When it comes to transporting your scooter; you will have to look at mobility scooter lifts. Mobility scooter lifts generally come in two different types; Exterior elevators and interior elevators.
Outdoor Mobility Lifts
Outdoor mobility lifts are designed to fit onto a vehicle’s hitch. If you don’t have a hitch on your vehicle; You can check with a mechanic shop to have one installed. Be sure to let them know what you will be using the hitch for so they can install one that will work with your lift. An outside lift is an easy option if you want to equip your van with a mobility scooter lift.
An outside lift will allow you to drive your scooter onto the platform that is mounted on the hitch, get off the scooter, and then lift it off the ground for driving. You may want to consider purchasing a cover for your scooter because you will be traveling outside of your vehicle and exposed to inclement weather. The mechanical parts will also be exposed to dust and dirt from the road. The exterior lift is easy and can be less expensive to install.
Interior mobility elevators
A lift that goes inside your vehicle is a platform mobility scooter lift. This lift is designed to go inside a truck or SUV. It can be placed in the rear (if you have rear access) or in the side (door) compartment of your vehicle.
For rear access installation, lower the platform to the ground, drive your scooter onto it, exit the scooter, and then use an electric remote control to lift the unit into your car.
If getting off the scooter and into your car is a problem for you, a side lift will probably work better for your needs. This lift will allow you to mount your scooter on the lift and get into your vehicle while still sitting on the scooter (as long as your vehicle has enough headroom).
When purchasing electric mobility scooter lifts, you will need to consider the vehicle you have and the lifts compatibility with it. You should also look at a quality manufacturer. Hammond Manufacturing is known for quality elevator component construction.
Many people find that their vehicle will need a substantial modification when installing a lift. This is not an easy task and most leave it to an experienced professional. You will probably want an experienced technician who has installed mobility scooter lifts in vehicles before. There are stores specializing in the installation of elevators. This type of workshop will have all the knowledge and experience to install your lift correctly and to your specifications. They will also be able to guide you in the right direction in choosing the right lift for your vehicle and any modifications you may need. Installation prices will vary and your insurance may or may not pay for it. If your insurance doesn’t cover the facility, check with your local social services agency for help. Organizations for the disabled and elderly can help you with the cost.
