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Maintenance and safety tips for mobility devices

Tips for using your electric wheelchair or mobility scooter safely and maintaining it well

Safety tips
Maintenance tips
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Staying safe on your motorised mobility device

Motorised scooters and wheelchairs are a great solution for people who can't walk or have trouble walking long distances.

Whether you're running errands, heading to school or work, or planning a day trip, a motorised mobility device can help you get from A to B with ease.

There are 3- and 4-wheel options, medium and large sized scooters or portable ones to suit different needs.

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Safety tips

Here are a few ways you can ensure a safe and enjoyable outing on your mobility device:

Know the road rules

The maximum speed allowed for motorised mobility devices in Victoria is 10km/h on level ground. Make sure you're travelling at the right speed to keep you and pedestrians safe.

Explore mobility road rules

Don't carry too much

Overloading your mobility device with too much weight can:

  • drain the battery
  • affect the stability of your scooter.

Add a flag for increased visibility

You can increase your visibility by adding a safety flag to your device, wearing bright colours or using lights, indicators and reflectors.

Balance the weight with accessories if needed

You can add baskets, bags and pods to your vehicle to maintain proper balance. Check with the manufacturer to see which accessories are best for your needs.

Maintenance tips

Whatever style scooter or wheelchair you own, you can prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your mobility device by following these simple tips:

Be aware of the surfaces your device was intended for

Not all mobility devices are made to travel on rough or uneven surfaces like dirt, grass or loose gravel.

Just like cars, motorised scooters and wheelchairs need to be serviced

Depending on how much you use it, you should service your mobility device at least every 12 months.

Keep your battery well charged and try to avoid letting it drain completely

Most manuals include information on how long you'll need to charge your vehicle for depending on how frequently you use it.

Keep your device clean by wiping it down with a damp cloth

This is especially important if you're using it in coastal or dusty environments, as dirt, sand and salty water can cause damage to moving parts.

Check your mobility device regularly

Look out for corrosion, loose parts and accidental damage and inform your provider of any issues as soon as you notice them.