What to Do If Your Wheelchair Was Stolen

Finding that your wheelchair has been stolen can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Beyond the financial loss, a stolen mobility device can disrupt your independence and daily routines.

Knowing exactly what steps to take can help restore control during a difficult moment. This guide walks you through the actions to be taken immediately after the theft, what to expect during the replacement process, and practical ways to protect your wheelchair in the future.

File a Police Report

If you or your loved one becomes a victim of wheelchair theft, the first thing to do is file a police report. This official documentation is essential for insurance claims and provides a record of the incident should further action be needed.

Be sure to request a full copy of the report, as your insurance provider and mobility supplier will likely require it.

Please note:

When filing a police report for a stolen wheelchair, be sure the report is accurate, complete, and reflects your situation. Submitting a false or misleading report can delay your replacement request and may lead to legal consequences. Our goal is to ensure you receive the support you need as quickly and appropriately as possible.

Notify Your Insurance Provider

After filing a police report, contact your insurance provider to start your replacement claim. For Medicare beneficiaries, you might think you’re only eligible for a replacement after five years.

However, that rule does not apply to theft. In special circumstances, such as theft, a replacement may be covered before the five-year mark. Check with your insurance provider to understand what documentation is required and what your coverage includes.

Contact Your Mobility Equipment Supplier

Once your police report has been filed and your insurance claim submitted, reach out to a mobility supplier. Be sure to have your police report and insurance claim information ready, as this will expedite the replacement process.

What to Expect from Rehab Medical's Replacement Process

Our team of mobility specialists are more than happy to assist you with replacing your stolen wheelchair. Whether you received your original chair from Rehab Medical or from another provider, we are available to assist. Here are a few things to note before getting started:

• Provide us with a full copy of your police report

• Send us your insurance claim details

• For chairs not purchased through us, we’ll need a copy of the original purchase paperwork

After we’ve received all your documents, our team of mobility specialists will begin the process to get you a replacement wheelchair. As a helpful tip, insurance typically requires a new face-to-face evaluation with your doctor. If you haven’t already scheduled this appointment, we recommend doing so as soon as possible.

Please Note:

Getting a replacement wheelchair is not an immediate process. The steps taken to get your original wheelchair will be the same steps taken to secure your replacement chair. Depending on your doctor and insurance's response time, the timeline for getting your replacement may vary. We strongly encourage you to seek an alternative mobility solution during the approval process to avoid potential disruptions in your daily life.

Helpful Tips to Prevent Your Wheelchair from Being Stolen

While not all thefts can be prevented, these steps can greatly reduce your risk:

Avoid Leaving Your Wheelchair Outside

Keep your wheelchair indoors. Doing so will reduce the risk of theft and will help prolong the life expectancy of your wheelchair.

Use a Heavy-Duty Bike Lock or Anti-Folding Bar

If you must leave your wheelchair outside or in a shared environment, secure it with a high-quality lock or an anti-folding bar. These devices make quick theft attempts significantly more difficult.

Consider Installing a GPS Tracker

For added peace of mind, consider attaching a discreet GPS tracker to your wheelchair. If your device is ever misplaced or stolen, GPS technology can help authorities or community members locate it quickly.

Never Leave Your Wheelchair Unattended

If your wheelchair stops working in a public or unsafe location, avoid abandoning it. In many areas, you can call a non-emergency number (such as 311, where available, or the police/fire department’s non-emergency line) for assistance. These services can often help safely move your equipment home. If the situation puts you in immediate danger or involves a medical emergency, call 911. Getting help can prevent injury and reduce the risk of theft by ensuring your equipment is not left unattended.

Label Your Wheelchair with Your Contact Information

Not every situation involves malicious intent. Clearly labeling your wheelchair with your name and phone number helps honest people return it if it’s accidentally moved or found abandoned. It also makes community-led searches more effective.  

Having your wheelchair stolen can feel overwhelming, but knowing the right steps to take can help you regain control and move toward a replacement as smoothly as possible. Filing a police report, alerting your insurance provider, and working closely with your mobility supplier are key to restoring your independence.

Your wheelchair is essential to your mobility, and by following this helpful guide, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of future thefts and protect the equipment that supports your independence every day.