Many people use mobile scooters to travel in urban areas and inside large buildings. They typically run on electric power, and most models have three wheels. When compared to walkers and wheelchairs, mobile scooters offer several advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Using a Mobile Scooter

1. A mobility scooter can maneuver well and move quickly. Many models have maximum speeds of 4 to 8 MPH. This is considerably faster than most people move when they walk or use wheelchairs. A few scooters can even travel as fast as 15 MPH.

2. Baskets are available for many mobile scooters. They attach to the handlebars or the back of the seat. People can use them to carry groceries and other small items. To move additional cargo, owners can buy small trailers for their scooters.

3. Mobility scooters are comfortable. Most models have adjustable padded seats. Many of them feature armrests and headrests. The seats often resemble high-end office chairs. Some scooters also have canopies to protect riders from rain and bright sun.

4. People can prevent muscle strain and injuries by using small motorized vehicles. A manual wheelchair on the other hand may require a good deal of physical effort.

5. Mobility scooters offer valuable safety features such as headlights, horns, mirrors, and bumpers. These can improve the scooter's visibility and help to prevent accidents. Some models can even have four wheels which provides additional stability.

Disadvantages of Using a Mobile Scooter

1. Mobility scooters require more maintenance than a walker or a manual wheelchair. They may also require replacement batteries from time to time. Additionally, there are belts, gears and other parts that may need to be replaced.

2. A mobility scooter won't move if its motor or battery fails. Manufacturers discourage people from using these scooters in heavy rain and large amounts of moisture can damage the electronic components. Manual wheelchairs are may be less likely to stop working.

3. Mobile scooters do not give riders any opportunity to exercise. People can burn as many as 120 calories in 30 minutes on a manual wheelchair.

4. It can be difficult to fit a mobility scooter in most cars, as opposed to walkers or folding wheelchairs.

5. Mobile scooters can be expensive if health insurance companies don't pay a large portion of the price, while a basic wheelchair may be purchased for under $150.