If you don’t have a wheelchair accessible vehicle and are an ambulatory wheelchair or mobility scooter user, purchasing a lift could be beneficial for you and your loved ones. You can safely store your mobility device in your vehicle and bring it with you wherever you go. There are several kinds of vehicle lifts for your mobility scooter, including platform lifts and boom lifts. With many options for lifts out there, how do you know which one is compatible with your scooter?
Choosing the right vehicle lift for your scooter might seem like an intimidating task at first, but there are just a few factors that go into choosing the right one, helping you narrow down your options. This includes looking at the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the specific model of your scooter.
Dimensions
Four dimensions need to be considered when assessing the compatibility of your scooter lift for your vehicle. One should know the length, height, width and weight of the mobility scooter. This is an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked because equipment that is too heavy can damage the vehicle lift and make it unsafe to use. The mobility product should weigh as much or less than the maximum weight capacity of the lift.
Measuring Your Mobility Scooter
To measure your scooter, start from the front to rear, stopping at its longest point. This also goes for measuring the width. Measure your scooter from side-to-side at its widest point. Accuracy is imperative because the mobility product’s measurements should line up with the dimensions of the platform lift, even leaving room to spare.
To measure the height of the scooter, start from the ground to the tallest point, with the backrest folded, if applicable. This determines whether it fits through the vehicle’s rear hatch or side door opening and then can fit inside the vehicle.
If you already own a Pride Mobility® scooter, we make the process easy! Check out our Brochures page under the Resources and Support Center to find the specifications for your specific scooter model. These will include the dimensions such as height, width, length and weight.
Speaking with a Professional
Our biggest piece of advice in finding the perfect lift for your vehicle is to consult an expert. Providers that sell lifts have sales representatives available who are knowledgeable in a wide range of mobility scooters that can discuss which vehicle lifts are compatible with both your scooter and your vehicle. They can help you make an informed and confident decision when finding a compatible lift for your scooter.