HANDICAPPED (ACCESSIBLE) PARKING *

THE OBSTACLES

-Two cars are sometimes parked in one handicapped space. This does not allow room for wheelchair access.

- Cross-hatchings are the diagonal lines to the side of the space. When they are blocked, those in wheelchairs cannot get in and out of their car.

-Delivery trucks often park in the spaces to unload items.

- People without permits sometimes park in the spaces.

- Some people are using handicapped parking permits for themselves, that have been issued to another member of their family. The permit is only to be used when the person with the disability is in the car and in need of the space. Some are even using permits of deceased relatives. In that case, the handicapped parking permit should be returned.

-Handicapped parking spaces are often not plowed well. I believe this is because they are usually in corners, where plows tend to pile snow. Some lot owners say the handicapped parking signs impede their plowing efforts. This is a valid concern, yet alternate methods of clearing the spaces could be used. You may live in an area where you do not get snow, but get dust storms. The spaces may be covered by sand and not adequately cleared.

-Some handicapped spaces lack the handicapped parking signs that are above the ground. Some merely have handicapped symbol printed on the pavement. When it snows, and the spaces are covered, one cannot distinguish them as handicapped spaces.

-Shopping carts often block the spaces.

-Wheelchair ramps are often not plowed.

-Some people had a valid disabiltiy, but recovered, and still use the permit until it expires. If you no longer have the walking impairment, which initially entitled you to the permit, you should return the permit.

-In some states and towns, lot owners have designated special parking places for seniors, expectant mothers, and customers with infants. I noticed one lot, in which a handicapped space had been taken away for this instead. It does not seem fair, to me, that these customers are so easily granted a space, whereas those with legal walking impairments must apply for, and often pay for, their permit.

-Some with invisible impairments are yelled at by others who do not believe they have a disability because they "look" well. Although concern for abuse is appreciated, it does not justify making quick assumptions and angry remarks. There are many with "invisible" illnesses such as those with heart problems, multiple sclerosis, and other diseases. It is hard enough for people to suffer with invisible limitations, let alone be harassed for using a space.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

-Write to lot owners about your concerns if you notice a lot that is not up to par on their handicapped parking spaces. I encourage you to first check with your state's Attorney General's office to find out the specific law in your state for handicapped parking. They may be able to send you written information on the laws. Also, contact your Town Hall's, Tax Assessor's office, to see if they will give you the name and address of the lot owner. When writing to lot owners, be sure to be tactful. Some owners may actually live out of state and may not be familiar with the local laws.

-Encourage your police department to enforce handicapped parking laws.

-Encourage your educational system to teach children about the obstacles. This may help instill positive attitudes that may be carried into adulthood.

-Spread awareness of the obstacles. You can use various media such as newspapers, editorials, magazine articles, t.v., radio, and posting flyers. If posting flyers, be sure to ask the facility if it is o.k. to do so. I also suggest not putting flyers on cars as that can be irritating and many drivers will just toss them. You could form a support group to provide a group effor in spreading awareness. You could ask those who teach driver education courses to include this topic in their classes.

-Write to your state legislators for strict enforcement of the handicapped parking laws, and for more effective laws, if necessary.

CONCLUSION

I hope this site helps spread awareness of the many obstacles to handicapped parking. I also hope it has encouraged you, to do what you can, to help prevent the obstacles. You may contact me, (Patty Cyr), at bhchcactus@aol.com

*Accessible parking is the preferred term today.

My Favorite Links

My Favorite Products

Download AOL Instant Messenger