Disabled Parking Permits - Use and Abuse

Disabled parking permits and the spots reserved for people who need them are jeopardized and misused every day. Many people seem to be getting these permits without really meeting the requirements. They are not meant for "ease" but to allow people who would otherwise not people to get into a facility to do so.

The applications vary from state to state, but many of the requirements are similar. The information is to be filled out by the applicant as well as a doctor or other authorized personal. Part of the problem may be doctors and others authorized to sign these applications doing so for people who are not qualified. This may be due to truly understanding the persons situation and/or the requirements.

There is also a problem of people parking in a disabled parking spot simply because "they are only running in quickly" or "nobody uses/needs this spot." This is not the case and people who truly need them are often left not being able to get a spot and therefore unable to access the facility.

If you see someone who seems to be abusing a parking space and/or permit notify the facility. They should have the number of the proper authorities and should do so.

Remember, these spots are there so that people with a disability that qualifies them for the permit can access the facility and would be unable to do so otherwise. If you really do not need the permit and are able to gain access without one consider yourself lucky. Those who legitimatly need one would most likely tell you that they would rather not have to have one.