17
Driving
Read
The user must read these safety and driving instructions
before using the Eloflex power wheelchair.
Practice
Practice
makes perfect. Train to drive your Eloflex together
with an assistant by starting on an open plan surface,
preferably outdoors, before using your power wheelchair
among other people, in stores or restaurants etc.
• Move forward by moving the
joystick slowly forward.
• Stop by releasing the joystick.
Reverse
Reverse
by moving the joystick slowly backwards.
To stop, release the joystick. Remember to always
look backwards before you start reversing to be sure
that no person or thing is in the way.
Spin
Spin
by moving the joystick gently sideways. Take
care so nothing is in the way of the sides when you
spin.
Turn
Turn as you drive
by gently moving the joystick sideways in
the same direction you want to turn. Always lower the speed
when turning.
Obstacle
Practice
avoiding and passing obstacles. Move the
joystick sideways while driving forward to avoid
obstacles. Remember to lower the speed as you
approach obstacles.
Fast driving
Fast driving: Press the joystick in the forward position if you
want to drive fast. Remember to retract the joystick and lower
the speed as soon as you feel insecure, whether you are
turning or approaching an obstacle
Run over obstacles
Run over obstacles:
Drive slowly to the obstacle and make
sure the front wheels are in the direction of travel. Then move
the joystick slowly forward while leaning backwards to drive
over the obstacles Eloflex is tested and approved for ob
stacles up to a maximum of 6 cm.
Run on slope
Driving on slopes:
Try driving straight up or down for an
inclined surface. Lean slightly forward as you drive up, and
backwards as you drive down, to maintain the center of
gravity. Avoid driving sideways if possible and compensate for
any side slope by leaning in the opposite direction. Always
drive slowly on slopes. Avoid surfaces that tilt more than 9
degrees.
Elevators
Using the elevator:
Remember to check the width of the
elevator door and how quickly the door is closed before you
enter the lift. Keep in mind that you may have to reverse out of
the lift if it is not large enough to allow you to turn around
Driving on the road
Driving on the road:
Drive primarily on sidewalks,
walkways and cycle paths and, ultimately, on busy
roadways with your Eloflex..
Cross the roadway
Crossing the roadway:
if possible, always choose to cross
the road at a pedestrian crossing. Pay attention to intersecting
cars. Use chamfered part of the pavement if available. Avoid
curbs higher than 6 cm.
