08/27/2026
ā ļø WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOUR POWER WHEELCHAIR BREAKS DOWN AWAY FROM HOME?
A flat tire or mechanical problem can happen unexpectedly. Knowing who to call can keep you safeāand help you avoid a very expensive emergency call-out.
First, move to a safe location if you can and turn on any lights or hazard signals your chair has.
If you are injured, in immediate danger or stranded in an active roadway, call 911.
If you are safely out of traffic and it is a mechanical breakdown, consider these options:
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Call a family member, caregiver or support person
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Contact an accessible wheelchair van, taxi or cab service
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Call your mobility-equipment provider and explain what happened
An accessible taxi may cost a little more than a standard cab, but it is often far more manageable than calling a tow truck or arranging an emergency service call.
Please avoid:
ā Attempting a roadside repair you are not trained to perform
ā Letting someone lift or tow the chair incorrectly
ā Continuing to drive if doing so could cause more damage
ā Assuming a technician can immediately leave another appointment
Please do call usāwe need to know what happened so we can help plan the repair. However, same-day roadside service may not always be possible. Our technicians may already be working with another client, and some tires, motors and specialized parts must be ordered. We can inform you of what we can do for you at that time.
Emergency call-outs can cost $200ā$300 or more, depending on the location and work required. We will always do our best to help, but having a safe transportation back up plan can save you time, stress and unexpected expense.
A little preparation goes a long way: keep emergency contacts and the number of a local accessible taxi service saved in your phone.