the deck area of the scooter, it is advisable to put a thick cushion or a low stool so that you can use the scooter just as anyone else with your feet firmly planted on a surface.

Stock levels and shipping times

Another factor to take into account when choosing the right handicap scooter for your needs is how soon you need the scooter. Different brands can have different stock levels and one brand scooter, though it might be better for you, might not be in stock for a few months, whereas a similar scooter that's almost as good is available to ship right away.

If you need an emergency handicap scooter "yesterday", some brands are able to ship it to you within two to three days depending on where you are.

Price

We cannot ignore the elephant in the room, price. We try to have a handicap scooter for every budget, from $650 to several thousand. Of course, different scooters cost different prices. You can expect to pay anywhere from $675 to $24,775 for a handicap mobility scooter, with heavy-duty models typically costing more, between $2,000 and $7,500.

Financing on handicap mobility scooters

We understand that some of our scooters are outside the budget of some of our customers and we offer different financing options for those who wish to spread the cost over time.

Depending on your credit score you might be able to get a 0% APR offer for 90 days or split it in 4 payments. Those with lower credit scores can still benefit from fair financing APR percentages that start at 9.99%. We are partnered with four different financing partners, including Affirm through Amazon, Klarna, and PayPal credit for those who have a PayPal account.

Handicap scooters vs electric wheelchairs

When considering how to choose the right handicap scooter for your needs, always remember that it's possible a handicap scooter is not the best device for your needs and an electric wheelchair might be better.

Electric wheelchairs are generally better for indoors as they are able to turn much sharper and do not have as much ground clearance for obstacles outdoors. If you plan on using your device almost exclusively at home we recommend you think about an electric wheelchair as potentially the better option for your needs.

3 wheel handicap scooters vs 4 wheel

Another factor to consider when deciding which is the best handicap scooter for your needs is 3 wheel versus 4 wheel handicap scooters. Three wheel handicap scooters are better at turning sharp corners so they're better for indoors or if you plan to go to small supermarkets with your scooter. Four wheel handicap scooters do not turn as sharply, however they are more stable for those who want extra safety and stability.

Transporting your handicap scooter

Before jumping to buy any kind of handicap scooter, part of your needs that need to be considered are your transport needs. If you intend to bring this scooter along in a car, or will need to use the scooter outside of the radius the scooter can go on one charge from your home, or if you need to transport the scooter by car, bus, cruise ship, or airplane, you should think about the following points.

Car inside trunk

If you'll be needing to transport your handicap scooter by car, do you plan on bringing it inside the car or transporting it outside of the car? If you plan to bring it inside the car you will either need a suitable lift or a ramp to bring it in, or you will need to double-check that the dimensions fit, especially with larger all terrain style models.

Car carriers

If you want to transport this scooter outside of your car, which is very common when it's a mid to large size scooter, you have three options. You can either get a manual carrier which has a ramp that folds out from it to allow you to roll the scooter up onto the carrier. It sits on your car hitch and is dependent on the max tongue weight of your car's hitch.

Scooter platform lifts

The second option is to get an electric handicap scooter lift. Similar to a manual carrier, this sits on your vehicle's hitch and is bound by the max tongue weight that your car's hitch can hold.

Electric platform carriers lower down to the ground electrically to allow you to roll your scooter on at ground level and then raise it up for the period when you're driving. You can also flip them up when not in use and some models come with an actual swing-away arm to allow you to have access to the tailgate whilst the scooter is not on the carrier or lift.

We sell electric platform lifts that can accommodate up to 500 lbs, meaning that you are covered even for the heaviest mobility scooters. This does not mean that your car will be able to handle that much weight, that depends on the max tongue weight rating of your hitch.

Scooter trailer

The third option is a ScootaTrailer which is a trailer specifically designed for a mobility scooter or electric wheelchair. Any car or truck can haul this trailer. This is suitable for sedans too.

If you have a truck and want to transport the scooter on your truck bed you will probably need a ramp to get it up to the truck bed, especially if it is a larger model. Most larger models do fit on standard truck bed sizes, however some dual seat scooters might be too large.

Buses and public transit

If you plan on taking your handicap scooter on a bus, whether a city bus, intercity bus, or local disability transport that has a lift attached, it's important to make sure that the dimensions will work.

The bus companies have a legal obligation to accommodate you but sometimes the weight of your unit or the dimensions of it just won't work. The same applies to cruise ships and forms of public transit such as subways.

Taking a handicap scooter on an airplane

Airplanes will generally accommodate your mobility scooter even if it is large. If it is a large scooter, they will usually ask for it to be placed in the hold, so you won't be able to take it all the way to the gate.

Small folding mobility scooters can usually be taken right to the air bridge where they are taken together with baby strollers and returned to you at the same place upon arrival.

Large lithium-ion batteries are not allowed on airplanes, so if planning on traveling with your scooter on an airplane make sure the scooter either has SLA, sealed lead acid batteries, or it has lithium batteries that are small enough to be taken on an airplane. Almost all of our folding scooters have lithium batteries that are small enough to be taken on airplanes.

What are the different types of handicap scooters available?

There are a variety of handicap mobility scooters available to suit different needs and preferences. So, let's explore the different categories of handicap mobility scooters available.

• Travel scooters are lightweight, portable scooters that are perfect for running errands or going on short trips. They are easy to disassemble and fit in the trunk of most cars.
• Folding scooters, as the name suggests, fold up for easy storage and transport. They are a good option for people who live in apartments or have limited storage space.
• All-terrain scooters are rugged scooters designed for outdoor use on uneven terrain. They have large wheels and good ground clearance to handle grass, gravel, and dirt paths.
• Heavy-duty scooters are built for larger riders or those who need extra support. They typically have a higher weight capacity and more powerful motors.
• Enclosed scooters offer protection from the elements, with a roof and windshield. They are a good option for people who live in climates with rain or snow.
• Fast scooters are a good option if you need to get around quickly. These scooters can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
• 2 seater scooters can accommodate two riders, which is a great option for people who want to travel with a companion.

In addition to category, brand is also an important factor to consider when choosing a handicap mobility scooter. Different brands offer different features, warranties, and customer service. Some of the popular brands of handicap mobility scooters include Afiscooter, Enhance Mobility, Shoprider, and VitaFOM.

Another important consideration is the number of wheels. Handicap mobility scooters come in two main configurations, 3-wheel and 4-wheel.

• 3-wheel scooters are generally more maneuverable and easier to turn. They are a good option for people who will be using their scooters indoors or in tight spaces.
• 4-wheel scooters are more stable and provide a smoother ride. They are a good option for people who will be using their scooter outdoors on uneven terrain.

What features should you look for in a handicap scooter?

Choosing a handicap mobility scooter is a significant decision, and it's important to consider several factors to ensure you get the one that best suits your needs. Here are some key features to keep in mind.

Warranty

A good warranty protects you in case of any unexpected malfunctions or defects. Look for a warranty that covers both parts and labor for a reasonable period. Heavy Duty Mobility offers detailed information that can be found here.

Benefits of buying online

While you might be used to visiting a physical store to make a larger purchase, there are many advantages to buying a handicap mobility scooter online. Here at Heavy Duty Mobility, we adhere to MAP, Minimum Advertised Price, standards, ensuring you get the best possible price without extensive price shopping. Additionally, we offer a price match guarantee, so you can be confident you're getting the most competitive price available.

Beyond competitive pricing, online shopping allows you to browse a wider selection of scooters from the comfort of your home. You can easily compare features, specifications, and user reviews to find the perfect fit for your needs. Plus, online retailers often have special offers and discounts that you might not find in brick-and-mortar stores.

Customer service

Excellent customer service is essential throughout the entire buying process, from initial inquiries to after-sales support. Look for a company with a reputable customer service department that is easily accessible by phone, email, or live chat. At Heavy Duty Mobility, we pride ourselves on exceptional customer service. We encourage you to check out our reviews on Trustpilot and Google Maps to see what our satisfied customers have to say about their experience.

Travelers should see the portable electric wheelchairs built to break down for the trunk.

Popular handicap scooters to consider

Not sure where to start. These are three versatile handicap scooters that suit very different needs and budgets.

Afiscooter S4 All-Terrain Mobility Scooter 4-WheelBest all-terrain pick with up to 600 lb capacity and dual-seat and canopy options$6,169View

EV-Rider VitaXpress Heavy-Duty Mobility ScooterStable heavy-duty value with a smooth ride indoors and outdoors$3,795View

EV Rider Transport AF+ Auto Folding Lightweight Travel Mobility ScooterLightweight auto-folding travel scooter that folds by remote for the car or airplane$2,250View