Control Through Tight Spots - 2GOability Quest User Manual

4.6 Control through tight spots

As you use your power chair to greatly increase your mobility, you will undoubtedly
encounter some obstacles that will require practice to manoeuvre smoothly and safely.
Below are some common obstacles that you may meet during the daily use of your
power chair. Listed with those obstacles are some driving tips that should help you
conquer those obstacles. Learn and follow those tips, and with surprising ease you will
soon be in control of your power chair as you manoeuvre it through doors, up and
down ramps, up and over curbs, through grass and gravel, and up and down inclines.
Doors
Approach any door slowly;
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Notice if the door has a door knob or a push bar;
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Determine if the door opens towards you or away form you;
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Do not try to use your own strength to open the door. Learn to use the power of

you power chair to do the majority of the work for you.
If the door opens away from you
Use one hand to turn the door knob or to operate the push bar;

Use your other hand to control the power chair by gently operating the joystick to

move your power chair slowly forward;
Use your arm to push the door gently open;

Drive through the doorway;

If it is a self closing door, it will close behind you;

If it is not a self closing door, stop your power chair when it is clear of the door

and use your hand to push the door closed.
If the door opens towards you
Use one hand to turn the door knob or to pull the handle;

Keep your grip on the door knob or on the handle;

Use your other hand to control the power chair by gently operating the joystick to

move your power chair slowly backward;
Allow the power of your power chair to pull the door completely open;

When the door is completely open, stop your power chair;

Drive through the doorway while keeping your hand on the door to prevent it

form hitting or blocking your power chair;
If it is a self closing door, it will close behind you;

If it is not a self closing door, pull the door to close it behind you.
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