What Is A Power Scooter

A mobility electric scooter functions as the user's legs. This type of power scooter is available in several models that are designed primarily for indoor use. Although most mobility electric scooter users are able to walk at least a few steps, some find that even walking between rooms in their home is difficult. These scooter owners may use their scooters inside the house. Mobility electric scooters generally offer enhanced safety features, such as lights, horns and turn signals that are usually not available on other types of electric scooter. These power scooters are covered under ADA accessibility laws, making them useable inside stores, museums, theaters and public transportation. Some mobility electric scooters are suited primarily or equally for outdoor use, featuring wider wheelbases, all-terrain tires, impact resistant bumpers and other elements designed for rugged conditions.

These types of vehicle should not be confused with power wheelchairs. A power wheelchair resembles a manual wheelchair with joystick-style or other controls added. Power wheelchairs provide quite a few advantages. The power wheelchair can be maneuvered almost as easily as a manual wheelchair, with a tight turning radius and small body. A power wheelchair can also be used in situations that are not appropriate for scooters, such as assisting with getting out of bed. However, power wheelchairs are not as well equipped as even the most basic scooter for rugged outdoor use. Power wheelchairs are not as readily approved by insurance companies as scooters, and most power wheelchair users are unable to walk as easily as most scooter users. The similarity in terminology often leads to confusion, so if you are in the market for either a power chair or a power scooter, be certain that you understand which product you actually want.

The term power scooter, although somewhat old-fashioned, is often used in government, particularly in reference to traffic laws. In this context, power scooter may refer to any type of motor scooter or non-disabled electric scooter. This type of power scooter may be governed by any of a complex system of traffic laws, depending on the scooter's horsepower, type of motor, and classification. Usually these scooters are classified as mopeds, bicycles, or motor scooters. This type of power scooter is generally not permitted inside buildings, and may not be allowed on sidewalks. The scooters are often not street-legal. Some areas allow folding electric scooters on public transportation, requiring the user to carry the folded scooter at all times.

The term "power scooter" refers to mobility electric scooters, but is sometimes used in traffic law to describe any motor scooter or non-disabled electric scooter. It is important to understand the differences between various types of power scooters prior to making a purchase. After purchasing your scooter, be certain to check for applicable traffic laws, searching a variety of terms.