A mobility scooter is a lifeline for those with limited mobility, providing an invaluable sense of independence and freedom.
These scooters, in essence, help bridge the gap between inability and ability.
But what about when you want to go somewhere that’s not within the scooter’s range?
Specifically, what if you need to travel by car or SUV?
Is it possible to fit a mobility scooter in these vehicles?
The answer is not simple as it depends on various factors such as the size and type of your scooter, and the space in your vehicle, among other aspects.
Let’s delve into this topic and explore the possibilities and considerations.
Key Takeaways
- The Size of Your Mobility Scooter Matters: Not all scooters are created equal. Some are compact and lightweight, while others are heavy-duty and robust. The size and design of your scooter will directly impact its compatibility with your car or SUV. You can find more details about the different types of scooters in our comprehensive guide on mobility scooters.
- Your Vehicle’s Space is Crucial: The size of your vehicle’s trunk or interior space is a crucial factor in determining whether or not a scooter can fit. Some scooters can be disassembled into smaller parts and can easily fit into larger trunks, while others require more space or specialized vehicle modifications.
- Lifting a Mobility Scooter Can be a Challenge: Depending on its type, a mobility scooter can be heavy, making it difficult to lift and place in a vehicle. If not done correctly, this could lead to injury. It’s worth checking the weight of your scooter – you can do this in our mobility scooter weight guide.
- Vehicle Modifications Might be Needed: To facilitate the transport of mobility scooters, you might need to consider vehicle modifications such as installing scooter lifts or ramps. These devices can be particularly helpful if your mobility is severely limited or if your scooter is on the larger side.
- Transporting a Scooter Comes with Risks: If not secured properly, a mobility scooter can move around while the vehicle is in motion, posing a risk to the driver and passengers. It’s important to ensure that the scooter is safely secured before setting off.
How Much Space Do Mobility Scooters Take?
Just as cars and SUVs come in different sizes and shapes, so do mobility scooters. Depending on the design, mobility scooters can range in size from compact models that are about the size of a carry-on suitcase to heavy-duty models that are as big as a small couch. While compact scooters may fit comfortably in the trunk or backseat of many vehicles, larger scooters require more space.
The size of your vehicle also matters. A compact car with a small trunk may struggle to accommodate even the smallest mobility scooters, while an SUV with plenty of trunk space may be able to handle a larger scooter. Measure the dimensions of your trunk or backseat to get an idea of how much space you have to work with. It might be beneficial to compare these measurements with the dimensions of your mobility scooter to see if it can fit.
Remember, the goal is not only to get the scooter into the vehicle but also to do it safely and without damaging either the vehicle or the scooter. So always leave some wiggle room. If you’re contemplating a new mobility scooter purchase, our mobility scooter buying guide might come in handy.
Some Mobility Scooters Can Be Easily Disassembled
Many mobility scooters are designed to be disassembled for transportation. These scooters typically break down into several smaller pieces, making them easier to fit into the trunk of a car or SUV. Travel mobility scooters are the most common type that can be disassembled. They are lightweight, and when broken down, their parts can often be carried by an individual without much difficulty. Find more about this in our article on the best travel mobility scooters.
If your scooter can be disassembled, make sure you’re comfortable doing it. Disassembly and reassembly should be easy and shouldn’t require too much strength. Be sure you know how to safely disassemble your scooter to prevent damage or injury. Also, remember to consider where you’ll store the disassembled parts in your vehicle. They should be securely stowed to avoid movement while driving.
Mobility Scooters Are Too Heavy to Be Lifted
Mobility scooters can be heavy. Even smaller, more compact models can weigh up to 100 pounds, while larger, more robust models can weigh 200 pounds or more. This weight makes them difficult, if not impossible, to lift without assistance.
Trying to lift a heavy mobility scooter into a car or SUV can be a safety risk. Improper lifting can lead to back strain or other injuries. Also, the scooter could be damaged if it’s dropped. It’s essential to know your limits and seek help if needed.
If your mobility scooter is too heavy for you to lift comfortably and safely, don’t force it. There are other solutions available, like scooter lifts for cars, which we’ll discuss in the next section. For a deeper dive into the weight considerations of mobility scooters, check out our guide on mobility scooter weight.
Risks of Putting a Mobility Scooter in the Trunk
The trunk is an obvious choice for transporting smaller items, but when it comes to mobility scooters, it’s not as simple. Here’s why:
Limited Space: Even with a spacious trunk, the dimensions may not be enough to accommodate most mobility scooters. You may find that your trunk is too shallow, too narrow, or too short to fit your scooter properly. Moreover, if you have other luggage to transport, it further reduces the available space.
Weight Constraints: Trunks are designed to handle a certain weight. While they can usually handle a few heavy suitcases, they are not necessarily designed to support the weight of a mobility scooter. This can lead to wear and tear on your vehicle’s suspension, and in severe cases, it can even cause structural damage.
Safety Risks: If a mobility scooter is not securely fastened in the trunk, it can become a dangerous projectile in case of an accident or even during hard braking. This poses a risk not only to the vehicle and its passengers but also to other road users.
Scooter Lifts for Cars
A scooter lift can be an excellent solution for transporting a mobility scooter with your car or SUV. Scooter lifts are devices that can be installed on the back of your vehicle and are designed to lift and transport your scooter safely. These devices are divided into three main categories:
Outside Lifts: These are attached to the hitch of the vehicle and allow the mobility scooter to be transported on an external platform. They are usually easy to operate, require no physical strength, and most don’t require any modification to your vehicle.
Inside Lifts: These are installed inside the trunk or back of the vehicle. They lift and store the mobility scooter inside, protecting it from the elements. These lifts may require some vehicle modification and a spacious interior to fit both the lift and the scooter.
Hybrid Lifts: These are a mix of the two above. They are installed inside the vehicle, but they bring the scooter to the vehicle door. Once the scooter is at the door, it is then lifted and stored inside the vehicle.
If you’re considering a scooter lift, it’s important to consider your vehicle type, the size and weight of your mobility scooter, and your physical capabilities.
Taking Your Scooter on a Trailer
An alternate solution for transporting your mobility scooter is to use a trailer. The trailer is hitched to the back of the vehicle, and the scooter is rolled onto the trailer and secured. The main benefits of a trailer include:
Space: Trailers can accommodate almost any type of mobility scooter, regardless of size or weight.
Ease of Use: Trailers are generally easier to load and unload than a trunk or lift. Some even come with built-in ramps for effortless loading.
Versatility: Trailers can be used for other purposes when not transporting the scooter.
However, using a trailer also has its cons, like the additional cost, the need for a vehicle with a hitch, and the challenge of driving and parking with a trailer attached.
Modified Vehicles With Ramps
A more extensive, yet highly convenient solution for transporting mobility scooters is to use a modified vehicle. These vehicles are built or modified with ramps or lifts to allow the mobility scooter to be driven directly into the vehicle.
Examples of these vehicles include modified minivans and SUVs with built-in ramps, or full-size vans with lifts. These vehicles offer unparalleled convenience for scooter users, as they allow the user to stay seated in the scooter during the entire process.
Best Mobility Scooters for Car Travel
If you plan on traveling frequently with your mobility scooter, you might want to consider models specifically designed for travel. Here are some features to look out for:
Lightweight Design: These mobility scooters are made with lightweight materials, making them easier to lift and transport.
Compact Size: Travel-friendly scooters often have a more compact design, allowing them to fit into smaller spaces.
Disassembly: Some models can be disassembled into several smaller, lighter pieces, making them easier to transport.
Portable Scooters: These scooters are designed for travel. They are typically smaller, lighter, and can be folded or disassembled easily for transport.
Brands like Pride and Drive Medical offer travel-friendly options that are easy to disassemble and lightweight.
The guide on the best travel mobility scooters provides an in-depth comparison of the best options in the market.
In conclusion, whether a mobility scooter can fit in a car or SUV depends on several factors such as the size and design of the scooter, the available space in the vehicle, and the use of additional equipment like lifts or trailers.
While it may seem like a daunting task at first, with the right information and careful consideration, transporting a mobility scooter can be quite manageable.
All the claims made in this article are only for informational purposes, based on the writer’s experience and not clinical advice. You should always consult your physician or physical therapist if you have any doubts about how this applies to your specific case.
Rami is an economist with a passion for personal finance and a desire to help people make the most of their retirement years. He’s also the tech mind that made all of this possible, and a marketing enthusiast. In his articles, Ramiro offers real-life advice and resources for seniors looking to manage their finances and make the most of their retirement savings. He is dedicated to helping his readers live comfortably and securely during their golden years.