People without disabled parking permits sometimes park in disabled parking spaces. But parking in a designated disabled parking space is illegal for people who do not hold a verified permit. Sometimes people park illegally in a disabled parking space in error, but sometimes it is a deliberate flouting of the law.
Illegal parking in disabled spaces by people who are not permit-holders is a huge inconvenience for disabled drivers all across the nation. People who illegally park in disabled spaces are causing disabled drivers a lot of stress and making their lives more difficult.
Each state has its own specific laws that deal with illegal parking in disabled spaces. States adopt their own rules, regulations, and methods of enforcement and punishment, but there are many consistencies that apply across all states.
In this article, we will answer the most commonly asked questions about illegal parking in disabled parking spaces, including: what is the penalty for parking illegally in a space designated for persons with disabilities? What is the fine for parking in a disabled parking space? Can you get a ticket for parking in a handicap space on private property?
How Can You Recognize A Disabled Parking Bay?
A disabled parking bay will be easy to recognize. It will have a sign next to it displaying the international symbol of access – an image of a person in a wheelchair – or it will have the symbol painted on the ground.
Is It Illegal To Park In A Disabled Parking Bay?
For any driver who does not possess a disabled parking permit, yes, it is illegal to park in a disabled parking bay. It is illegal for a non-permit holder to park in a disabled space for any length of time and at any time of day or night.
Who Is Allowed To Park In A Disabled Parking Bay?
Any vehicle that is transporting a disabled parking permit holder may park legally in a designated disabled parking bay. This includes vehicles being driven by a permit-holder, as well as vehicles being driven by another person while a permit-holder is a passenger.
This can be any type of vehicle: a motorcycle, car, van, or truck. Larger vehicles, such as buses that are used by organizations to transport multiple people with disabilities, can also park in disabled bays.
Basically, if a vehicle has a disabled permit holder traveling in it, it may park in a disabled parking space for any duration of time necessary.
How To Make Sure You’re Not Wrongly Penalized For Parking In A Disabled Space
When you are traveling in a vehicle and using your disabled parking permit, it is important to display the permit clearly. This will ensure that you aren’t wrongly penalized for parking in a disabled space.
When your vehicle is in motion, the permit must be safely stowed – for example, in the glove compartment. When the vehicle is parked, the permit should be clearly displayed, preferably by hanging it from the rearview mirror. If, for whatever reason, it is not possible to hang the permit from the rearview mirror, it should be clearly displayed on the dashboard, inside the front windshield.
What Is The Penalty For Parking Illegally In A Disabled Parking Bay?
The exact penalty for illegal use of disabled parking varies state by state. In all states, a person parking illegally in a disabled space can be fined. Many jurisdictions will tow the illegally parked vehicle away at the driver’s expense.
In some states, parking in a disabled parking spot without a handicap placard is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail. However, it is very rare that a person would actually be jailed – this would only happen to repeat offenders who refuse to pay their fine.
What Is The Fine For Parking In A Disabled Parking Space?
The fine for parking in a disabled parking space illegally is between $20 and $250. A $100 fine is quite common.
Can You Get A Ticket For Parking In A Handicap Space On Private Property?
Yes, you can get a ticket for parking in a disabled space on private property. Malls and airports are examples of private property that contain disabled spaces. You can be ticketed for parking illegally in these spaces.
Do The Penalties Differ For Parking In A Private Disabled Parking Space?
Penalties tend to be the same whether an infraction has taken place on public or private property.
How Do You Get A Disabled Parking Permit?
The best way to get a disabled parking permit is to apply through DisabledParking.com. The team will arrange a consultation with a local medical professional, who will decide whether or not you qualify for a disabled parking permit. The entire process is quick and easy and can be done from the comfort of your own home.