Disabled Drivers: What To Do If You Become Exhausted While Driving

Fatigue on the road can be incredibly dangerous. Disabled drivers may be more susceptible to fatigue than other drivers, so this is an extra challenge to be aware of if driving for long distances. And what’s more, research shows that some people find car travel particularly sleep-inducing due to the soft vibrations and low hum of the engine.

Noticing the signs of fatigue and being vigilant is important for staying safe behind the wheel. Below, we’ll cover some practical advice for drivers who may struggle with exhaustion when driving, and will offer some tips for preventing and treating the first signs of tiredness while on the road.

What are the signs that you are a fatigued driver?

Driver fatigue usually sets in slowly – you may not be aware of it right away, but it is important to keep an eye out for it if you are undertaking a journey of substantial distance. Your thoughts may be drifting or you may be daydreaming, without really thinking about your driving or the road ahead of you. You may find that as your concentration falters, your reaction speeds slow. Your body may also feel quite stiff and cramped, and your eyes may be a bit sore. Your eyelids may get heavier and some drivers may even end up closing their eyes completely (which, of course, is the most dangerous part!).

Being aware of these things is the best way to prevent any serious accidents while on the road – if you notice any of the above signs, you know it’s time to pull over and take a break.

person exhausted in car — *Image by* *Sinitta Leunen* *on Pexels: Is fatigue considered an impairment while driving?* *Most definitely.*

What type of driver is most likely to be at risk of drowsy driving?

Any driver can be at risk of fatigue while on the road. However, you are most likely to become exhausted behind the wheel if you are already tired when you get into your car. Therefore, it’s best to start out any journeys (particularly long ones) well-rested and free of excessive fatigue.

Disabled drivers may also be more likely to experience exhaustion on the road for several other reasons. They may have to take strong medication or pain relief, which could contribute to drowsiness; in this case, it is very important that disabled drivers do not get behind the wheel while under the influence of these medications. If you’re a disabled driver who requires medication for your condition, it’s important to check the label of your medications to see whether drowsiness is a side effect, as well as discussing this with your physician, who will be able to give further advice.

Disabled drivers may also be at greater risk of exhaustion while driving for the sole reason that some medical conditions or disabilities can make car travel more physically and mentally tiring. If your medical condition makes driving difficult, then you should absolutely consider vehicle adaptations to make it more comfortable for you. However, it’s also important to be extra aware of the signs of fatigue if you’re in this position, especially if you are driving for long distances on your own.

How do I stop being so tired while driving?

As we’ve mentioned, the best way to prevent tiredness while driving is to rest well beforehand so you start each trip on a good note. In addition, there are several other things you can do to prepare for your journey and to prevent fatigue:

Plan your route, so you are aware of your surroundings in advance.
Ensure you stay hydrated and don’t become too hungry.
Avoid alcohol or any medications that may cause drowsiness.
Consider stopping overnight on long trips to break up the journey, and take frequent breaks along the way.

person resting in car — *Image by Greyerbaby on Pixabay: Make sure you take plenty of breaks to prevent exhaustion while driving!*

What to do when tired while driving

If you notice yourself becoming exhausted while on the road, it’s absolutely essential that you take a break as soon as you can – this should be your priority if you are experiencing fatigue. If possible, share your trips with another driver, who can switch with you when you need a rest. However, if this is not an option, the most important thing is to ensure you do not continue driving while tired – this can be dangerous for you and others.

With the proper preparation and awareness, you can greatly reduce the risks associated with fatigue on the road.

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Get Your Disabled Parking Permit Online In Florida

Have you been wondering “How do I get a disability parking permit in Florida?” If so, this post is for you. Below, we’ll go through the qualifying conditions and the application process for you to get your disabled parking permit online in Florida, so you can get started today!

Having a disabled parking permit is a game-changer for those who already struggle with driving and parking, as it assures you will have access to disabled parking spaces close to your destinations. You’ll no longer need to find a space big enough for your modified vehicle, or worry about having to walk long distances once parked. What’s more, it’s illegal for anybody else to use these spaces if they do not have a permit. Clearly there are many benefits of disabled parking for disabled drivers – but how do you get a Florida disabled parking permit?

Who qualifies for disabled parking in Florida?

If you’re a resident of Florida and suffer from one of the state’s qualifying medical conditions, you are eligible for a Florida disabled parking placard. The qualifying conditions that are generally accepted all over the US (and therefore in Florida) include the following:

Having severe lung disease, to the extent that your mobility is affected
Suffering from an extreme orthopedic, neurological or arthritic condition
Requiring a wheelchair, cane, brace or crutch for assistance when walking
Having severely impaired vision
A serious heart condition (Class III or Class IV of the American Heart Association standards)
Needing to use an oxygen tank
Being a disabled veteran with a disability caused by your military service (read more about applying for disabled veteran parking plates here)

laptop and notebook — *Image by Goumbik on Pixabay: Read on for more information on the online FL disabled parking permit!*

There are several conditions not listed above that may still qualify you for disabled parking. Therefore, if you feel you would benefit from a disabled parking permit due to your medical condition, it’s important to have a consultation with a licensed Florida medical professional who can answer any questions you may have on the process. This can be done online via telemedicine with Dr Handicap, so you don’t even need to leave your home!

Get Your Disabled Parking Permit Online In Florida

In order to start legally using disabled parking spaces, you will need a disabled parking placard or plates. The state of Florida offers both temporary and permanent parking placards – temporary ones are valid for up to six months, while permanent ones require renewal after four years (even if your disability is lifelong). You can apply for a placard or plates for either type; just be aware that while permanent permits are free, temporary ones incur a small fee.

First things first – you must complete the medical consultation discussed above. Once you have done so, and a licensed physician has certified your medical condition, you have one year to apply (after this, you will need another medical certification).

First-time applications must be made in person at your local Florida tax collector’s office. You will need to fill out the Florida disabled parking permit form (Application for Disabled Person Parking Permit [Form HSMV 83039]) and submit this along with your medical certification and your state ID (as well as any payment, where relevant).

parking spaces — *Image by JayMantri on Pixabay: You can find the Florida disabled parking permit form online.*

Using your Florida disabled parking permit

Once you have received your Florida disabled parking permit, you must ensure it is always clearly displayed when you park, by hanging it on the rearview mirror or displaying it on the dashboard so that the permit number is always visible. Please note that it is illegal to park in reserved disability parking without doing this – if you don’t comply, you may run into some trouble with the law.

It’s also unlawful to obstruct access to disabled parking spaces or access routes in any way, so ensure you park mindfully to prevent others having difficulty. Finally, you should never lend out your permit or have someone use it when you aren’t in the vehicle – it’s for your use only.

If you require any additional information on getting your Florida disabled parking permit, please contact us today!

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10 Driving Tips That All Disabled Drivers Should Know

Driving with a disability can pose some specific challenges. Many disabled drivers need to operate vehicles that have been adapted or modified in some way. There’s plenty of good advice for disabled drivers out there, and following it will help you keep yourself, your passengers, and other road users safe.

There are several ways you can learn how to drive safely with a disability. One option is to attend a driving school for adults with disabilities. These schools teach people with disabilities how to drive as safely and effectively as possible. You can also find a lot of good information online about how to drive safely with a disability (including right here!).

Read on as we outline 10 driving tips that all disabled drivers should know.

woman driving vehicle — *Image by* *Pexels* on *Pixabay: Driving with a disability can pose some extra challenges.*

Disabled Driving Tips

Here are our top 10 driving tips that all disabled drivers should know.

1. Drive The Safest Vehicle Possible

One of the most effective ways for disabled drivers to stay safe on the roads is to drive a safe vehicle. Modern vehicle safety systems are highly effective, so driving a newer model vehicle will keep you and your passengers safer than driving an old model.

2. Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Well-Maintained

Another important tip that will help you stay safe is to always make sure your vehicle is well maintained. This means taking it for regular servicing and keeping on top of general vehicle maintenance. A well-maintained vehicle is a safe vehicle.

3. Drive A Vehicle With All Appropriate Disability Adaptations

Disabled drivers need to have all of the appropriate vehicle modifications for their specific disability. Make sure your vehicle has any disability adaptations it needs to make driving safer, easier, and much more enjoyable.

4. Stay As Calm As Possible Behind The Wheel

Stressed-out driving, erratic behavior behind the wheel, and road rage are big causes of injury and death on the roads. Always try to stay as calm as possible when behind the wheel. When you’re calm and collected, you’re much more likely to drive responsibly and safely.

5. Stay Safe By Implementing Defensive Driving

It’s always a good idea to implement defensive driving skills. Defensive driving involves:

Always having safety as a first priority.
Being aware of your surroundings.
Not relying on good driving from other road users.
Maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
Driving at a safe speed.
Avoiding distractions.

6. Never Drive While Drowsy

Drowsy driving is a major cause of injury and death on the roads. If you’re tired, pull over and take a nap, get some fresh air, or have a coffee.

7. Never Drive Under The Influence Of Alcohol Or Drugs

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is lethal, and never worth the risk. You should also understand the effects of any prescription or over-the-counter medication you may be taking.

person driving car — *Image by* *freestocks-photos* on *Pixabay: Disabled driving tips can help you stay safe on the roads.*

8. Always Keep Your Vehicle Stocked With Emergency Equipment

It’s important for disabled drivers to keep their vehicle well-stocked with emergency equipment, such as:

First aid kit
Drinking water
Back-up medication
Snacks
Spare tire, tripod jack, wheel wrench
Tool kit
Jumper cables
Flashlight and batteries
Reflective triangles and a reflective vest
Fire extinguisher
Duct tape
Cell phone and car mobile phone charge
Warm clothes and blankets
Snow shovel, snow brush, cat litter for traction
Windshield washer fluid

9. Avoid Heavy Traffic By Planning Your Route In Advance And Using Satellite Navigation

Being stuck in heavy traffic is stressful and time-consuming. You can usually avoid heavy traffic by planning your journey in advance, traveling at off-peak times if possible, and using satellite navigation.

10. Always Have Your Disabled Parking Permit With You

Always make sure you can avail of disabled parking infrastructure wherever you go by having your disabled parking permit with you at all times.

How To Get A Disabled Parking Permit

You can get a disabled parking permit by applying to your local disabled parking authorities. The first step is to have a consultation with a medical professional licensed in your state. This can be done remotely by video conference and can be arranged online with Dr. Handicap.

Once the medical professional has verified your disability, they will sign an application form and email it to you. You should then complete the application and submit it, either by mail, in person, or in some states online, to your local disabled parking authorities. This will usually be your local Department of Motor Vehicles office. It’s a quick and easy process, so get started today!

Featured image by Larisa-K on Pixabay

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Louisiana

Are you wondering what qualifies you for a disability placard in Louisiana? Would you like more information on the Louisiana disabled parking laws you’ll need to abide by? If so, you’ve come to the right place!

Below, we’ll go through all the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Louisiana, outline the application process, and tell you how to properly use your permit once you receive it so that you’re always on the right side of the law. A disabled parking permit can make a huge difference to your experience on the road, so don’t hesitate to apply for one if you’re eligible.

Check out this post for more detailed information on general qualifying conditions throughout the US, and read on to find out more about the specific qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Louisiana!

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Louisiana

As mentioned above, there are many medical conditions that qualify for a disabled parking permit all over the US. These are usually serious ailments or illnesses that severely affect your mobility or ability to otherwise function. Many disabilities can be “invisible”, meaning that they’re difficult to spot for the untrained eye, even though they may be debilitating for the person who has them. It’s therefore important that you discuss any medical condition that’s impairing you with your physician, as you may still qualify for disabled parking even if you may not think you do.

handicap parking sign painted — *Image by paulbr75 on Pixabay: Need more information on how to get a disability tag in Louisiana? Read on!*

In the state of Louisiana, the below conditions entitle you to a disabled parking permit:

Severe lung disease (which affects your ability to move long distances or breathe easily)
A Class III or Class IV heart condition (as per American Heart Association Classification; these are illnesses that greatly affect your day-to-day life)
Inability to walk for 200 feet without needing a rest
Any severe neurological, arthritic or orthopedic condition that affects how far you can walk
Needing portable oxygen
Requirement of an assistive device (wheelchair, crutch, brace etc.)
Being a disabled veteran, if your disability is at least 50% linked to your military service, as confirmed by the Veteran’s Administration (this entitles you to disabled veteran parking plates)

Now we’ve gone through the conditions that qualify for a Louisiana disabled parking permit, it’s important to clarify which types of disabled parking permit are available to residents who qualify. The type you receive will depend on the severity and timespan of your medical condition.

The three types of permit and their lengths of validity are:

Temporary handicap placards – valid for a maximum of one year
Permanent handicap placards – valid for a maximum of four years
Disabled veteran license plates – valid for a maximum of four years

If you already have a disabled parking permit or plates from another US state, you may still use disabled parking spots in Louisiana; however, you must still follow the rules for disabled parking in Louisiana, and not those of your home state (since each state differs in terms of disabled parking regulations).

Louisiana disabled parking laws

You must always display your placard correctly (hanging from the rearview mirror or clearly laid out on the dashboard). Do not give your permit to anyone else to borrow, as this is an offence – even if they are also disabled, they must apply for their own. It’s important that you are also in the vehicle for journeys when the placard is being used, whether as driver or passenger, or the permit is invalid.

Those with disabled parking permits can occupy designated disabled parking spaces, which are specifically designed to make parking adapted vehicles easier and are located for maximum convenience. Permit holders can also park for an additional two hours longer than the limit posted on the meter.

person using online application — *Image by Firmbee on Pixabay: How do I get a disabled parking permit in Louisiana? Read on to discover the application process!*

How do I get a disabled parking permit in Louisiana?

The application process for a Louisiana disabled parking permit is quite straightforward, provided you follow all the steps properly. The first step is to go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles to collect and complete a Louisiana DMV handicap form. Then, you will need to have a consultation with a licensed state physician (which Dr. Handicap can help you organize), who will assess whether you qualify for a permit. If so, they will complete the Medical Examiner’s Certification of Mobility Impairment Form, which you’ll need for your application.

With these documents ready, you can then begin the application process. Please remember to bring a valid form of Louisiana ID (such as a driver’s license), your vehicle registration details, and relevant fee to the DMV. Once the application has been started, you should receive your permit quickly – but remember, don’t park in disabled parking places until you have it with you!

Featured image by Aya Salman on Unsplash

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Kentucky

Kentucky has a user-friendly disabled parking program. Adhering to Americans With Disabilities Act guidelines, disabled parking in Kentucky exists to improve the lives of disabled residents and visitors to the Bluegrass State.

Below, we’ll outline the list of qualifying conditions for a disabled parking placard in Kentucky. We will also explain the Kentucky disabled parking permit application process and discuss Kentucky disabled parking rules and regulations. Let’s jump in!

What Types Of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available In Kentucky?

Kentucky disabled parking permits are available from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing. The following types of disabled parking permits are available in Kentucky:

Permanent placard or license plates
Temporary placard
Disabled Veterans license plate (for people whose disabilities are military service-related)

elderly people — *Image by* *Pavlofox* on *Pixabay: What qualifies you for a disability placard in Kentucky?*

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In Kentucky?

What qualifies you for a disability placard in Kentucky? A person will qualify for a Kentucky disabled parking permit if:

They cannot walk two hundred feet without needing to stop to rest.
They cannot walk without the use of, or assistance from, a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic device, wheelchair, or another assistant device.
They are restricted by lung disease to the extent that their forced respiratory and expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter, or their arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty mm/hg on room air at rest.
They use portable oxygen.
They have a cardiac condition to the extent that their functional limitations are classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to standards set by the American Heart Association.
They are severely limited in their ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition.
They have lost the use of an arm or both arms.
They are blind.

Who Can Certify An Application For A Disabled Parking Permit In Kentucky?

The following medical professionals can certify an application for a permanent disabled parking permit in Kentucky:

Licensed Physician
Physician Assistant
Chiropractor
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse

The following medical professionals can certify an application for a temporary disabled parking permit in Kentucky:

Licensed Physician
Physician Assistant
Physical Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Chiropractor
Advanced Practice Registered Nurse

How Do I Get A Disability Parking Permit In Kentucky?

The Kentucky disability parking placard application process is quick and easy.The forms for a disabled parking permit in KY must be signed by a state-licensed medical professional, so the first step is to have a consultation. This can be done online at the Dr. Handicap online clinic.

Once the application form has been signed by the medical professional, they will email it to you. You can then complete the form and submit it to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing.

When Do Kentucky Disabled Parking Permits Expire?

All types of Kentucky disabled parking permits expire. Once a permit expires, it is no longer valid and will need to be replaced or renewed.

Permanent parking placards are valid for six years.
Temporary parking placards are valid for up to three months.
License plates are valid for up to one year and expire on July 31^st.

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How Do I Renew A Kentucky Disabled Parking Permit?

To renew your Kentucky disabled parking permit, you must submit a new application form to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Kentucky Disabled Parking Rules And Regulations

Kentucky disabled parking permit holders can park for free in any designated disabled parking space and in metered, on-street spaces for free for extended periods in certain jurisdictions.
Permit holders may not park in any parking space that is signposted as “No Parking” or reserved for emergency response or commercial vehicles.
Disabled parking placards must be displayed clearly, hanging from the vehicle’s rearview mirror when the vehicle is parked. Placards must be removed from the rearview mirror and safely stowed when the vehicle is in motion.
Disabled parking permits can only be used by the official permit holder.

Where Can I Use My Kentucky Disabled Parking Permit?

Kentucky disabled parking permits are valid in:

All US states
All US overseas territories
Canada
Mexico
Japan
EU
UK
Australia
New Zealand

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