Avoiding Electric Wheelchair Scams
There are a growing number of mobility devices and accessories on the market that allow you to recapture your independence and mobility. To ensure that you select the very best electric wheelchair for you, take the time to consider your mobility requirements and how you will use your new electric wheelchair, compare product features and service and most importantly, ask the right questions to avoid possible scams and negative experiences with unscrupulous companies. Here are a few questions that will pinpoint the right electric wheelchair and company for you:
How long has the company selling the electric wheelchair been in business?
You want to purchase an electric wheelchair from a company with a solid reputation for providing reliable mobility products. For example, Hoveround has been in business for over 17 years and has sold over 140,000 electric wheelchairs.
How will the electric wheelchair be configured to your height and weight specifications?
You will be spending a lot of time in your new electric wheelchair and you want to make sure it fits properly, so that it can be as supportive and comfortable as possible. Our Mobility Specialist measures your torso, hips, arms and legs to create the perfect seat height and distance between where the small of your back meets the back of the chair. We also measure your home’s doorways and hallways so that you can maneuver easily through your home.
What credentials does the person completing your personal assessment hold?
All mobility assessments are completed by our factory-trained Hoveround Mobility Specialists. They are experienced in assessing mobility needs, evaluating physical requirements and adjusting electric chairs to fit their owners’ body and environmental measurements. They are supported by our team of registered nurses, physical therapists and occupational therapists who also have years of experience prescribing the right mobility devices to improve mobility.
Is the company selling your electric wheelchair the same company that manufactures and services your electric wheelchair?
Most electric wheelchairs are sold through a distributor or dealer. This is cumbersome for consumers because most dealers offer such a large variety of products by different manufacturers, so their knowledge on the parts and service of specific items are limited. In addition, if you are unhappy with your electric wheelchair, you may have to contact both the electric wheelchair manufacturer and the electric wheelchair dealer to reach a resolution. We only offer Hoveround-manufactured electric wheelchairs that are serviced by Hoveround-trained staff (no sub-contractors — only Hoveround employees) that are intimately familiar with every Hoveround component and accessory. That means you only have to call Hoveround if you ever have any issues.
How durable is the electric wheelchair?
Hoveround electric wheelchairs are built to last with a modular design that ensures we have the parts to keep your electric wheelchair running smoothly for years to come.
Is a warranty included with your electric wheelchair purchase? If so, what is included in the warranty?
All Hoveround electric wheelchairs come with a one year limited warranty. During this one year period, we will repair your Hoveround electric wheelchair if it’s defective in any way, at no cost to you. See our warranty for more details.
How will you get your mobility equipment and products serviced?
We have service throughout most of the United States so if you relocate or are out of town, you will still have access to Hoveround service.2
2 Restrictions apply. Call for details.
