Is Handicap Parking Free In Alabama?

Alabama has a well-run and user-friendly disabled parking program. The Alabama program adheres to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines and is similar to the disabled parking programs you will find in other US states.

The Alabama disabled parking program exists to improve the lives of disabled Alabama residents and disabled visitors to the state. In order for the program to operate optimally, it is important that all users understand and abide by its rules and regulations.

There are several questions that all Alabama disabled parking permit-holders, and visitors to the state, need to know the answers to, such as… Is handicap parking free in Alabama? Can you park free at a meter with a handicap placard in AL? Can you park in a handicap spot with disabled veteran plates in Alabama? What is the fine for parking in a handicap spot in Alabama without a permit?

Read on to discover the answers to these important questions.

Alabama Handicap Parking Laws

Although each US state abides by the ADA, each also implements its own unique handicap parking program. Alabama has its own disabled parking program rules, regulations, and laws. It is important that people who intend to use Alabama handicap parking infrastructure understand the specific Alabama handicap parking laws.

city of birmingham in alabama — *Image by* *12019* on *Pixabay: Is handicap parking free in Alabama?*

Is Handicap Parking Free In Alabama?

It is free to get a handicap parking placard in Alabama. It is also free for permit holders to park in Alabama if they are parking in a designated disabled parking space.

How Do You Recognize An Alabama Disabled Parking Spot?

Alabama disabled parking spots are signposted with the International Symbol of Accessibility. According to the ADA, all official disabled parking spaces must be clearly signposted with a sign that sits at least five feet off the ground.

Can You Park Free At A Meter With A Handicap Placard In AL?

Unlike in many other US states, disabled parking permit holders cannot park for free in metered, on-street spaces in Alabama. Disabled drivers must pay if they want to park in metered spaces in this state.

What Is The Fine For Parking In A Handicap Spot In Alabama Without A Permit?

If a person parks in an Alabama disabled parking spot without a permit they will be fined $50 for their first offense, $200 for their second offense, and $500 for any future offenses.

Can You Park In A Handicap Spot With Disabled Veteran Plates In Alabama?

Unlike in other states, a Disabled Veterans tag on its own does not entitle its holder to park in disabled spaces in Alabama. To park in disabled spaces, a disabled veteran in Alabama must have a disabled license plate or have a wheelchair symbol added to their Disabled Veteran tag.

How Do You Get A Handicap Parking Permit In Alabama?

To get a disabled parking permit in Alabama, you need to have a consultation with a qualified medical professional who will verify your disability. This is easy to do remotely through the Dr. Handicap online clinic. You, and the examining medical professional, will then need to complete an application form and submit it to a Local County Licensing Office.

Who Can Verify An Application For Disabled Parking in Alabama?

The only type of medical professional who is qualified to verify an application for an Alabama disabled parking permit is a licensed physician.

What Types Of Handicap Parking Permits Are Available In Alabama?

There are three types of disabled parking permits available in Alabama:

Long-term disabled placards and plates (valid for five years)
Temporary placards (valid for six months)
Organizational plates

city street in Alabama — *Image by* *12019* on *Pixabay: How do you get a handicap parking permit in Alabama?*

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For Disabled Parking In Alabama?

The qualifying conditions for a disabled parking permit in Alabama are:

The applicant cannot walk two hundred feet without stopping to rest
The applicant cannot walk without the use of a walking assistance device
The applicant suffers from a cardiac condition that is classified in severity as Class III or Class IV by the American Heart Association
The applicant is limited in their mobility by an orthopedic, arthritic, or neurological condition
The applicant suffers from lung disease to the extent that their forced respiratory expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than 60 mm/hg on room air at rest
The applicant uses a portable oxygen tank

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Why Handicap Parking Permits Allow You To Skip Lines At The DMV

Waiting in line at the DMV is time-consuming and inconvenient at the best of times and downright infuriating at the worst. DMV offices are usually busy, and lines are long and slow-moving. It can take a long time to get to the top of the queue in order to submit your disabled parking permit application.

The vast majority of people would rather not have to wait in line at all. Luckily, in most states, it is possible to avoid waiting in long lines at your local DMV office. The best way to do this is to submit your disabled parking application forms online, which many states now allow residents to do. And in states that do not yet allow online applications, submissions by mail are the norm.

Did you know that with the help of the Dr. Handicap online clinic, you can avoid waiting in line at the DMV by having Dr. Handicap mail your completed application on your behalf? Below, we explore this and other ways you can avoid wasting time in long lines at your local DMV.

What Is The DMV?

DMV stands for Department of Motor Vehicles. Each state has its own DMV that is responsible for administering driving tests, registering vehicles, and issuing disabled parking permits.

DMV is the most common name for this branch of state government, with 23 states and the District of Columbia using it. The next most common names are Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), which is used in five states, and Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), which is used in three states.

person using tablet — *Image by* *pexels* on *Pixabay: Dr. Handicap can help you avoid lines at the DMV.*

What Is A DMV Disability Placard?

A DMV disability placard is another name for a disabled parking placard. It is also sometimes called a disability permit, a handicap parking placard, or a disability decal.

All of these names refer to the same permit. Each state issues its own version of a DMV disability placard, which entitles its holder to park in designated disabled parking spaces and often to park in metered, on-street spaces free of charge.

How Do I Get A Handicap Placard From The DMV?

You can get a handicap placard from your local DMV by submitting an application form. The form needs to be filled in by the applicant and by a licensed medical professional who has verified the applicant’s disability and suitability for disabled parking.

Can I Get A Disabled Permit From The DMV Online?

In several states, you can now apply for your disabled parking permit online. California has introduced a fully online application process, for example, and it has proven to be a massive success.

Unfortunately, not all states have introduced a fully online application process yet, so you should check with your local DMV to find out if it is possible where you live.

Can I Renew My Handicap Placard Online?

In the states that allow online disabled parking applications, you can also apply to renew a handicap placard online.

Why Handicap Parking Permits Allow You To Skip Lines At The DMV

The best ways to skip lines at the DMV are to apply fully online or to mail in your application. If you already have a permanent handicap parking permit and you need to renew, you usually do not need new verification from a medical professional, so you can just mail an application form directly to your local DMV.

person waiting — *Image by* *JESHOOTS-com* on *Pixabay: Waiting in line at the DMV is time-consuming.*

Dr. Handicap Can Help You Avoid The Lines At The DMV

The Dr. Handicap online clinic can help you to avoid lines at the DMV by mailing your application to your local DMV if that service is available in your state.

At the clinic, you will have a remote video consultation with a medical professional, who will fill in the necessary sections of your application form. This means you can complete the entire handicap parking permit application process from the comfort of your own home.

What If You Are Visiting The DMV In Person?

Some states require that you submit applications for certain types of permits in person. If your state does not allow online or mail applications and you must visit the DMV in person, you can request assistance at the customer service desk. All DMV offices will assist any disabled customers and ensure that they receive any help they need.

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Is Handicap Parking Free In Florida?

Florida is a dream vacation destination for a lot of people. The beaches and beautiful scenery of the state are something enjoyed by both locals and those looking for a tropical escape from the everyday.

If you use disabled parking, you may be wondering about the rules surrounding handicap parking in Florida. For example, is handicap parking free in Florida? Can hotels charge for handicap parking? What are the rules for handicap parking in Florida?

Below are the answers to all those questions and more for those traveling around the Sunshine State with handicap parking placards or plates.

How To Get a Handicap Parking Placard in Florida

You can get an application for a disabled person parking permit through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Fill out the application and get it signed by your doctor, then take it with payment to the local tax collector’s office. You will also need a copy of your state identification card or driver’s license.

If you are traveling to Florida from another state, you can use your handicap parking permit in Florida. However, if you are visiting from another country, you may have to get a temporary disabled parking permit in Florida if you wish to have disabled parking privileges.

black and white disabled parking signage — *Image by Possessed Photography on Unsplash: What are the rules for handicap parking in Florida? They’re not too complicated if you can scout your location ahead of time.*

Types of Disabled Parking Permits in Florida

In Florida, the state grants disabled parking permits on both a temporary and a permanent basis. Temporary disabled parking permits are for short-term mobility issues and are good for up to six months. Temporary permits cost $15.

Permanent handicap parking permits are for long-term mobility issues or for those who are declared legally blind. These permits are valid for a term of four years and must be renewed by the holder’s birthday on the year it expires.

Is Handicap Parking Free in Florida?

One of the biggest questions people have about handicap parking in Florida is whether it is free or not. Those with disabled parking permits can park for free at on-street meters. In some places, the time you can park there is unlimited, but in others, the local ordinance may limit the time to four hours. The idea behind this rule is that those with disabilities or mobility issues may find it a challenge to constantly return to their vehicle and feed parking meters.

If you’re planning a trip and you’ve been wondering “Is handicap parking free in Miami?”, your best bet is to check with the city before attempting to park. It’s always best to do your research beforehand to find out specific parking rules, even if you generally expect to be able to park for free at metered parking spots.

Can Hotels Charge for Handicap Parking in Florida?

Another thing many people want to know is if hotels can charge for handicap parking in Florida. The simple truth is that Florida law only explicitly exempts those with disabilities from paying for on-street parking at meters. Other places, such as public garages, airports, convention centers, and hotels, are allowed to charge a person with a handicap parking permit for parking.

The only case in which free parking must be granted is if someone has a Florida Toll Exemption Permit or special equipment on their vehicle such as foot or hand controls, lifts, and ramps. Toll exemption permits are reserved for those with severe upper body mobility issues.

However, you should contact any hotel you plan to stay at before you arrive to find out if they do charge for parking for disabled guests. Policies can be different between properties.

Dr Handicap - disabled parking spots — *Image by Robert Ruggiero on Unsplash: Do you have to pay for parking if you have a handicap placard in Florida? You might – it depends on what kind of parking you need.*

Unauthorized Use of Handicap Parking Permits

In some places in Florida, parking spaces can be difficult to find. If someone you know, either a family member or a friend, approaches you about using your disabled parking permit and you let them when you’re not with them, then you risk some serious consequences.

Anyone caught unlawfully using a handicap parking permit in Florida can have the permit confiscated and be charged with a misdemeanor crime. You can lose your disabled parking privileges for up to four years. For this reason, never use your permit unless you are in the vehicle and it’s for your use.

If you have more questions about handicap parking in Florida, contact Dr. H for help!

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How Do I Renew My Handicap Sticker In Georgia?

The State of Georgia has an excellent disabled parking program. The process of applying for a Georgia permit is easy to navigate and the state is amply supplied with disabled parking infrastructure. Georgia residents, as well as visitors to the state who have an out-of-state handicap parking permit, get to avail of a disabled parking program that makes life a lot more manageable for people with mobility issues.

In order for the Georgia handicap parking program to work well, it needs to be appropriately regulated. Georgia handicap parking authorities run a tight ship, with a firm-but-fair implementation of the rules.

It is important that people who are using the handicap parking program in Georgia understand the rules and regulations. They need to know what types of permits are available in Georgia, who qualifies for disabled parking in the state, how to apply for a permit, and how to renew a handicap permit in Georgia.

Below, we will answer several crucial questions about the Georgia handicap parking program, including… How do I renew my handicap sticker in Georgia? How much does a handicap placard cost in Georgia? And how do you get a handicap sticker in Georgia?

atlanta city at night in georgia — *Image by 12019 on* *Pixabay: How do I renew my handicap sticker in Georgia?*

Who Can Apply For A Georgia Disabled Parking Permit?

Any resident of Georgia can apply for a handicap parking placard in the state. They will need to have a qualifying temporary or permanent disability. A business, institution, or organization can also apply for a Georgia handicap parking permit if they transport disabled people.

What Types Of Handicap Parking Permits Are Available In Georgia?

The following disabled parking permits are available in Georgia:

Temporary placard
Permanent placard (also issued to businesses, institutions, and organizations)
Special equipment permanent placard (issued to people with permanent disabilities who drive a vehicle with hand controls or who have lost the use of both upper extremities)
Permanent license plate
Disabled veterans license plate

How Long Are Georgia Handicap Parking Permits Valid For?

Permanent disabled permits in Georgia are valid for four years. A temporary permit is valid for 180 days. Both types of disabled parking permits can be renewed when they expire.

How Do I Renew My Handicap Sticker In Georgia?

The Georgia disabled placard renewal process is straightforward. You need to download or collect an application form from the Georgia Department of Revenue. You’ll then complete sections A, B, and F of the application form and submit it, either in person or by post, to the local County Tag Office. When renewing a permanent permit, there is no need to get a new medical professional’s verification.

You cannot renew a temporary permit; instead you must apply for a new temporary permit, including new verification from a licensed medical professional.

city in georgia usa — *Image by Wesley Hall on Unsplash: How much does a handicap placard cost in Georgia?*

How Do You Get A Handicap Sticker In Georgia?

To apply for your first permanent Georgia handicap sticker, or any temporary permit, arrange a telemedicine consultation with a medical professional through the Dr. Handicap online clinic. Once your disability has been verified, the medical professional will complete the relevant sections of an application form, which you can then complete and submit to your local County Tag Office.

How Much Does A Handicap Placard Cost In Georgia?

Temporary, permanent, and special permanent disabled parking permits in Georgia are free. A handicap license plate costs $20.

Who Can Verify An Application For A Georgia Handicap Parking Permit?

The following licensed medical professionals can verify an application for a disabled parking permit in Georgia:

Doctor of medicine or osteopathic medicine
Podiatrist
Optometrist
Chiropractor

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Georgia Handicap Parking Permit?

The following disabilities qualify a person for disabled parking in Georgia:

Being severely hearing impaired
Any disability that will incapacitate a person for more than 180 days
An inability to walk 200 feet without stopping to rest
An inability to walk without the use of or assistance from a brace, a cane, a crutch, another person, a prosthetic device, a wheelchair, or another assistive device
Lung disease
Portable oxygen usage
A cardiac condition that is classified in severity as Class III or Class IV according to the American Heart Association
Visually impaired
Severely limited mobility due to an arthritic, neurological, or orthopedic condition, or complications due to pregnancy

What Are The Georgia Handicap Parking Laws?

A Georgia handicap permit entitles its holder to park in any designated disabled parking space in Georgia or in any other US state. It also entitles its holder to park in metered, on-street spaces free of charge and for unlimited time periods in some jurisdictions.

Featured image by 12019 on Pixabay

6 Defensive Driving Techniques That All Disabled Drivers Should Know

Most drivers have heard the term defensive driving. But what exactly does it mean? And why is defensive driving for disabled drivers so important?

Defensive driving is a series of actions and behaviors that will help you stay safe behind the wheel. As a driver, you can only control your own actions, not those of other drivers, so defensive driving techniques help you stay safe on the road, even if another driver makes a mistake.

Done correctly, defensive driving will help you avoid accidents by spotting hazards in advance and avoiding dangerous situations. It’s particularly important for disabled drivers who might have special physical or mental considerations that make driving more challenging.

If you want to stay safe and prepared while on the road, here are a few defensive driving techniques that all disabled drivers should know.

1. Follow the three-second rule

The three-second rule is taught to new drivers as a way of preventing collisions. It states that you should keep at least three seconds of time between yourself and the car ahead of you, so if they brake suddenly, you’ll have time to react.

However, for disabled drivers who might have slower response times, consider following a five- or six-second rule. If you know it will take you longer to react to something on the road, it’s completely OK to keep a wider berth between yourself and other drivers.

Don’t worry about cars behind you – they can pass you if they choose to do so. You can also yield or pull over to let other drivers pass you if they’re driving aggressively.

2. Drive at times of the day that are safest for you

What are some defensive driving skills specific to disabled drivers? One of our top recommendations is to only drive at times of the day when you’re most focused and alert, as this will help you stay safe.

For example, if you know you feel tired at certain times of the day when you take your medication, plan your trips so you don’t need to be on the road during these times.

person using phone while behind wheel of vehicle — *Image by melissa mjoen on Unsplash: Driving defensively means avoiding distractions – especially cell phones – and focusing all of your attention on the road.*

3. Minimize distractions

So, what should every driver know about defensive driving? If it’s one thing, it’s this: minimize distractions! Distracted driving is the leading cause of crashes in the US, so never take your eyes off the road.

If you need to check your phone, make a call, or change the radio, always pull over somewhere safe to do so. Avoid eating while driving, too – if your disability means you need to eat frequently for your blood sugar, always do so when the car is parked.

Taking your eyes off the road for a split second is all it takes to cause a collision, so don’t take the risk.

4. Scan the road constantly

To drive defensively, you should always be scanning the road. Keep your eyes on what’s immediately ahead of you, but also what’s ahead on the horizon, so you’re completely aware of your surroundings. This way, it’s easier to make decisions and react to upcoming problems, such as a traffic jam.

Keep in mind that scanning the road and paying close attention can be mentally tiring, especially for those with a disability. On long drives, take plenty of rest breaks so you’re fresh, or share the driving with someone else.

5. Use your mirrors

When you get in the car, always double-check that your mirrors are positioned correctly. If someone else drove the car before you, you’ll probably need to adjust them to your height.

As you drive, check your mirrors regularly, especially before you make a turn or switch lanes – mirrors are one of your most important tools for staying safe.

person reading map to determine driving route — *Image by ali elliott on Unsplash: You’ll be safer on the road if you always know where you’re going before you get in the car.*

6. Plan your route in advance

For some drivers, especially those with learning disabilities, navigating to a new place can be confusing and overwhelming. Reading road signs while driving, looking for the right exit, and focusing on the road can be a lot to do at once, especially if you’re trying to navigate as well.

If you’re someone who struggles with unfamiliar environments, it’s smart to always plan your route in advance. Review your directions and use a GPS to help you navigate as you drive. This will help you stay calm and focused on your driving, without needing to stress about where you’re going. If you do get lost and feel panicked, pull over and take a few deep breaths – it can be unsafe to drive while you’re feeling frustrated or stressed.

If you’re looking for more safe driving tips, reach out to your local driving school to learn more. Wondering “Why would someone take a defensive driving course?” It can be a great way to refresh your skills, especially if you’re out of practice.

Defensive driving is one of the best ways for drivers with disabilities to protect themselves. However, disabled drivers also have an easier time once they’ve approved for handicapped permits, which makes parking much more convenient. If you’re not sure if you qualify for one, you can ask a doctor today – a quick and easy way to make life on the road easier and safer.

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