How to Steer a Mobility Scooter

Unlike Power Wheelchairs with their steering control near the side armrest, the steering control on a Mobility Scooter is located on a tiller. The tiller is the steering column located at the front of the scooter that provides forward/reverse directions and speed controls. The direction of the scooter is controlled by thumb paddles, finger controls or a switch.

There are several types of tillers:

Delta Tiller: A delta tiller has handles on each side that wrap around. This allows the user to steer the scooter in a variety of hand and wrist positions, which provides maximum comfort. Pride offers the Celebrity X 3-Wheel with this feature.

Fully Adjustable Tiller: A fully adjustable tiller allows positioning of tiller for greatest comfort and makes mounting and dismounting less difficult. ActiveCare Medical offers The Prowler 3410 with this feature. This tiller has 5 different adjustment angles for easy mount and dismount.  You can see the adjustment knob in the picture.

One-handed throttle control: A joy stick like mechanism which allows for one handed control of the Mobility Scooter. The Pride Revo SC63 offers this feature.

Each type offers benefits to meet specific needs of the passenger. Considering the passengers come in all weights and sizes, these options are helpful in determining the steering comfort level desired in a mobility scooter.

Depending upon the type of scooter, there are advantages and disadvantages in regard to steering functions.

Advantages:

• 3 Wheel Mobility Scooters are very maneuverable in small spaces - small turning radius.
  
  
• 4 Wheel Mobility Scooters are easier to steer on rough terrain due to its wide stance.

Disadvantages:

• 3 Wheel Mobility Scooters are more susceptible to getting caught in ruts in the roads with their front tire.
  
  
• 4 Wheel Mobility Scooters require a wider turning radius.

Mobility Scooters have changed the face of transportation for the disabled community. Although their power has offered ease of movement, freedom and independence, it has some limitations in regard to steering. Most scooters require upright posture, shoulder and hand strength, and some upper body mobility and strength. If any of these are an issue, it could affect the steering function of the scooter.

In addition to these requirements, there are road conditions to consider. Some mobility scooters have a low ground clearance which can make it difficult to navigate roads without proper curb cuts, or small rooms indoors including grocery stores or clothing stores where items are often on display in the isles. Accessories such as baskets or cup holders can also affect the maneuverability of the scooter.

Flexibility, weight, road conditions and accessories affect the steering feature of all mobility scooters.

When purchasing a Mobility Scooter, it is important to select a scooter that is equipped to handle the specific needs of the user i.e. weight, size and flexibility. These factors will affect the steering mechanism and could void the warranty. Rule of thumb - purchase a mobility scooter that is rated for your weight or size.

Steering the mobility scooter takes a little practice. For those accustomed to a manual chair, having POWER under their control can be a little scary at first, but practice makes perfect.