The use of handicap scooters and other mobility aids for the handicapped and mobility challenged is steadily on the increase. By enabling mobility challenged people to move independently, handicap scooters provide the user with a greater degree of satisfaction and a better quality of life. But unless a handicapped person is able to conveniently lift a scooter into a vehicle independently, its purpose is somewhat compromised. A range of handicap scooter lifts have been developed to for this purpose and to store it safely while the vehicle is in motion. There are different designs available for cars, vans and SUVs.
Which are some of the popular models?
A very popular handicap scooter lift is the crane/hoist scooter lift, also known as an interior or inside handicap scooter lift, which lifts and stacks the scooter into the vehicle. The post of the lift is bolted to the floor or fixed to the vehicle side doors. The arm of the crane opens swings outward to pick up the scooter. It is a perfect lift solution for pickup trucks, mini-vans and full size vans.
An exterior platform handicap scooter lift consists of a hitch-mounted platform on to which the scooter is pushed and secured. The platform then lifts so the car can move off. When not in use, the platform folds away, or if space permits, fits underneath the van. An exterior platform lift is perfect for cars.
A power handicap platform scooter lift is another type of platform lift. In a power lift the scooter is driven onto a platform which lifts to floor level of the vehicle. The platform with the scooter on it then retracts into the vehicle.
How is a handicap scooter lift powered?
Many handicap scooter lifts are powered by the car battery. Some models however have their own battery packs. Crane hoists are sometimes hydraulically powered.
What does a handicap scooter lift cost?
That would largely depend on the model you choose. In general the cheapest model will start at $350 going up to $4000.
Who are the best manufacturers?
There are several handicap scooter lift manufacturers. One of the largest which offers a wide choice of scooter lifts is Bruno Independent Living Aids Inc. If you are planning to buy a handicap scooter lift first research the various models available to choose one which best suits your vehicle and the handicapped user.