A Basic Driving Lesson for Power Chair Users
When you first get or test your power chair, you need to learn how to use it. While this shouldn't be too difficult for the majority of us, we have provided a few basic tips to help you along.
Basic Driving Tips
We suggest that you first try your new vehicle in an open space - clear of other road users!
First ensure that you are comfortable and relaxed in the power chair or scooter. Ensure that the joy stick speed control is turned to minimum, and then turn the key switch to on. Gently accelerate and decelerate - practise this function until you have the "feel" of the joystick. You should find that steering is easy and logical, the joystick is sensitive and does not require strength to use.
Be sure to allow enough clearance when turning corners. (Don’t worry - this will become second nature with practice.) When cornering, be careful to leave plenty of space when turning round corners. This will ensure that the rear wheels do not encounter any obstacle.
When in a tight space, such as entering a doorway at an angle or when turning, stop the vehicle, then gently turn the joystick to the direction required, re-applying the power gently. This will allow the electric wheelchair to turn sharply. It is advised that the speed is set to a slow setting to aid such manoeuvres.
Do not cut corners on pavements, in case a rear wheel slips off the payment. It is also advisable to take a wide line on a corner, as already mentioned.
When reversing, you will notice that the reverse speed is usually 50% slower. If the product does not move, gently increase the throttle speed.
Care should always be taken when travelling on a slope - always reduce speed. If possible, aim the power chair straight up or down the slope - if you travel sideways across an incline you are more likely to tip the chair.
It is advisable to switch the key off when you stop and chat to friends. This will avoid any sudden movement. To ensure your insurance remains valid, always take the key with you when leaving the wheelchair.
Not all power chairs are designed to mount kerbs. Some have kerb climbers fitted, however it is advisable to look for council provided drop kerbs for both comfort and safety. If no drop kerb is provided the local authority can provide this, and indeed has an obligation to do so within 6 weeks of your purchase of the product. Contact the highways office or your local Disabled Access Officer for more information.
Finally, always reduce your speed when cornering.
