Thank You ! I ordered a ECV , going for 10 days with my daughter … I needed to hear from someone who wasn’t my Daughter or Husband Perfect Conversation.😊
I'm glad to hear that you got yourself an ECV for your visit. It's good to know that it took a third party to share the info. . . I'm sure you're not the only person out there who needs an outside opinion to help make the decision. We hope you have an AMAZING trip!
We are heading down to Disney World this Sunday. I had a Hip Replacement almost 3 weeks ago. My Doc suggested I don’t not over do it. So walking several miles a day is not recommended at this time. So my wife rented a ECV. Obviously I will not be able to ride certain rides. Disney here I come,so Look out. Lol
I used to live in a city and walked everywhere. Going on a vacation, I'd walk a fairly long distance before thinking about a taxi. Now I've got a bum hip and knee but power through on the daily. We went to Disneyworld and my wife asked me if i wanted a scooter. I scoffed and she got one anyway. It was invaluable. One for me, and because my wife let her feet get wet in socks on a rainy day that just made a mess of her feet. We traded off. Pushing our 5yo in a stroller was enough support for me to get through the very very very long days.
I wish I could give your video 10 thumbs up. I have a bad hip, and I realized several years ago that I'd need an ECV to enjoy Disney World. I occasionally need a cane in my daily life when the pain flares. When it flares, the pain is intense, and I have to stop walking. The availability of ECVs make it possible to continue visiting Disney World and truly enjoying the experience.
I was diagnosed two weeks ago with a foot issue called Haglund's Deformity. I've had it all my life, it turns out, and it explains the everyday foot/ankle pain I've been in for probably 10 years. Back in January we did 4 days in WDW, I was SHAMBLING by day 2. If I'd seen this video before that trip, I'd have gotten an ECV with zero shame, and had a much more magical time. So thanks for this. Next time, if I need a tool, I'll get the tool.
A big part of the problem with ECVs is all the people on two feet around us who have no idea how to safely share a walkway. ECVs DO NOT HAVE BRAKES. You squeeze the right handle to go forward and the left handle to go back. If you want to stop, you let go of the handle and hope it stops rolling in time. There's absolutely nothing we can do if you walk directly into our path or stop suddenly in front of us. I haven't used an ECV at Disney (yet), but I have used them at conventions. I've been walked into, leaned on like I'm furniture, bashed in the head by people swinging purses onto their shoulders, and one time someone nailed me with a tote bag full of books. Yes, you do occasionally come across reckless ECV users. But there are a lot more people walking around paying absolutely no attention to where they're going and turning the world into a stressful obstacle course for those of us on ECVs.
Big topic here. I’m finishing up a 8 day trip to Disney World and think I should have rented one. We routinely go and easily do 15k-20k step days at Disney. It’s been a slow rough trip. Not like our past trips and I’ve slowed down our small group. I’m a month removed from arthroscopic knee surgery and thought I was recovered enough to go at is slowly. Big mistake, I’ve been in constant pain and limping as the week went on. I wasn’t open to getting one after seeing my father years ago run into people too often after being very careful, just not used to operating one. Oh well, big topic, on towards our final two days. I’m a lot more compassionate towards others after this week.
All that walking and standing my back would go out. yes I'm short and a larger person. but I want to enjoy my whole day and not live on pain killers. When we did our year of having a Florida pass, I did the ECV and found it enjoyable. Yes, perks in getting in on some of the rides, but I enjoyed my trip much better.
No issues with people who need these using them… However, my issue (which I have witnessed on multiple occasions), is people who drive these irresponsibly / crash into other guests. An example of this was at Hollywood Studios, where a woman had let a small child sit on her knee and drive/steer the ECV down the main road to where the Star Wars stage was. The child lost control and slammed into the back of a poor woman (at speed) who was stood watching the stage and just didn’t see it coming, she hobbled off, crying, clearly in a lot of pain and we just turned to each other and said “wow, that’s her holiday ruined as she isn’t gonna be able to walk very far like that”. Zero consequences for the irresponsible adult on the ECV as no cast members around. I completely understand the need to use these, but I think that wheelchairs are a much safer option if possible, as I constantly see ECV abuse with multiple riders, bad driving etc. Like, every holiday…without fail, not just one offs. I genuinely live in fear at Disney of ECV drivers slamming into us and am on constant ECV watch whenever we are stood.. seriously. I’ve seen it too many times not to worry 😬
I was using one for just one day and someone got mad (we were next to each other) and I bumped into her I don’t have eyes on the side of my head and she was looking at her phone I wish Disney would stop having people be dependent on their phones
I can't disagree with you. . . . there are always going to be irresponsible people in the parks causing problems for other guests and ECV users will fall into that category from time to time. . . as does strollers. . . . as do hot headed guests looking to throw hands. The best we can do is be aware of our surroundings and hope for the best. 😅 For the most part, it's honestly not THAT big of a deal if you give people space and steer clear of those who seem like they might fall into the category of "irresponsible". As far as using a wheelchair rather than an ECV, while I can totally understand that this might seem like a great plan from the outside looking in, one thing that people often don't taken into consideration is the impact a wheelchair versus ECV has on the entire family/traveling party. Rental wheelchairs [whether we're talking the ones at Disney or the ones you'd get from a 3rd party company] aren't like the wheelchairs those who need them daily use and require a second person to push them along; especially in certain conditions that you'll find at WDW. It's VERY strenuous and not sustainable for the duration of a vacation. . . which is why most people [including myself] recommend going with an ECV. Not to mention, they're often just as dangerous to other guests. . . maybe even more so, because there isn't any assisted breaking when on inclines and I'll tell you from experience. . . it hurts just as bad as getting cranked by an ECV. 😄
If you need an ECV you need an ECV. Some people look like they bulldoze you with them because they aren't driving the same model on a regular basis. Remember when you first rode a bike? Others, yes, are more malicious. One person in an ECV at a nearby Walmart looked as if they wanted to bulldoze me out of the aisle. Then again I don't stigmatize cars based on a few maniacs on the road. In some areas of WDW a designated path may be needed specific for ECV's (or designated for both ambulatory/ECV patrons) I feel the same way about campuses where the kiddies use skateboards, rolly boards, and scooters. With the youngsters I've had visions of a gasoline pavement striper going putt, putt, putt and signage showing up.
Your point about the benches is 100% it. Problem is people cant take breathers so they over exert themselves and get heat exhaustion or forced to get ECVs. Since they never use ECVs they are more likely to not be great drivers. Solve the problems that lead to ecv's being a problem - need more shade to make paths less hot, need more benches so people can take a rest, increase indoor space so people can get out of the sun, widen paths so ECVs have room to navigate, things like the railroad that can move you around the park are very helpful. We do a real good job of blaming a person who just wanted to see their grandkids have fun versus the 188B company.
This! I want to have a whole discussion about this very comment alone! It's amazing though, isn't it!? Anyway, more on this to come in a future discussion. . . until then THANK YOU for taking the time to say this! 😄
My wife has had 3 back surgeries (all on the same spot) and a knee surgery on each knee. Everyday an ecv is not or ever needed. But going to disneyworld?! You bet your sweet bippy that we will be renting an ecv for her. Walking in your daily life and for work is vastly different then the walking and crowds at disney
I have vertigo that can happen at anytime especially in stressful situations. I can fall and have fallen. I am renting an ecv my upcoming trip. Really don’t want any broken bones on vacation! Thanks for this video.
Yeah. . . injuries on vacation are no fun! Just ask Russ! There's no reason to put yourself in a situation like that when there are tools available that can help you have a better and safer experience. We hope that you have a wonderful trip!
My aunt uses a portable walker at home and we went together in the Sept 2019 🔥🔥. I asked her to please get an ECV. She refused. She didn’t want it. Didn’t need it. Well, she did need it! We ended up having to get her a wheelchair. But she didn’t think it was a big deal to use the wheelchair vs the ECV. Well, it was, it was a nightmare. She also outweighs everyone in my family, so it made it harder still. I also have a back injury. My then 12 & 11 year olds had to help me push when my husband could not or we had to park it and wait and couldn’t go anywhere while the big ones and husband rode. We also had a stroller with a turning 1 year old, a 4 year old to attend to and had to figure out how to navigate It all. It was awful. I wish she’d have listened and gotten the ECV. The trip was sullied and I was in pain and we were all stressed out and trying not to show it to not make her feel bad. She has asked about going back with us again after that, and I don’t know that I would be able to go back with her unless she committed to the ECV and rented it beforehand. Honestly, it was too much.
I have used an ECV on my past couple of trips. On one trip, I had just had hip replacement surgery. This past time, I just knew that I wasn't going to be able to walk that much bc I had taken a hard fall from a ladder a few months ago that I'm still having some issues with. For the most part, the only way that me being on an ECV would impact someone else is the time it takes for me to get loaded onto the bus. I don't drive the ECV into lines. I park it in stroller parking and get in line with everyone else. I just can't walk that much. To your point, I don't use an ECV in the "real world" but Disney is a whole different animal. I definitely feel the negative stares, especially when getting on the bus. I don't let it get to me "too" much but do find myself feeling the urge to explain to people why I'm using it. The bottom line is, you pay A LOT to be there. If an ECV makes your trip easier or more enjoyable, I'm not sure it should be a concern to others. Now......I could write pages and pages about how terrible my experience was with the one company who can drop off and deliver to the resorts on this recent trip. To be brief, I was in the park 4 days and the equipment delivered was in poor condition. I have used them multiple times for myself or my mother with no issues but this time they had to bring me a total of three different ECVs because they wouldn't hold charge and I ended up pushing the ECV twice in the parks or having to find an outlet to charge it for most of my time in the parks. Again......a whole different discussion. If you need an ECV, get it. Right now, I can't do all of that walking and can't go to Disney without it. I like to go to Disney. If others are frustrated by that, then they should focus on their own trip.
I misread comment earlier about having ECV wait at back of line. I can certainly see your point. I wish Disney had busses for just the scooters. The busses they have now the scooters need to go first.
I think Disney could invest in shade coverings for lines and misting areas for patrons to cool down, and additional seating around the park would help when we all invariably just need to sit for a minute and recover. I’m guessing this would trim the need for ECV usage by a small percentage, but like you said there’s all sorts of reasons people might need one. I will say though, that the last time we were in the parks a few months ago I saw more than one teen recklessly driving an ECV with a friend or family member on their laps, pulling up to a ride and bouncing off of the ECV as though nothing was physically wrong; that can be difficult to not judge, even though there could be a perfectly good reason for why the person is using the ECV they still should drive responsibly. It’s generally not an issue, though, and I’m glad they’re available for those who need them.
Hey! Nice to hear from you again! I agree. I think that this is definitely an area where Disney could improve in general, but it would also likely curb ECV use. . . even by just a small percentage. It would also make the parks all that much more enjoyable as well. . . which is always nice.
Thank you for this video! I use one each time I go. If not, I would have to stop a good bit and my whole family would have to wait around on me. I spent my only child's childhood years staying away from Disney because I knew could not walk it all day and was too embarrassed to need one. I missed out on the magic of seeing my son as a little kid b/c of my embarrassment and the perceived stigma. I use one now and do not care at all. Do I still get looks and eye rolls? Yes. I don't care though. That's their issue. thank you again!!
One of the ECV users was letting their kid drive and ran over my dad's ankle back in May. The only reason my dad got away uninjured was he was wearing his steel toe hiking boots that he usually wears on vacation. Unfortunately bad users like that give good users a bad name.
Sorry to hear that happened, but glad to hear it didn't cause any injuries. Yeah. . . we've had a few close calls ourselves both from ECVs and strollers. There are always going to be irresponsible people out there unfortunately.
ecv's usually seem to be piloted by older adults, who are not racing from place to place. folks who are on them are generally courteous and patient with the folks who don't notice them, or cut in front of them, in crowds. i would encourage anyone who does not or cannot walk 10 miles in a day to take one to the parks. i pick 10 miles, because that's a pretty typical moderate day for us. the same thing goes for strollers - parents of kids even up to age 8 should probably bring a stroller, for the same reason. if your kid can't go 5, or 8, or 10 miles in a day, i don't blame them. they're closer to the pavement. the pavement is hot. they have shorter legs. get them in the shade, in a stroller, and give them a break. plus it makes it easier on you, as a parent, to haul all the stuff you need to take care of them. i have had no collisions with ecv's that i can remember, but i have had many with strollers. i don't blame most of those parents (a couple were in full-on bull-in-a-china-shop-make-way-i'm-coming-through mode, but those were the exception).
100%! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this, 'cause I absolutely agree! Also, FACTS! You know, in all my years going to WDW, I've only ever been hit by an ECV once. . . . and it was my own mother. 😳 Aside from that, I had a near miss once in the Haunted Mansion queue, which I missed 'cause I'm always super aware of my surroundings when ECVs are nearby. [Not as a result of being runned down by my mom. . . just for the recond. 😂] On the other hand, I get hit by stroller all the time. Sometimes unintentionally. . .other times because the parent is openly using the "battering ram" method of trying to get through the crowd. Overall, I think that people who specifically think that ECVs are a problem or a danger are just picking what they believe to be an easy target.
Honestly, that's the way to go! It's better to have it and not need it versus need it and not have it! Plus, you don't have to be stuck in it all day long. . . which I think is a major misconception. You can park it and walk around an area or trade off with a family member so you can walk for a bit. There are options, but those options are much more limited when you don't give yourself the option of an ECV ahead of time. 😄
I have had to use a scooter since a car accident 5 years ago. I hate maneuvering those things on a bus even though the bus drivers are very helpful. Also hating to make people wait. There just is no choice. You brought up some excellent points. Thank you! Also, scooters are not free and not comfortable .The waiting in lines and walking long distances are just not manageable for injured /senior people. Also, why would you separate a person from their group as suggested by an earlier comment? Not nice
Thank you so much for bringing up this topic. I was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and I am not that old. I was one of the stubborn ones because I never had to use any assistance before. I am one of those that don’t need the assistance on the day-to-day basis so I thought that my recent trip to Universal Studios I would be fine. Well I was not no one had to convince me to use a mobility scooter I found out for myself after walking a certain distance. My legs just got so tired and heavy that I could not work anymore. I had to sit down somewhere and you’re right. A lot of places that are available to sit are in direct sun which is the reason why the empty I was hesitant to use a mobility scooter for the same thing for the stigma plus never had one before so I had to get one in the park otherwise I will not be able to walk, but yes, I can only imagine what people were thinking when they saw me on the mobility scooter and then parked it and walked in the line to get a ride, but they don’t know my condition. I could walk the line to get in the ride because it wasn’t a constant walk or long distance but once I got out on the park, I needed it because it was a constant walk if I have any advice to give would be not to care of what anyone thinks do what’s best for you
I'm sorry that you had that experience, but you know. . . some of us need to come to these conclusions the hard way. [I speak from experience. 😅] You're so right though! People are going to judge, but they are going to judge anyway. . . . 🦆 'em! They have no idea what you're dealing with or the why of your situation. At the end of the day, you gotta do what's best for you! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. 😄
We are in the "grandparent" category and expect at some point to need an ECV at WDW. In fact, our last trip in Jan 2024, we found we couldn't go rope drop to close because legs and feet hurt too much. Having said that...I have two suggestions: limit the max speed of the ECV to a brisk walk. This should cut down on collisions and near misses. The second is to require the ECV and family to join the END of the line at bus transportation. It is extremely irritating (to me) to wait in a 120 foot line after park closing and have multiple ECVs and their families swoop into the front of the line just as the bus pulls up. My suggestion is that they can be first to load on the NEXT bus.
Hey KCAFO! Nice to hear from you again. 😄 I definitely understand the frustration that sometimes comes when ECVs and their families are prioritized over others like when trying to board the bus at the end of the night. Everyone just wants to get home and having to wait. . . it sucks. That said, it's important to keep in mind that often times ECV and wheelchair users find themselves waiting a LOT when trying to get around the parks. It's not uncommon for them to be unable to get on a bus 'cause it's already filled with guests, the "disability seats" are already occupied by non-disabled guests who won't be asked to move and/or there are other wheelchair/ECV users occupying those spaces. There have been times we've had to wait for 2 or 3 buses before we could get on with an ECV. . . . . which isn't something that happens all that often for guests who don't need a mobility device. So it's just something to keep in mind, especially when that frustration kicks in. I assure you, ECV and wheelchair users have been feeling that all day and probably their entire vacation.
@@2foolishmortals Thanks! I read your reply and ALL the other comments and replies to this video and it has changed my attitude! From this point forward I will have compassion and patience when interacting with EVC-using park guests! This was a great video topic--keep them coming!
I truly believe that park goers renting a ECV at a Disney park is the biggest problem of abuse for the DAS pass abuse issue. These people who don't normally use a ECV or wheelchair in their everyday lives and get a DAS pass has hurt and punished those who have a legitimate disability. Just because they rent a ECV or wheelchair at a park they feel that they are privileged and deserve a DAS pass with a fake disability in an attempt to skip the long lines. I also believe that ECV use is being abused at the Disney parks.
Then you must not be familiar with how the DAS system works. ECV use does not qualify a person for DAS nor does any other mobility issue [and I am referring to the current policy, not the change coming later this month that specifically call out developmental disabilities]. There are also plenty of people with legitimate disabilities and/or needs that require an ECV at a place like Disney, but wouldn't need it day to day. I have already explained this at length.
No. Disney has said for years that people who need to be able to sit in long lines should rent a wheelchair or ECV and do not qualify for DAS. People using wheelchairs and ECVs are not the ones causing the DAS problem.
@@2foolishmortals I am very familiar as I have a granddaughter who has Creabal Palsy and is confined to a wheelchair. We have always been able to get a disability pass for her until our last two visits including this year.We were told her disability DOESN'T qualify for a DOS pass with her disability . She has always been in her own wheelchair, NOT a rented one, while watching a man with a broken ankle in a park rented wheelchair get a DAS pass. So YES I am familiar with Disney's disability pass system and have witnessed its abuse with people who DON'T have a legitimate disability. Park goers also use park rented ECV's and wheelchairs and claim a fake disability to get a DAS pass.
@oscarthegrouch8823 I'm sorry to hear you ran into challenges with DAS, however it's quite presumptuous to assume someone is faking a disability without knowing their medical history. As I'm sure you're aware, not all disabilities look the same. There are lots of people with disabilities that prevent them from waiting in a traditional queue [which is the purpose of DAS as stated by Disney] that are not confined to wheelchairs. Some even injure themselves, some on vacation, and need to rent a wheelchair to get around. . . . just because someone doesn't meet your standards of "disabled" doesn't mean it's automatically abuse.
@@2foolishmortals I understand what you are saying with not all disabilities are the same and visible and not everyone is in a wheelchair. I also feel this disability has been and will always be abused and an issue. People will always find away around the rules to get a DAS pass. This issue of what is and isn't a disability will never go away.
I dunno man… those people on ECVs are a hindrance to a lot of people. They’re big machines and the people who drive them don’t typically seem to know what they’re doing. It sucks that Disney isn’t easier to get around. It’d be nice if there were separate entrances to all rides for people with disabilities. That’s next to impossible, I get it… just seen too much chaos caused by boomers who are running little kids over.
Are there people who have never used one, sure, but even with experience, Scooters don't stop on a dime. A lot of the 'hinderence' is because people walking don't look down, so they don't see the people in scooters, or they stop in the middle of the walk way, and the scooters are forced to pull up short. I've walked Disney, so try navigating a scooter in 10s of thousands of people and see how you fare, before discussing how much they inconvenience you as someone who doesn't need to use one.
I used a ECV for half a day in HS and they are hard to get used to The worst is I am sensitive to sound and when they back up they make a hideous noise
@@annlavine3576 I always recommend people go to the grocery store and practice once or twice before going. It's no different than telling someone to start walking before they go. As far as the reverse noise...that is an annoying sound, for sure. I think that Disney scooter have that, but neither the ones I have rented for the week from Scooterbug or Gold Mobility, made that sound automatically. They had a horn (same sound though) that you could use if necessary.
ECVs are no more of a hinderance than strollers, grown adults walking full clip while looking down at their phones, families stopped in the middle of crowded walkways or groups walking 4 abreast. . . . in other words. . . . everyone else in one of the world's most visited theme parks. That said, you're not wrong. There are a lot of people who havent compltely familiarized themselves with the ECV they are renting. Maybe it's the beginning of their trip or whatnot. . . . give 'em some space! As someone who both visits the parks multiple times per week AND has experince using an ECV in the parks, I can tell you with certainty that 99% of the issues people think ECVs are causing can be resolved by those very people being aware of their surroundings and giving ECVs some space.
![Rolling Through Disney | Answering Your Mobility Scooter [ECV] Related Questions](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/lmjMHl6TeLk/mqdefault.jpg)
Amen! Wish everyone that goes to Disney would watch this!
Thank You ! I ordered a ECV , going for 10 days with my daughter …
I needed to hear from someone who wasn’t my Daughter or Husband
Perfect Conversation.😊
I'm glad to hear that you got yourself an ECV for your visit. It's good to know that it took a third party to share the info. . . I'm sure you're not the only person out there who needs an outside opinion to help make the decision. We hope you have an AMAZING trip!
Thank You ! I promise to to honk the horn if i see you 😊 Maybe at Russ
@@julie-l3p We will keep an ear out!
We are heading down to Disney World this Sunday. I had a Hip Replacement almost 3 weeks ago. My Doc suggested I don’t not over do it. So walking several miles a day is not recommended at this time. So my wife rented a ECV. Obviously I will not be able to ride certain rides. Disney here I come,so Look out. Lol
I used to live in a city and walked everywhere. Going on a vacation, I'd walk a fairly long distance before thinking about a taxi. Now I've got a bum hip and knee but power through on the daily. We went to Disneyworld and my wife asked me if i wanted a scooter. I scoffed and she got one anyway. It was invaluable. One for me, and because my wife let her feet get wet in socks on a rainy day that just made a mess of her feet. We traded off. Pushing our 5yo in a stroller was enough support for me to get through the very very very long days.
Amazing video!! Thank you.. Thank you.. Thank you. 🌷🌷
I wish I could give your video 10 thumbs up. I have a bad hip, and I realized several years ago that I'd need an ECV to enjoy Disney World. I occasionally need a cane in my daily life when the pain flares. When it flares, the pain is intense, and I have to stop walking. The availability of ECVs make it possible to continue visiting Disney World and truly enjoying the experience.
I was diagnosed two weeks ago with a foot issue called Haglund's Deformity. I've had it all my life, it turns out, and it explains the everyday foot/ankle pain I've been in for probably 10 years. Back in January we did 4 days in WDW, I was SHAMBLING by day 2. If I'd seen this video before that trip, I'd have gotten an ECV with zero shame, and had a much more magical time. So thanks for this. Next time, if I need a tool, I'll get the tool.
A big part of the problem with ECVs is all the people on two feet around us who have no idea how to safely share a walkway. ECVs DO NOT HAVE BRAKES. You squeeze the right handle to go forward and the left handle to go back. If you want to stop, you let go of the handle and hope it stops rolling in time. There's absolutely nothing we can do if you walk directly into our path or stop suddenly in front of us. I haven't used an ECV at Disney (yet), but I have used them at conventions. I've been walked into, leaned on like I'm furniture, bashed in the head by people swinging purses onto their shoulders, and one time someone nailed me with a tote bag full of books. Yes, you do occasionally come across reckless ECV users. But there are a lot more people walking around paying absolutely no attention to where they're going and turning the world into a stressful obstacle course for those of us on ECVs.
Sadly,I think a lot of people do things like this to people on ECVs just to be mean.
Big topic here. I’m finishing up a 8 day trip to Disney World and think I should have rented one. We routinely go and easily do 15k-20k step days at Disney. It’s been a slow rough trip. Not like our past trips and I’ve slowed down our small group. I’m a month removed from arthroscopic knee surgery and thought I was recovered enough to go at is slowly. Big mistake, I’ve been in constant pain and limping as the week went on. I wasn’t open to getting one after seeing my father years ago run into people too often after being very careful, just not used to operating one. Oh well, big topic, on towards our final two days. I’m a lot more compassionate towards others after this week.
All that walking and standing my back would go out. yes I'm short and a larger person. but I want to enjoy my whole day and not live on pain killers. When we did our year of having a Florida pass, I did the ECV and found it enjoyable. Yes, perks in getting in on some of the rides, but I enjoyed my trip much better.
No issues with people who need these using them… However, my issue (which I have witnessed on multiple occasions), is people who drive these irresponsibly / crash into other guests.
An example of this was at Hollywood Studios, where a woman had let a small child sit on her knee and drive/steer the ECV down the main road to where the Star Wars stage was. The child lost control and slammed into the back of a poor woman (at speed) who was stood watching the stage and just didn’t see it coming, she hobbled off, crying, clearly in a lot of pain and we just turned to each other and said “wow, that’s her holiday ruined as she isn’t gonna be able to walk very far like that”.
Zero consequences for the irresponsible adult on the ECV as no cast members around.
I completely understand the need to use these, but I think that wheelchairs are a much safer option if possible, as I constantly see ECV abuse with multiple riders, bad driving etc. Like, every holiday…without fail, not just one offs.
I genuinely live in fear at Disney of ECV drivers slamming into us and am on constant ECV watch whenever we are stood.. seriously. I’ve seen it too many times not to worry 😬
I was using one for just one day and someone got mad (we were next to each other) and I bumped into her
I don’t have eyes on the side of my head and she was looking at her phone
I wish Disney would stop having people be dependent on their phones
I can't disagree with you. . . . there are always going to be irresponsible people in the parks causing problems for other guests and ECV users will fall into that category from time to time. . . as does strollers. . . . as do hot headed guests looking to throw hands. The best we can do is be aware of our surroundings and hope for the best. 😅 For the most part, it's honestly not THAT big of a deal if you give people space and steer clear of those who seem like they might fall into the category of "irresponsible".
As far as using a wheelchair rather than an ECV, while I can totally understand that this might seem like a great plan from the outside looking in, one thing that people often don't taken into consideration is the impact a wheelchair versus ECV has on the entire family/traveling party. Rental wheelchairs [whether we're talking the ones at Disney or the ones you'd get from a 3rd party company] aren't like the wheelchairs those who need them daily use and require a second person to push them along; especially in certain conditions that you'll find at WDW. It's VERY strenuous and not sustainable for the duration of a vacation. . . which is why most people [including myself] recommend going with an ECV. Not to mention, they're often just as dangerous to other guests. . . maybe even more so, because there isn't any assisted breaking when on inclines and I'll tell you from experience. . . it hurts just as bad as getting cranked by an ECV. 😄
If you need an ECV you need an ECV. Some people look like they bulldoze you with them because they aren't driving the same model on a regular basis. Remember when you first rode a bike? Others, yes, are more malicious. One person in an ECV at a nearby Walmart looked as if they wanted to bulldoze me out of the aisle. Then again I don't stigmatize cars based on a few maniacs on the road. In some areas of WDW a designated path may be needed specific for ECV's (or designated for both ambulatory/ECV patrons) I feel the same way about campuses where the kiddies use skateboards, rolly boards, and scooters. With the youngsters I've had visions of a gasoline pavement striper going putt, putt, putt and signage showing up.
Your point about the benches is 100% it. Problem is people cant take breathers so they over exert themselves and get heat exhaustion or forced to get ECVs. Since they never use ECVs they are more likely to not be great drivers. Solve the problems that lead to ecv's being a problem - need more shade to make paths less hot, need more benches so people can take a rest, increase indoor space so people can get out of the sun, widen paths so ECVs have room to navigate, things like the railroad that can move you around the park are very helpful. We do a real good job of blaming a person who just wanted to see their grandkids have fun versus the 188B company.
This! I want to have a whole discussion about this very comment alone! It's amazing though, isn't it!? Anyway, more on this to come in a future discussion. . . until then THANK YOU for taking the time to say this! 😄
My wife has had 3 back surgeries (all on the same spot) and a knee surgery on each knee. Everyday an ecv is not or ever needed. But going to disneyworld?! You bet your sweet bippy that we will be renting an ecv for her. Walking in your daily life and for work is vastly different then the walking and crowds at disney
I have vertigo that can happen at anytime especially in stressful situations. I can fall and have fallen. I am renting an ecv my upcoming trip. Really don’t want any broken bones on vacation! Thanks for this video.
Yeah. . . injuries on vacation are no fun! Just ask Russ! There's no reason to put yourself in a situation like that when there are tools available that can help you have a better and safer experience. We hope that you have a wonderful trip!
My aunt uses a portable walker at home and we went together in the Sept 2019 🔥🔥. I asked her to please get an ECV. She refused. She didn’t want it. Didn’t need it. Well, she did need it! We ended up having to get her a wheelchair. But she didn’t think it was a big deal to use the wheelchair vs the ECV. Well, it was, it was a nightmare. She also outweighs everyone in my family, so it made it harder still. I also have a back injury. My then 12 & 11 year olds had to help me push when my husband could not or we had to park it and wait and couldn’t go anywhere while the big ones and husband rode. We also had a stroller with a turning 1 year old, a 4 year old to attend to and had to figure out how to navigate It all. It was awful. I wish she’d have listened and gotten the ECV. The trip was sullied and I was in pain and we were all stressed out and trying not to show it to not make her feel bad. She has asked about going back with us again after that, and I don’t know that I would be able to go back with her unless she committed to the ECV and rented it beforehand. Honestly, it was too much.
I am SO SORRY to hear that you had this experience. I've been there and it's a rough time no matter how you look at it! 😔
I have used an ECV on my past couple of trips. On one trip, I had just had hip replacement surgery. This past time, I just knew that I wasn't going to be able to walk that much bc I had taken a hard fall from a ladder a few months ago that I'm still having some issues with. For the most part, the only way that me being on an ECV would impact someone else is the time it takes for me to get loaded onto the bus. I don't drive the ECV into lines. I park it in stroller parking and get in line with everyone else. I just can't walk that much. To your point, I don't use an ECV in the "real world" but Disney is a whole different animal. I definitely feel the negative stares, especially when getting on the bus. I don't let it get to me "too" much but do find myself feeling the urge to explain to people why I'm using it. The bottom line is, you pay A LOT to be there. If an ECV makes your trip easier or more enjoyable, I'm not sure it should be a concern to others. Now......I could write pages and pages about how terrible my experience was with the one company who can drop off and deliver to the resorts on this recent trip. To be brief, I was in the park 4 days and the equipment delivered was in poor condition. I have used them multiple times for myself or my mother with no issues but this time they had to bring me a total of three different ECVs because they wouldn't hold charge and I ended up pushing the ECV twice in the parks or having to find an outlet to charge it for most of my time in the parks. Again......a whole different discussion. If you need an ECV, get it. Right now, I can't do all of that walking and can't go to Disney without it. I like to go to Disney. If others are frustrated by that, then they should focus on their own trip.
I misread comment earlier about having ECV wait at back of line. I can certainly see your point. I wish Disney had busses for just the scooters. The busses they have now the scooters need to go first.
I think Disney could invest in shade coverings for lines and misting areas for patrons to cool down, and additional seating around the park would help when we all invariably just need to sit for a minute and recover. I’m guessing this would trim the need for ECV usage by a small percentage, but like you said there’s all sorts of reasons people might need one. I will say though, that the last time we were in the parks a few months ago I saw more than one teen recklessly driving an ECV with a friend or family member on their laps, pulling up to a ride and bouncing off of the ECV as though nothing was physically wrong; that can be difficult to not judge, even though there could be a perfectly good reason for why the person is using the ECV they still should drive responsibly. It’s generally not an issue, though, and I’m glad they’re available for those who need them.
Hey! Nice to hear from you again! I agree. I think that this is definitely an area where Disney could improve in general, but it would also likely curb ECV use. . . even by just a small percentage. It would also make the parks all that much more enjoyable as well. . . which is always nice.
Thank you for this video! I use one each time I go. If not, I would have to stop a good bit and my whole family would have to wait around on me. I spent my only child's childhood years staying away from Disney because I knew could not walk it all day and was too embarrassed to need one. I missed out on the magic of seeing my son as a little kid b/c of my embarrassment and the perceived stigma. I use one now and do not care at all. Do I still get looks and eye rolls? Yes. I don't care though. That's their issue. thank you again!!
You are so right.
One of the ECV users was letting their kid drive and ran over my dad's ankle back in May.
The only reason my dad got away uninjured was he was wearing his steel toe hiking boots that he usually wears on vacation.
Unfortunately bad users like that give good users a bad name.
Sorry to hear that happened, but glad to hear it didn't cause any injuries. Yeah. . . we've had a few close calls ourselves both from ECVs and strollers. There are always going to be irresponsible people out there unfortunately.
ecv's usually seem to be piloted by older adults, who are not racing from place to place. folks who are on them are generally courteous and patient with the folks who don't notice them, or cut in front of them, in crowds.
i would encourage anyone who does not or cannot walk 10 miles in a day to take one to the parks. i pick 10 miles, because that's a pretty typical moderate day for us.
the same thing goes for strollers - parents of kids even up to age 8 should probably bring a stroller, for the same reason. if your kid can't go 5, or 8, or 10 miles in a day, i don't blame them. they're closer to the pavement. the pavement is hot. they have shorter legs. get them in the shade, in a stroller, and give them a break. plus it makes it easier on you, as a parent, to haul all the stuff you need to take care of them.
i have had no collisions with ecv's that i can remember, but i have had many with strollers. i don't blame most of those parents (a couple were in full-on bull-in-a-china-shop-make-way-i'm-coming-through mode, but those were the exception).
100%! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this, 'cause I absolutely agree!
Also, FACTS! You know, in all my years going to WDW, I've only ever been hit by an ECV once. . . . and it was my own mother. 😳 Aside from that, I had a near miss once in the Haunted Mansion queue, which I missed 'cause I'm always super aware of my surroundings when ECVs are nearby. [Not as a result of being runned down by my mom. . . just for the recond. 😂] On the other hand, I get hit by stroller all the time. Sometimes unintentionally. . .other times because the parent is openly using the "battering ram" method of trying to get through the crowd. Overall, I think that people who specifically think that ECVs are a problem or a danger are just picking what they believe to be an easy target.
If I thought I was even on the edge of needing one, I wouldn't hesitate for one second.
Honestly, that's the way to go! It's better to have it and not need it versus need it and not have it! Plus, you don't have to be stuck in it all day long. . . which I think is a major misconception. You can park it and walk around an area or trade off with a family member so you can walk for a bit. There are options, but those options are much more limited when you don't give yourself the option of an ECV ahead of time. 😄
I have had to use a scooter since a car accident 5 years ago. I hate maneuvering those things on a bus even though the bus drivers are very helpful. Also hating to make people wait. There just is no choice. You brought up some excellent points. Thank you! Also, scooters are not free and not comfortable .The waiting in lines and walking long distances are just not manageable for injured /senior people. Also, why would you separate a person from their group as suggested by an earlier comment? Not nice
Thank you so much for bringing up this topic. I was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and I am not that old. I was one of the stubborn ones because I never had to use any assistance before. I am one of those that don’t need the assistance on the day-to-day basis so I thought that my recent trip to Universal Studios I would be fine. Well I was not no one had to convince me to use a mobility scooter I found out for myself after walking a certain distance. My legs just got so tired and heavy that I could not work anymore. I had to sit down somewhere and you’re right. A lot of places that are available to sit are in direct sun which is the reason why the empty I was hesitant to use a mobility scooter for the same thing for the stigma plus never had one before so I had to get one in the park otherwise I will not be able to walk, but yes, I can only imagine what people were thinking when they saw me on the mobility scooter and then parked it and walked in the line to get a ride, but they don’t know my condition. I could walk the line to get in the ride because it wasn’t a constant walk or long distance but once I got out on the park, I needed it because it was a constant walk if I have any advice to give would be not to care of what anyone thinks do what’s best for you
I'm sorry that you had that experience, but you know. . . some of us need to come to these conclusions the hard way. [I speak from experience. 😅]
You're so right though! People are going to judge, but they are going to judge anyway. . . . 🦆 'em! They have no idea what you're dealing with or the why of your situation. At the end of the day, you gotta do what's best for you!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. 😄
Thank you
Hi! Can you please tell me where you but your sunglasses?! They're so cool!
THANKS! Most of my glasses are from Diff Eyeware, including this pair.
Not a ECV question, but what brand and color is your lipstick in this video?
Thanks
Sephora Watermelon Lip Balm 💋 😊
@@2foolishmortals My husband refers to you as “ the girl with the pretty eyes”😊 . I refer to you as “the girl with the great makeup “ 😊.
@@lisaclark9066 Aw! Thanks. 😊
I did ok for the first few days ( I took the red eye) by the 4th day it was difficult
What do you think about a knee scooter
The ECV sounds cumbersome
We are in the "grandparent" category and expect at some point to need an ECV at WDW. In fact, our last trip in Jan 2024, we found we couldn't go rope drop to close because legs and feet hurt too much. Having said that...I have two suggestions: limit the max speed of the ECV to a brisk walk. This should cut down on collisions and near misses. The second is to require the ECV and family to join the END of the line at bus transportation. It is extremely irritating (to me) to wait in a 120 foot line after park closing and have multiple ECVs and their families swoop into the front of the line just as the bus pulls up. My suggestion is that they can be first to load on the NEXT bus.
Hey KCAFO! Nice to hear from you again. 😄 I definitely understand the frustration that sometimes comes when ECVs and their families are prioritized over others like when trying to board the bus at the end of the night. Everyone just wants to get home and having to wait. . . it sucks. That said, it's important to keep in mind that often times ECV and wheelchair users find themselves waiting a LOT when trying to get around the parks. It's not uncommon for them to be unable to get on a bus 'cause it's already filled with guests, the "disability seats" are already occupied by non-disabled guests who won't be asked to move and/or there are other wheelchair/ECV users occupying those spaces. There have been times we've had to wait for 2 or 3 buses before we could get on with an ECV. . . . . which isn't something that happens all that often for guests who don't need a mobility device. So it's just something to keep in mind, especially when that frustration kicks in. I assure you, ECV and wheelchair users have been feeling that all day and probably their entire vacation.
@@2foolishmortals Thanks! I read your reply and ALL the other comments and replies to this video and it has changed my attitude! From this point forward I will have compassion and patience when interacting with EVC-using park guests! This was a great video topic--keep them coming!
I have seen too many teens just use them for play. It should be for need not a want.
I truly believe that park goers renting a ECV at a Disney park is the biggest problem of abuse for the DAS pass abuse issue. These people who don't normally use a ECV or wheelchair in their everyday lives and get a DAS pass has hurt and punished those who have a legitimate disability. Just because they rent a ECV or wheelchair at a park they feel that they are privileged and deserve a DAS pass with a fake disability in an attempt to skip the long lines. I also believe that ECV use is being abused at the Disney parks.
Then you must not be familiar with how the DAS system works. ECV use does not qualify a person for DAS nor does any other mobility issue [and I am referring to the current policy, not the change coming later this month that specifically call out developmental disabilities]. There are also plenty of people with legitimate disabilities and/or needs that require an ECV at a place like Disney, but wouldn't need it day to day. I have already explained this at length.
No. Disney has said for years that people who need to be able to sit in long lines should rent a wheelchair or ECV and do not qualify for DAS. People using wheelchairs and ECVs are not the ones causing the DAS problem.
@@2foolishmortals I am very familiar as I have a granddaughter who has Creabal Palsy and is confined to a wheelchair. We have always been able to get a disability pass for her until our last two visits including this year.We were told her disability DOESN'T qualify for a DOS pass with her disability . She has always been in her own wheelchair, NOT a rented one, while watching a man with a broken ankle in a park rented wheelchair get a DAS pass. So YES I am familiar with Disney's disability pass system and have witnessed its abuse with people who DON'T have a legitimate disability. Park goers also use park rented ECV's and wheelchairs and claim a fake disability to get a DAS pass.
@oscarthegrouch8823 I'm sorry to hear you ran into challenges with DAS, however it's quite presumptuous to assume someone is faking a disability without knowing their medical history. As I'm sure you're aware, not all disabilities look the same. There are lots of people with disabilities that prevent them from waiting in a traditional queue [which is the purpose of DAS as stated by Disney] that are not confined to wheelchairs. Some even injure themselves, some on vacation, and need to rent a wheelchair to get around. . . . just because someone doesn't meet your standards of "disabled" doesn't mean it's automatically abuse.
@@2foolishmortals I understand what you are saying with not all disabilities are the same and visible and not everyone is in a wheelchair. I also feel this disability has been and will always be abused and an issue. People will always find away around the rules to get a DAS pass. This issue of what is and isn't a disability will never go away.
I dunno man… those people on ECVs are a hindrance to a lot of people. They’re big machines and the people who drive them don’t typically seem to know what they’re doing. It sucks that Disney isn’t easier to get around. It’d be nice if there were separate entrances to all rides for people with disabilities. That’s next to impossible, I get it… just seen too much chaos caused by boomers who are running little kids over.
Are there people who have never used one, sure, but even with experience, Scooters don't stop on a dime. A lot of the 'hinderence' is because people walking don't look down, so they don't see the people in scooters, or they stop in the middle of the walk way, and the scooters are forced to pull up short.
I've walked Disney, so try navigating a scooter in 10s of thousands of people and see how you fare, before discussing how much they inconvenience you as someone who doesn't need to use one.
I used a ECV for half a day in HS and they are hard to get used to
The worst is I am sensitive to sound and when they back up they make a hideous noise
@@annlavine3576 I always recommend people go to the grocery store and practice once or twice before going. It's no different than telling someone to start walking before they go.
As far as the reverse noise...that is an annoying sound, for sure. I think that Disney scooter have that, but neither the ones I have rented for the week from Scooterbug or Gold Mobility, made that sound automatically. They had a horn (same sound though) that you could use if necessary.
ECVs are no more of a hinderance than strollers, grown adults walking full clip while looking down at their phones, families stopped in the middle of crowded walkways or groups walking 4 abreast. . . . in other words. . . . everyone else in one of the world's most visited theme parks. That said, you're not wrong. There are a lot of people who havent compltely familiarized themselves with the ECV they are renting. Maybe it's the beginning of their trip or whatnot. . . . give 'em some space! As someone who both visits the parks multiple times per week AND has experince using an ECV in the parks, I can tell you with certainty that 99% of the issues people think ECVs are causing can be resolved by those very people being aware of their surroundings and giving ECVs some space.