Wheelchair vs. ECV [Merged Thread]

[Charleyann]

One thing to consider if he does get his own ECV. One of the local suppier's Randy's Mobility (see disABILTIES FAQ Post #2) will rent an ECV to people as young as 12 if they normally have their own and do not bring it with them. They will have the person who drops the ECV off make sure the child can handle it. I do not think any of the other suppiers will allow someone that young to be the driver.

Does Disney mind a child driving his own ECV at that age? (12-13 years old)

Wouldn't it be easier to bring his own ECV? Also, are planes ok with ECV?

Thanks

Charleyann

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Does Disney mind a child driving his own ECV at that age? (12-13 years old)

Wouldn't it be easier to bring his own ECV? Also, are planes ok with ECV?

Thanks

Charleyann

Disney will not rent an ECV to be driven by anyone under 18. If they have their own, or it is rented from an off-site provider, they cannot stop a person from using it unless it is driven in an irresponsible (and potentially dangerous) manner.

As far as I know, Randy's is the only off-site supplier who will allow drivers under 18, and before releasing the ECV to the family will verify that the person who will be driving it is able to handle it properly.

I have seen children as young as five years old driving power chairs in the parks.

And as far as airlines are concerned. An ECV can be "gate checked" with no problem on any airline, and does not count against luggage allowances.

The big problems for an ECV with an airplane are twofold. One involves getting it to and from the airport, especially if the family and luggage pretty much fill up the car. The other can involve the logistics of connecting flights.