In the U.S., there are about 1.7 million people who use a wheelchair or scooter in order to have mobility in their daily life. And close to 80% of that group says they either use a public transportation network without a lift, or they have access to one but it’s tedious to operate. Another option, and perhaps a better one, is to have a lift installed on your own vehicle.
In the U.S., there are about 1.7 million people who use a wheelchair or scooter in order to have mobility in their daily life. And close to 80% of that group says they either use a public transportation network without a lift, or they have access to one but it’s tedious to operate. Another option, and perhaps a better one, is to have a lift installed on your own vehicle.
If you decide to go with the latter route, here are three things you should know before buying a scooter or wheelchair lift.
1. How Does a Scooter or Wheelchair Lift Work?
Each type of lift operates a bit differently. For instance, a platform lift, which is the easiest type to operate, involves driving the scooter or wheelchair onto the platform, securing it in place, and then raising it up and into the vehicle via a motorized system. A platform lift can be operated easily but it consumes a lot of space.
Other types of lifts include crane-style and hitch-style, each one having its own pros and cons. Hitch-style scooter lifts, for instance, involve a more complex installation, with specialized wiring and vehicle capacity requirements, but they easily accommodate the newer power wheelchairs and scooters.
2. Is the Lift Compatible With Your Car?
Not all lifts are compatible with all cars, SUVs or vans. The lift should always be installed by a mobility technician who thoroughly understands the requirements of the lift and how the attachment point connects the lift securely to your vehicle. This way, you can ensure your own safety or the safety of your loved one.
In addition to lifts, there are other mobility products available, such as transfer seats and various driving aids to assist in personal transportation. A mobility specialist, working with a driver rehabilitation specialist when needed, can help you determine the best fit for your needs and your vehicle.
3. Are Lift Costs Covered by Your Health Insurance Provider?
The team at Bussani Mobility works day in and day out with health insurance providers on behalf of our customers. We’ll help guide you in understanding what your healthcare plan will cover for both the product and the installation fees. Typically, these expenses are covered for people living with a disability, as they are a necessity in order to remain mobile in daily life.
Whether it’s a scooter or wheelchair lift that you need, a new or pre-owned wheelchair accessible vehicle, or an update on driving aids, we’re here to help you find the best mobility solution for you. We understand that mobility equals independence for many people. Call us or visit any of our three locations (Bethpage and Smithtown on Long Island, and Mamaroneck in Westchester County) to learn more.
If you decide to go with the latter route, here are three things you should know before buying a scooter or wheelchair lift.
1. How Does a Scooter or Wheelchair Lift Work?
Each type of lift operates a bit differently. For instance, a platform lift, which is the easiest type to operate, involves driving the scooter or wheelchair onto the platform, securing it in place, and then raising it up and into the vehicle via a motorized system. A platform lift can be operated easily but it consumes a lot of space.
Other types of lifts include crane-style and hitch-style, each one having its own pros and cons. Hitch-style scooter lifts, for instance, involve a more complex installation, with specialized wiring and vehicle capacity requirements, but they easily accommodate the newer power wheelchairs and scooters.
2. Is the Lift Compatible With Your Car?
Not all lifts are compatible with all cars, SUVs or vans. The lift should always be installed by a mobility technician who thoroughly understands the requirements of the lift and how the attachment point connects the lift securely to your vehicle. This way, you can ensure your own safety or the safety of your loved one.
In addition to lifts, there are other mobility products available, such as transfer seats and various driving aids to assist in personal transportation. A mobility specialist, working with a driver rehabilitation specialist when needed, can help you determine the best fit for your needs and your vehicle.
3. Are Lift Costs Covered by Your Health Insurance Provider?
The team at Bussani Mobility works day in and day out with health insurance providers on behalf of our customers. We’ll help guide you in understanding what your healthcare plan will cover for both the product and the installation fees. Typically, these expenses are covered for people living with a disability, as they are a necessity in order to remain mobile in daily life.
Whether it’s a scooter or wheelchair lift that you need, a new or pre-owned wheelchair accessible vehicle, or an update on driving aids, we’re here to help you find the best mobility solution for you. We understand that mobility equals independence for many people. Call us or visit any of our three locations (Bethpage and Smithtown on Long Island, and Mamaroneck in Westchester County) to learn more.