First time to Disney using an ECV; very worried

[MathLover]

Hi. I will be going to Disney World on Saturday for the first time in 6 or 7 years. Within the last 3 months, I've started needing a cane daily and need an ECV to go anywhere that I need to be quick or walk long distances. I'm anxious about going to Magic Kingdom because of this. I know that up until a few months ago, people in wheelchairs would get to go to the front on some rides. Do they still do something like this at any of the rides? I don't mind waiting at all, but I can't ask my husband to push me if I have to transfer (he has a bad back). Can ECV's go in all lines to wait?
My husband and I plan to stay most of the day; will in die in the middle of the day? What do we do if it dies? Are there any areas we should avoid due to using the ECV? I'd really appreciate any tips/advice. I don't want our day to be ruined because we weren't aware of something.

Super grateful for any thoughts!

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Hi and to disABILITIES!

The majority of attraction lines in WDW are "mainstreamed". This means that a wheelchair or ECV will use the regular entrance and line all the way to either a show seating or ride load area. If a line is not mainstreamed there will be signs and/or Cast Members to direct you where to go.

If a show, normally there will be spaces to park a chair or ECV and there will be seats next to the space for other members of the group.

If a ride, usually you will have to transfer to a ride vehicle, although some rides will allow a person in a wheelchair to remain in their chair. If you have to transfer to a ride, and unload is not at the same location as load, your chair or ECV will magically appear at the unload area.

If you click on where it says "disABILTIES" at the top of this page it will take you to the Index. One of the top items is the "disABILTIES FAQ" which will gives lots of useful information. Note that Post #2 discusses mobility and equipment. Post #3 had a wide variety of information and links; it might be a good idea to look at the various park "Guidebook For Persons With Disabilities" for more detailed information.

Or, if you want an easier route to the FAQs, click on the link in my signature.

 

[ttintagel]

There will be a CM stationed outside each attraction; he or she will tell you what the procedure is for that attraction. Make sure to turn the ECV off and take the key with you whenever you get out of it. Even though it's turned off, the CM can steer it to the exit area so it'll be waiting for you when you get off the ride.

Theater-type attractions will have wheelchair seating, usually in the back, made up of seats with gaps between them where you can pull your ECV up next to a seat.

Keep an eye on the battery level; we did find ourselves running low by the end of some days. A CM can usually direct you to an electric outlet to plug in and charge for a few minutes. Off the top of my head: In the MK, there are some in the arches under the train station and just outside the gates; in EPCOT Future World, there are a bunch of them in the flower beds.

 

[MathLover]

Thank you for both replies! That makes me feel quite a bit better with the trip!

 

[Betty Rohrer]

see that you have used an ECV but if you can get a little practice in at a store before you go will help. biggest thing I can tell you for in the parks is be aware of people around you and expect them to step in front of you.

 

[NYCrules]

see that you have used an ECV but if you can get a little practice in at a store before you go will help. biggest thing I can tell you for in the parks is be aware of people around you and expect them to step in front of you.

Amen to that!