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Mobility scooters are a lifeline for many, and they are an efficient mode of transport for those struggling to get around.
But when they run out of steam and need to be replaced, how can you dispose of an old mobility scooter?
If the mobility scooter isn’t broken beyond repair, you can sell or donate it so that it gets a new lease on life. Alternatively, there is the option to scrap it for parts or have it recycled.
When it’s time to say goodbye to your old mobility scooter, there’s always an efficient and easy way to dispose of it.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Mobility scooters are a great way for those with limited mobility to get around.
- Disposing of an old mobility scooter can be tricky, but there are a few things you can do.
- It’s important to properly recycle or dispose of an old mobility scooter to prevent any environmental damage.
How to Dispose of an Old Mobility Scooter
There are several ways you can dispose of your old mobility scooter, and the GOOD news is that they are all really easy to accomplish [1].
Let’s take a more detailed look at the various disposal methods available.
Sell the Mobility Scooter Online Second Hand
If your mobility scooter is still working and in good condition, you may be able to sell it second-hand.
There are PLENTY of websites that specialize in mobility scooters, which offer a great platform for selling yours.
You will likely be able to get a GREAT price for the mobility scooter so long as it’s in good condition and works as it should.
If you have any accompanying mobility equipment, it can be handy to sell it ALONGSIDE the second-hand mobility scooter.
Medical equipment, in general, is very expensive, and someone might be able to make use of it.
Pro Tip: While using websites like eBay can be tempting, remember that they take a fairly high percentage of your profits, and shipping costs are restricted.
Donate the Mobility Scooter to a Charity
If you cannot sell the mobility scooter or don’t want to, DONATING it to a mobility charity is another great option [2].
It’s a great way to give back to the community and also ensures that you aren’t wasting a perfectly FUNCTIONAL mobility scooter.
Additionally, if your scooter turns out to be unsuitable for use, the charity can recycle it using the proper methods.
You can donate a disposing mobility scooter to charities that SPECIALIZE in mobility options, which will ensure that your electric scooter gets passed on to someone in need.
Explore our other articles for valuable insights: “Should I leave my mobility scooter on charge all the time?” “Are Electric Scooters Street Legal in the US,” and “Can You Take Scooters on Buses?”
Scrap the Mobility Scooter for Parts
If your mobility scooter is no longer functional or beyond repair, you have the option to SCRAP it.
In this case, you will be able to get some money back for the mobility scooter thanks to its parts and material being recycled and reused.
Alternatively, you can take the mobility scooter to a SCRAPYARD to find out what your mobility scooter is worth.
The metal alone is usually worth a few bucks that can help towards the cost of a replacement scooter.
Pro Tip: Removing functional parts and selling them online can prove a profitable endeavor if you’re looking to help others while also ensuring the proper disposal of your scooter.
Recycle the Mobility Scooters
If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option for disposing of your mobility scooter, RECYCLING is the way to go. They will even take the old batteries.
According to Melissa Kelley, Director of Marketing Communications at Battery Solutions, “It’s important to remember that every battery can be recycled, turned into a secondary commodity, and have a productive life beyond powering our favorite devices.”
A recycling center is almost always equipped to deal with a mobility scooter disposal situation. They will take your OLD scooter and ensure it is recycled environmentally. [3]
There are many different recycling sites that can offer this service.
Usually, you can also arrange for the recycling company to come and COLLECT the mobility scooter from your home for an additional fee. This can be very helpful if you struggle to get out.
Pro Tip: Before recycling your mobility scooter, make sure to remove any batteries and other components, such as motors or lights, that can be recycled separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Dispose of Old Mobility Scooter Batteries?
The best way to dispose of the mobility scooter battery is to take it to your local recycling center. They will be able to recycle the battery in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
How Long Does a Mobility Scooter Last?
On average, mobility scooters can last anywhere between three to five years, depending on how well you look after them. They need minimal maintenance, but staying on top of it can help improve the lifespan of your scooter.
Conclusion
When it’s time for mobility scooter disposal, A FEW options are available. You can sell it second-hand, donate it to a charity, or recycle the parts for money.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to REMOVE any batteries and other components that can be recycled separately.
We hope this guide has been helpful as you decide what to do with your old mobility scooter and whether it’s good enough for you to give away or sell or if it needs to be recycled.
Resources:
- Scrap My Bike. Scrap My Bike. Published 2018. Accessed December 23, 2022. http://scrapmybike.com/mobility-scooters-scrapping/
- Motability | Enhancing lives of disabled people with transportation solutions. Motability.org.uk. Published 2022. Accessed December 23, 2022. https://www.motability.org.uk/
- Wheelchair Removal & Disposal Services | LoadUp. Goloadup.com. Published 2022. Accessed December 23, 2022. https://goloadup.com/what-we-take/bulk-item-removal/wheelchair/
what information does medicare require to approve providing coverage for a mobile scooter?
Hi and thank you for your comment!
I’ve done some research to answer your question. It seems that Medicare has such a facility and can help cover the costs of a power-operated scooter, but there are a few conditions:
A doctor must prescribe the scooter for use in your home. You must have a face-to-face examination with a doctor who will then write a prescription.
The scooter must be medically necessary. After you’ve met your Part B deductible, you typically pay 20% of the approved amount by Medicare. Depending on the type of scooter, you might need to either rent or buy it, or sometimes you can choose between the two. In some cases, you might need to get prior approval, or “prior authorization,” before Medicare will agree to cover the cost of the scooter.
Your scooter supplier should handle this process.
I hope this helps! For more detailed information, you can visit the official Medicare page on wheelchairs and scooters. =)