Having a disability often means having to make adjustments to your daily life to ensure you’re functioning at your best. Fortunately, there are several places in the U.S. that will accommodate you, especially when it comes to parking. If you live in the state of Kentucky, there are specific rules you should follow to receive approval for a handicap or disabled parking permit. Here’s what you need to know.
Do You Qualify?
You’ll need to speak with your doctor about getting a handicap placard in Kentucky. This is because your physician has to certify that you have an impairment that affects your mobility. The doctor will also verify that you meet all necessary requirements. You can receive a handicap placard in Kentucky if you:
- Have to stop and rest after walking for 200 feet or less
- Have restricted mobility because of lung disease
- Your mobility is limited because you have arthritis
- You have a neurological condition that affects mobility
- You have an orthopedic condition that affects mobility
- You are unable to use one or both legs or have lost one or both legs
- You are unable to use one or both arms or have lost one or both arms
- You are legally blind
Kentucky organizations and agencies that transport handicapped persons or patients can also apply to receive a handicap parking placard for each of the vehicles that belong to the organization.
The Application Process
First, you should fill out an Application for Disabled Person’s Special Parking Permit, also known as Form TC 96-204. You can get this form by going to the County Clerk’s office nearest you or printing out the document online.
Remember that you and your doctor have to complete and sign the application. When you’ve completed the document, you can return it to the County Clerk Office.
If you’re applying for disability license plates, you’ll have to pay a $21 fee. This is the initial fee, and you’ll also have to pay an annual renewal fee of $21 as well. If you have regular plates on your car, you’ll have to return those plates to the Kentucky DMV before you can use your disability plates.
How Long Can You Use Your Plates and Placards?
The length of time that your placards and plates are valid will depend on whether your disability is temporary or permanent.
For permanent disability, the validity period for your permits is two years. For temporary disabilities, you can use plates or placards for up to three months. In some cases, your physician may indicate that that your permit should be valid for shorter than the three-month period.
You’ll jut need to renew your handicap placards and plates by the July 31st expiration date listed on your permit or placard. Don’t forget to fill out the Application for Disabled Person’s Special Parking Permit. You can bring the form into the County Clerk’s office or mail it by the expiration date.
Licensed Plates for Disabled Veterans
You can receive Disabled Veteran Plates in Kentucky if you have a disability that is 50-99% related to your time in the Armed Forces. Your disability must be verified by the Veterans Administration. If you are the surviving husband or wife of a former disabled veteran, you can use the license plates if you meet the necessary requirements.
If you’re not sure that your disability is related to military service or you want to determine your eligibility, you can give the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs a all at 1-800-572-6245.
You’ll have to fill out the Application for Disabled Person’s Special Parking Permit and give all documentation from the VA or federal agency to the DMV. These documents will prove that you were honorably discharged from the military.
Once you have all the documents you need, turn your paperwork into the County Clerk’s Office. The fee for disabled veteran plates is $26.
Once you are able to benefit from Kentucky Disabled Veteran Plates, you’ll have to renew your license plates by the July 31st expiration date. You can also utilize Social Security benefits after you file your claim.
Reporting Handicap Parking Abuse In Kentucky
There are instances when you may see an able-bodied person getting out of a car that has a handicap plate or permit, even though that person doesn’t have a disability. If you see this, there’s a chance that the person shouldn’t be parking in a handicap space.
People who misuse disability parking spots are breaking Kentucky law. These individuals could receive a fine between $20 and $200. Vehicles are not to block handicap spaces at any time.
If you see disability or handicap parking abuse, get in touch with local authorities right away. You can speak with the property owners about the incident as well. The more details you have about the make and model of the vehicle, the more information the authorities can use to determine if illegal parking has occurred. Property security or police officers may also have screening devices on hand to scan the parked car’s decal to determine validity.
Disability Evaluation
It may also be helpful to go through a disability screening to determine whether you qualified for a placard. You can work with an attorney for the process. The lawyer will ask if you’re currently receiving Social Security benefits, or help you receive the benefits if you’re eligible. If you have a temporary disability that will cause you to be out of work for a year or more, you’re likely eligible for a permit. The lawyer will also explain why you’re not able to work and when you’re expected to return to work. It’s also important to tell your attorney if you’re receiving any medical treatment that is directly related to your disability. The doctor can also provide you with additional documentation concerning your disability or mobility impairment.
These rules and regulations will make applying for a placard much easier and will help you keep your handicap or disabled permits current.