Do I Need a Mobility Scooter?

Mobility scooters (also known as electric scooters or medical scooters) can help you travel short to medium distances if you are having trouble.

Our staff at Access Abilities Oakville and Etobicoke regularly receive many questions around purchasing and renting scooters. Here are some of these most common questions about scooters answered to help you decide if they are the right fit for you:

What is a mobility scooter?

Mobility scooters are electric-powered mobility aids that are slower and more sturdy that regular electric motor scooters.

Watch this brief video of some mobility scooters in action:

How fast can a mobility scooter go?

Mobility scooters are much slower than other scooters and typically can only travel up to 15 km per hour (10mph).

How far can a mobility scooter travel before it needs a charge?

How far a mobility scooter can travel depends on the size of the battery, age of the battery and how long you have charged for. A fully charged battery of a large scooter can last up to 25km. You should always be aware of how long your own scooter can travel from your own experience, and never leave home without a fully charged battery.

What is the difference between a mobility scooter and an electric wheelchair?

Here are some of the key differences:

Electric wheelchairs

Are generally designed for people with very little to no mobility
Can be more easily manoeuvred with joystick-style controls
Capable of travelling for longer distances than mobility scooters
Can manoeuvre tighter spaces and tougher terrain than mobility scooters
Are more compact than mobility scooters

Mobility scooters

Designed for people with limited mobility but enough strength and control to balance and use both hands to steer
Larger than most electric wheelchairs and generally not foldable
Most require special equipment to attach to your vehicle

Who is a mobility scooter suitable for?

Mobility scooters are great for people with some mobility but are finding it difficult to walk short distances. A scooter can provide independence to run errands and travel within close proximity of your home. To operate a mobility scooter you will need enough balance and strength to control and steer them with both hands.

Do I need to register my mobility scooter?

If your scooter is classified as a medical device then current legislation from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation does not require registration, licence plates, a driver’s licence or insurance.

You should always check directly with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation regarding your specific circumstances if you have any questions or concerns.

Where should I drive my mobility scooter? On the road? Or the sidewalk?

Here are current guidelines from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation regarding wheelchairs and medical scooters:

Most municipalities have set by-laws about where wheelchairs can and can’t be used.

A sidewalk should be the first choice for someone using a wheelchair or medical scooter. Check with your local municipality to see if the by- laws allow their use on sidewalks.

When there is no wheelchair-accessible curb, return to the sidewalk at the first available opportunity.

If there is no sidewalk available, you should:

travel along the left shoulder of the roadway facing oncoming traffic
look for a way to get onto a sidewalk safely and as soon as you can

Can I rent a mobility scooter if I only need one temporarily?

Yes, Access Abilities offers mobility scooters available for rent across the GTA, including Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga and Toronto.

CLICK HERE to view our current rental prices

How much do scooters cost?

The cost of a scooter can vary greatly on the size, model and make. Contact us now to discuss a free, no-obligation quote to find the best scooter to suit your needs and budget.

Is there funding available for mobility scooters?

If you are assessed by a certified therapist you may be eligible to receive funding through ADP. Some individuals may be eligible for funding through Extended Health Benefits through insurance or your employer. There are also potential options through various charities and organizations. Access Abilities’ friendly and experienced staff can help you with queries on these claims and guide you through the process.