An invisible illness is one that is not outwardly apparent to others. While an invisible illness, or an invisible disability, may not be at all obvious to others (even to health care professionals), it still affects the individual with the condition.
Invisible illnesses may be difficult to see, but that doesn’t make them any less real. If you have one of the conditions discussed in this article, you may be entitled to a disabled parking permit. Read on for a list of invisible illnesses that may act as qualifying conditions for a disabled parking permit. (Keep in mind that the rules vary from state to state, so be sure to check out the specific qualifying conditions where you live.)
1. Being an amputee
If you are an amputee, even with a prosthetic limb that may not be obvious to others, you may be eligible for a disabled parking permit.
2. Respiratory problems
Those who have breathing difficulties are often entitled to a disabled parking permit. This includes those with oxygen tanks, as well as those with lung disease.
3. Certain heart conditions
If you have a heart condition classified as Class III or IV by the American Heart Foundation, you may apply for a disabled parking permit.
4. Neurological conditions
If you suffer from a severe neurological condition that affects your mobility, you may be eligible for a permit.
5. Severe arthritis
Permits are available for those whose severe arthritis makes it difficult to walk, and those who suffer from reduced mobility.
6. Impaired vision
Certain vision impairments may qualify a patient for a disabled parking permit. The definition of blindness varies between states, so it is best to check how it is defined by your own particular state.
As we have seen above, there are many different invisible illnesses and invisible disabilities that can qualify a patient for a disabled parking permit. Check out this article for more information on attaining one of these permits in 2021.
What are the benefits of a disabled parking permit?
A disabled parking permit can offer a driver peace of mind that they will always have a reserved space to park when carrying out their daily or necessary tasks. This is of huge benefit to those in particular who live in cities, where there may be large volumes of traffic. Being able to park closer to the stores for better accessibility is hugely important for those who have restrictive physical disabilities, but is also beneficial for those with relevant invisible illnesses who meet the criteria for application.
How do I apply for a disabled parking permit?
Applying for a disabled parking permit is a straightforward process. You can find more information on the specific rules surrounding permit applications on this page. Certain states are quite strict; for example, to acquire a permit in the state of Alabama, your certification must come directly from a licensed Alabama physician. If you have previously obtained your certification from a physician in another state, it will not work in Alabama.
Other states may offer more flexibility in this area. For example, Kentucky offers three different types of handicap parking permit; a permanent placard, a temporary placard, and a Disabled Veterans license plate. Applications in Kentucky do not necessarily require a physician’s approval; for some, a chiropractor or even a physical therapist may suffice. It’s important to do the research regarding the rules in your individual state to avoid confusion and make the process as smooth and easy as possible. For more information, you can contact Disabled Parking for online access to a medical professional, who can help assess whether you qualify for a permit in your state.
Disabled parking permits can make life so much easier for those who need them. And, as we have seen, they are not necessarily restricted to those who require wheelchairs, or those who have obvious physical disabilities. If you or someone you know is living with an invisible disability or an invisible illness, you may also qualify for a permit. Be sure to check out your state-specific information to see if you could benefit from a disabled parking permit in your area.
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