Choosing the proper lift for your specific vehicle

 Rely on your mobility aids vendor to help you with distinctive options that fit you, your lifestyle and budget best. From choosing the proper lift for your specific vehicle to upgrading a lift with a more comfortable seat or sling, buy from supportive and dependable retailers that will provide service after the sale with a smile. Take heed with tips for choosing the right vehicle lift to ensure satisfaction and accessibility after the sale.

If you are looking at equipment and mobility aids that will help you preserve autonomy, a vehicle lift can be life-altering. The key is to buy your mobility devices and lifts from reputable area retailers that will not only demonstrate and explain specifics with you, but that will provide installation, service, and support- long after you have taken your equipment home with you. This could not be more important than when making an investment in a vehicle lift, such as the Bruno Chariot;  proper operation and performance are critical to increasing the user’s access and convenience every day.

Some tips when narrowing-in on your mobility options and choosing the proper lift for your specific vehicle, are:

Got a hitch? Know that outside vehicle lifts secure to a hitch on the back of your vehicle. The lift is comprised of a platform that moves your chair or scooter, holding it while you use the vehicle. These lifts require an installed class-three hitch; talk to mobility vendors to learn more.

Carry it with you. If you prefer to carry your chair or scooter in the cargo space of your vehicle, an inside lift might be for you. These lifts are tough, often holding up to 400 pounds.

Try a hybrid if you have a larger vehicle. The cool thing about a hybrid lift is that it powers out and down to meet the user, as your chair or scooter is lifted by the platform and stowed for you. These types of lifts require larger vehicles, like vans, SUVs, and mini-vans.

Truck lifts provide options. If you drive a truck, a truck lift is going to give you more options in terms of where you load your mobility aids. For example, most truck lifts provide access from the driver side, passenger side, curbside, or even the tailgate.

Keep up on the industry news. The lifts and technology involved in these devices change regularly. Before you shell out your money for a vehicle lift, make sure that you are getting something that won’t be made obsolete next year. The best resource for this type of industry information is going to be the internet, as well as the expertise of your mobility retailer- as long as you go with someone who is known locally and that has an established reputation.

Be prepared before you shop. Know that you will be asked some specific questions pertaining to your needs when you look at or browse mobility devices; make sure to be prepared with information. Otherwise, you could be wasting your time. Some typical questions include if you use a chair or scooter, what the brand of your aid is, if there are any custom features on your device, what kind of vehicle do you have, and what is the year and make. These general queries will help pinpoint the most pragmatic lifts for you and your vehicle.

Lifts can add length. A vehicle lift, particularly an outside lift, will add length to your car or truck.

Be prepared to sacrifice your back seat. Investing in an inside lift will usually take up the back seat of your vehicle, so know that these lifts can limit and reduce your seating capacity.

Buying a vehicle soon? If you are thinking about buying a vehicle soon to accommodate your lift, know that vans, trucks, and SUVs are the easiest and most versatile options for lifts.

Familiarize yourself with tongue weight. Don’t forget to figure in the weight of the lift when determining if your lift will work for your needs. This equates to the tongue weight and points out if the lift can adequately work for you. The tongue weight is the maximum pounds that can be safely suspended from the back of your vehicle, and you may find this information in your vehicle’s owner manual.

How much does your scooter or chair weigh? Get to know how much your chair or scooter weights; typically, a scooter weights up to 200-pounds, and a lift weighs between 100-120 pounds; does this exceed your tongue weight?

Don’t try to curb costs by buying a used or second-hand lift from a private party. These types of deals may save you a few bucks initially, but your device won’t be backed by a satisfaction guarantee, service, support, and technical advice. The few dollars difference is well-worth the insight and knowledge of buying from a reputable professional.

When it comes to choosing options and features for your mobility aids, rely on the expertise of Pacific Mobility; highly-rated and touted by customers widely, this company provides support throughout the sales experience, from the installation of your device to an augment later-on. Be prudent with your purchases and buy from merchants that work to gain your trust and your patronage. Call us today.