The 3 Different Types Of Disabled Parking Spaces

Disabled parking spaces are vital things. To millions of disabled Americans, handicap parking spaces are invaluable lifelines they simply couldn’t get by without.

Disabled parking spaces ensure a core human right that is essential to wellbeing: equal access to the amenities throughout our country. We are all in this together, and disabled parking spaces enable those of us who lack mobility to partake fully in society.

Handicap parking spaces are rightly recognized as crucially important by jurisdictions and citizens all across America. Their upkeep and proper usage is always a high priority, and they are strictly regulated and protected by federal law.

New disabled permit holders might not know much about disabled parking spaces. They may have questions such as: Are there different types of handicap parking spaces? What are the different types of disabled parking space and how should each be used? How can you recognize the difference between the different types of disabled spaces? Does my disability, type of permit, or the vehicle I’m traveling in limit the type of space I can use?

Let’s answer these questions right now.

Are There Different Types Of Disabled Parking Spaces?

Yes, there are three different types of disabled parking spaces in America. The reason there are three types is so the disabled parking program can serve the widest possible group of disabled parking permit holders. The aim is for all disabilities and all vehicle types to be catered for.

Dr. Handicap - Blue Handicap Parking Sign — *Image by arembowski on* *Pixabay: There are three different types of disabled parking space.*

What Are The Different Types Of Disabled Parking Spaces?

The three different types of disabled parking space are:

Accessible parking spaces for cars
Accessible parking spaces for vans (one-sided entry)
Accessible parking spaces for vans (two-sided entry)

What Law Regulates Disabled Parking In America?

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is the federal law that regulates disabled parking spaces in America. The law covers the types of spaces, their dimensions, the number of spaces there should be in any area, and the positioning and placement of spaces.

How Can You Tell The Difference Between The Different Types Of Disabled Spaces?

Accessible parking spaces for cars are for standard vehicles without a wheelchair ramp or lift. These spaces are marked by the International Symbol of Access (blue and white wheelchair symbol). They have at least a 60-inch-wide aisle to allow a person in a wheelchair room to enter and exit the vehicle.

Accessible parking spaces for vans (one-sided entry) are for vehicles that have a ramp or lift. These spaces are marked with the International Symbol of Access and have a striped access aisle on the driver’s side that is at least 96 inches wide.

Accessible parking spaces for vans (two-sided entry) are similar to those with one-sided entry. The only difference is that they have an access aisle on both sides.

How Can You Know Whether Parking In A Certain Space Is Appropriate For You?

The right parking space depends on whether or not the vehicle you are driving has a ramp or lift, and who is traveling in the vehicle at the time in question. If your vehicle has a side door with a ramp or lift, then you will need to use a van space. The lift or lamp is the pertinent issue, as more space is required to enter and exit a vehicle using one of these devices.

If you are a wheelchair user who does not use a ramp or lift, then you can use a car space, because the 60-inch-wide aisle will be enough. Whether you are traveling in a car, van, or SUV, these spaces will be large enough provided you will not be using a ramp or lift.

If your vehicle has a ramp or lift on both sides, and passengers will be entering and exiting on both sides, you will need to use a van space with two-sided entry.

Dr Handicap - disabled parking sign on wall — *Image by* *StephanieAlbert* on *Pixabay: How can you know which disabled parking space is right for you? It all depends on your vehicle.*

How Many Disabled Spaces Are Parking Lots Required To Contain?

Under the ADA, all parking lots must contain disabled parking spaces, including at least one space for vans. The amount of mandatory disabled spaces increases with the size of the parking lot.

For example, smaller parking lots with 1–25 spaces must contain at least one accessible parking space for vans. For larger parking lots of between 501–1000 spaces, 2% of total spaces must be disabled, including 2–4 accessible parking space for vans.

How Do You Get A Disabled Parking Permit?

If you do not yet have a disabled parking permit, the easiest way to get one is to apply through Dr. Handicap. You’ll have a telemedicine consultation with a registered physician, who will examine you, recommend the type of disabled permit you will need, and provide you with a letter of recommendation.

Featured image by Binyamin Mellish on Pexels

4 Things You Should Know About Disabled Parking If You’re Visually Impaired

Disabled parking permits allow those with disabilities to navigate the world and get where they need to go. When most people think of those who use disabled parking permits, they tend to think of those with mobility issues, but the truth is that many different disabilities qualify a person to use a disabled parking permit – including visual impairments.

If you’re visually impaired and ready to use your disabled parking permit, then here are a few things you need to know about disabled parking for visual impairment!

1. The Specifics Of Disabled Parking For Visual Impairment In Your State

While each state has different qualifications in order to be eligible for a disabled parking permit, many states consider limited vision to be a qualifying condition.

You should check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (or whatever agency handles disabled parking permits) to see what the qualifications are, but most states require a visual acuity of 20/200 or less with corrective lenses, or a limited field of vision in the best eye that doesn’t allow for an angle greater than 20 degrees.

Keep in mind that even those who have vision impairments so severe they cannot drive are still eligible for a disabled parking permit. Having one would allow those who do drive you places to park closer to retail or business locations when you are with them. Disabled parking permits aren’t just for drivers, after all – they’re for passengers, too.

Dr Handicap - glasses — *Image by Mark S. on Unsplash: What qualifies as visual impairment? Check with your state DMV to find out!*

2. How To Get A Disabled Parking Permit When You’re Visually Impaired

If you have a visual impairment, you can easily get the process started for a disabled parking permit in your state. Check with the local DMV to see your state’s specific process, but in general you will need to:

Have a doctor (or optometrist) verify your qualifying medical condition
Make sure it is a qualifying condition within the state’s limits
Get an application directly from the DMV office or go to their website to download one
Complete the form with your health care provider
Submit the completed application in person or by mail

Fees for disabled parking permits also vary by state. Some states do not charge anything, while other states may charge a small fee. You can find out this information through your local DMV.

3. How To Approach Handicap Parking When Visually Impaired

Parking lots can be a trouble spot for drivers with low visual acuity or issues with field of vision. Aside from the fact that you must sometimes fit into spots that feel tight, getting out of the spot once you’re in it can also be an issue.

If you have issues with vision, here are a few parking tips that can help:

Choose a spot you can pull through. Selecting a parking spot you don’t have to back out of can be a good way to avoid accidents. Parking in a spot that allows you to pull through means you can more easily make a simple turn to get out of the parking spot.
Use spots outside the primary aisles. The busiest aisles can be difficult to navigate for low-vision drivers, especially when pulling out of a parking spot. A spot off the main thoroughfare allows you to reduce the risk cross-traffic can impose.
Choose spots by themselves. Another great tip is to park in spots that are not across from other parking spots. That way, you do not have to worry about another driver pulling out at the same time while also having to look out for cross-traffic.

These tips can be useful any time, but the best thing you can do is get and use a disabled parking permit. Disabled parking spots are not only close to the main entrance, but are often larger with a wider berth around them, making parking easier as well as getting in and out of the car.

Utilizing these spots will make parking much easier for those who are visually impaired, so it’s worth the time to go through the process of getting a permit to help you get around town.

Dr Handicap - visually impaired — *Image by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash: What qualifies as visual impairment? Your eye doctor will know!*

4. The Best Cars For Visually Impaired Drivers

A car that is easy to navigate is a must for any driver with visual impairments. Large, unruly vehicles that can be difficult to navigate in tight situations are likely not a great choice, though what you are comfortable driving is up to you.

No matter what type of car you drive, you may want to invest in some extras to make it easier. Blind spot mirrors are inexpensive and an easy way to help improve your visibility when driving. Many cars also have blind spot detectors, back up mirrors, and collision warning systems. If it’s in your budget, it’s not a bad idea to invest in a car with these types of additions to make navigating with impaired vision a little safer.

Featured image by Marina Vitale on Unsplash

7 Things You Should Know About Disabled Parking If You’re In a Wheelchair

Millions of Americans use a wheelchair at some point in their lifetime. Some people are long-term wheelchair users, while others spend only a few weeks in one due to a temporary disability. Knowing how to park when you’re in a wheelchair, as well as your disabled parking rights, is important.

The large majority of American wheelchair users are capable of driving, especially with the impressive array of vehicle adaptations for wheelchair-using disabled drivers available today. Technology, in the form of vehicle adaptations and modifications, as well as handy smartphone apps, is making driving easier than ever for wheelchair users.

Several considerations should be taken into account when you are in a wheelchair and using disabled parking. What type of disabled parking permit should you get? What are the legal regulations regarding disabled parking spaces? How do you get in and out of your vehicle safely? What technology can you make use of as a wheelchair user? How do you apply for a disabled parking permit as a wheelchair user?

Read on for seven key things you need to know about handicap parking as a wheelchair user.

Dr Handicap - wheelchair user — *Image by on Marcus Aurelius* *on Pexels: Disabled parking for wheelchair users can make life a whole lot easier.*

1. A Wide Range Of Injuries Can Necessitate Wheelchair Usage

People need to use a wheelchair for a wide array of reasons. Some people are disabled for life, whereas others use a wheelchair for only a short period of time. Lots of disabled parking permit-holders use a wheelchair.

Needing to use a wheelchair, for any reason, is a qualifying condition in and of itself for a disabled parking permit. Some of the most common reasons that disabled parking permit-holders use a wheelchair are:

Amputation
Arthritis
Broken bones
Cardiovascular disease
Lung disease
Neurological diseases
Orthopedic conditions

2. Several Types Of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available

Wheelchair users can avail of several different types of disabled parking permit. The exact types of permit available varies state-by-state, but all states have some versions of the following disabled parking permit variations:

Permanent disabled parking placard or license plate. This is for people with a long-term disability. Many wheelchair users fall into this category, such as amputees and people with a neurological disease.
Temporary disabled parking placard. This is for people whose disability is expected to be short-term. Wheelchair users in this category include people with broken bones and other temporary injuries, and in some states, pregnant people.
Disabled Veterans license plates. DV plates are for people whose disability is related to their military service.
Organizational placards and plates. These are for organizations that transport disabled people.

3. Wheelchair Accessible Parking Spaces Are Regulated By The ADA

The Americans With Disabilities Act covers the rules and regulations regarding universal access parking spaces. Some of the rules the ADA stipulates are:

There must be a certain number of disabled spaces in any parking facility. (For example, in a facility with 1–25 parking spaces there must be one disabled space, and in a facility with 26–50 spaces there must be two disabled spaces.)
Medical facilities must have additional disabled parking spaces.
Disabled spaces must connect to the shortest accessible route to the building or facility they serve.
Disabled spaces must be eight feet wide and van-accessible spaces must be 11 feet wide. Access aisles for either type of space must be five feet wide.
Disabled spaces must be clearly marked by the universal access symbol.

Dr Handicap - disabled parking place — *Image by David Magalhães on Unsplash:* *Handicap parking spaces are regulated by the ADA.*

4. It’s Important To Know How To Enter And Sit In Your Vehicle Safely

As a wheelchair driver, it’s important that you are careful at all times when getting in and out of your vehicle.

Some of the most important recommendations when getting in and out of your vehicle as a wheelchair user include:

If possible, get into the vehicle’s seat, which is designed for maximum crash safety.
If you need to stay in your wheelchair, make sure it is a WCl9-compliant wheelchair (which means it is designed for use as a vehicle seat, has a safety belt, and has been crash-tested).
Position your seatbelt correctly.
Safely anchor your wheelchair using a four-point tie-down system, whether you are sitting in the wheelchair or in the vehicle seat.

5. Vehicle Adaptations Can Make Life Easier For Disabled Drivers

Vehicle adaptations for wheelchair users are improving all the time. Some of the most useful adaptations for wheelchair users are:

Hand controls
Adaptive electronic controls
Wheelchair ramps and lifts
Lowered floors and raised roofs
Steering wheel extensions
Transfer seats

6. Smartphone Disabled Parking Apps Can Help You Find Parking

Several apps are available to make life easier for wheelchair users looking for disabled parking.

Wheelmate is an example of a useful app that helps you to find wheelchair accessible parking and restrooms near you.

7. Applying For Disabled Parking Is Easy

Getting a handicap parking permit when you’re in a wheelchair is an easy process. Simply go to Dr. Handicap and set up an online consultation with a doctor, who will verify your disability and recommend the best type of disabled parking permit for you.

They will write you a letter of recommendation and you will have your own disabled parking permit within a few weeks.

Featured image by Marcus Aurelius on Pexels

4 Things You Should Know About Disabled Parking If You’re On Crutches

If you sustain an injury, your life can temporarily get a lot more difficult if you need to use crutches to get around. But there is one thing that can make walking around a bit easier: if you apply for a temporary handicap parking permit, you can get access to closer parking places so that you don’t have to walk as far when you’re out and about.

Here’s everything you need to know about disabled parking on crutches.

1. Many types of injuries that require the use of crutches can end up helping you qualify for a handicap placard.

Using crutches typically means your doctor is recommending you keep weight off of an injured leg or foot so that an injury can heal and you can get back to full mobility as quickly as possible.

There are many injuries that could require the use of crutches, including:

Achilles tendon ruptures
Broken or sprained ankles
Foot fractures
Stress fractures
Tibia fractures
Pulled or strained muscles
ACL injuries

Your doctor can suggest underarm crutches (which are the most commonly used crutches in the US) or forearm crutches (which have an open cuff that grips your arms while you’re using them).

Underarm crutches can be used for most injuries, but they can cause sore underarms. Sometimes doctors will suggest the forearm crutches if you have a more long-term injury that will require the use of crutches for an extended period of time. These do tend to give you more control over your movements and are easier to navigate on uneven terrain.

When you get your crutches, make sure to adjust them to your height so that you can move about more comfortably, and follow your doctor’s advice on how long to use the crutches.

Dr Handicap - physician — *Image by Gustavo Fring on Pexels: Your doctor can help you determine if a temporary disability parking permit is right for you.*

2. You can get a disabled parking permit if you need crutches.

Getting a handicap parking permit when you are on crutches can be a great way to take care of yourself and better support your healing. Check with your doctor to see if they think you could benefit from a handicap placard. Typically, people who require crutches apply for a temporary disability parking permit; these are generally valid for around three months (although this does depend on the state you live in).

You can easily get a permit application from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), either in person or online. Then, have your doctor complete the medical certification portion of the application to verify that you do have a need for crutches, have limited mobility, and could benefit from access to closer parking places. You can submit your completed application to the DMV, and once approved, you should get your placard in the mail.

On the chance that your disability is a long-term one that requires the use of crutches, you can apply for a permanent permit, which typically needs to be renewed every few years. Your doctor can help you determine which type of placard is right for you.

3. It might be possible for you to drive with crutches.

It’s possible that you’re allowed to drive even if you require the use of crutches, but it’s probably not the best idea. It’s not technically illegal to drive with a broken or injured leg or foot (if it’s on your left side), but you should definitely follow your doctor’s instructions.

If they recommend you skip driving while your injury is healing, you should listen to them. Plus, you would never want to get pulled over by law enforcement or get in an accident and be fined, ticketed, or charged with a crime because you were driving in an unsafe manner because of your injury.

Even if you’re not the driver of the vehicle, you can still use your handicap parking placard as a passenger in the car, so you can still always get all of the advantages of a permit even if you’re not in the driver’s seat.

Dr Handicap - handicap parking sign — *Image by IanDScofieldWriter on Pixabay: Your handicap parking permit can give you access to close parking places while you still need your crutches.*

4. There are a few things to keep in mind when using your disabled parking permit.

So, can a person with crutches park in a handicapped parking space? As long as you have a valid, up-to-date handicap placard, you are permitted to park in any designated handicapped parking places (which are usually marked with blue or white paint, posted signs, and an International Symbol of Access of a wheelchair).

Handicap parking on crutches can be really useful so that you don’t have to walk as far to get to your destination. Less time walking with your crutches means you will have more energy, and you most likely won’t experience as much discomfort in your injured limb and your underarm area.

Just remember to follow all posted signs and only use your handicap placard if you’re the driver or passenger (that means no lending it out to friends or family!). If you require another temporary placard after yours has expired, renew your placard with the DMV. Then you can focus on healing your injury and getting yourself back on your feet!

Featured image by Anna Shvets on Pexels

4 Things You Should Know About Disabled Parking If You’re In A Sling

Having one of your arms in a sling can be a frustrating experience. You don’t have your full range of motion and often need to rely on others for help with day-to-day tasks. But there is one element that can be made a little bit easier.

Getting a handicap parking permit can give you access to more convenient parking places while you’re out and about. Here’s all the info you need to know about disabled parking in a sling.

1. There are many injuries that could require you to use a sling.

The use of a sling is required when a person needs to restrict movement in either one of their shoulders or arms. The sling works to immobilize the arm so that movement is minimal, allowing for injuries to mend. They’re made out of a strong fabric loop that hangs from your neck to support your arm. Your arm is bent at the elbow and rests in the sling. Some slings have a strap that also goes down your back to take the weight off of your neck; this strap is connected to the elbow side of the sling.

Slings are most often used for broken or dislocated shoulders, arms, or wrists or muscle strains or tears. There are also cases where people have operations (such as a rotator cuff surgery) and need to wear a sling for an extended period of time. There are other conditions that are a little bit more rare in terms of needing a sling (such as arthritis or stroke), but if you’ve been wondering whether getting a handicap parking permit when you have arthritis or another medical issue is a good idea, the answer is yes! Disabled parking in an arm cast or in a sling can be really useful – even if you don’t require the sling for a long period of time.

Dr Handicap - doctor — *Image by ElenaBuzmakova_Borisova on Pixabay: Your doctor can help you fill out a medical certification for your permit application.*

2. You can apply for a disabled parking placard.

Most people who need to use a sling won’t be using one permanently. As soon as their doctors clear them, they can stop using one. However, in the meantime, it can be helpful for a person to apply for a handicap parking permit. There is a fairly straightforward application process that you’ll need to fill out with your physician to get your placard. Your doctor can help you complete the medical certification portion of the application that tells your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that you could benefit from the use of a permit.

Your doctor will most likely recommend you for temporary disability parking. These placards are typically a different color than the blue permanent ones and can be used for a shorter period of time. Every state is different, but most states allow these permits to be used for around three months. They can be renewed a few times if you discover that you need to use your sling for a longer period of time. After submitting your completed application, the DMV will mail out your placard for you to use while you’re using your sling. It’s not likely that you’ll require the permanent use of a sling, but if you do, your doctor can help you request a permanent handicap parking permit.

3. There are a few things to keep in mind when driving with a sling.

The first thing to remember is that you probably shouldn’t be driving with your sling at all. It can be risky to drive with a sling because you don’t have full range of motion in your body and can’t grip the steering wheel or gears properly. You should ask yourself if you’re really capable of driving safely with your injury if you’re contemplating getting behind the wheel.

Second, always follow your doctor’s recommendations. If they say to keep your arm in a sling for four weeks, do so for that length of time and avoid driving. They’re the best judge of how capable you are to safely operate a car. While in need of a sling, ask a friend or family member to help with transportation or use the Uber or Lyft app to get a ride.

You never want to be in a position where you’re behind the wheel and are pulled over for a traffic violation or cause an accident. You can be cited if law enforcement determines that you were unable to drive safely because of your sling.

4. You can take advantage of handicap parking with a placard.

So, can a person with a broken arm park in a handicapped parking space? As long as you have your disabled parking permit, you definitely can. With your arm in a sling and your placard in hand, you can park in any designated handicapped parking places (usually indicated by posted signs, blue paint, or the International Symbol of Access of a wheelchair).

If you don’t need a van-accessible parking place, it’s common courtesy to save these spots for other disabled individuals who need them. However, your permit does mean that you can park in any handicapped parking places as long as your placard is valid. Just be sure to still follow all posted signs and parking restrictions.

If you find yourself in need of a sling and your doctor recommends a temporary disabled parking permit, make sure to fill out an application with the DMV. Then you can use your placard for the duration of time you require the sling, giving you immediate access to more convenient parking places to help make your life a little easier.

Featured image by Achim Raschka on Wikimedia Commons