The Importance of Accessible Parking Spaces: A Deep Dive into Handicap Parking Laws

Accessible parking spaces play a pivotal role in creating a society that values inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. As we delve into the intricacies of handicap parking laws, it becomes evident that these regulations extend far beyond mere compliance—they are a testament to our commitment to fostering a world where individuals with disabilities can navigate public spaces with dignity and independence. Handicap parking laws, governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), establish a comprehensive framework encompassing design specifications, signage requirements, and the overall accessibility of parking facilities. By understanding and adhering to these laws, we contribute to the realization of a more accessible and equitable environment.

Handicap parking laws are not just about reserved spaces; they embody a broader commitment to breaking down barriers that impede individuals with disabilities. The dimensions of accessible parking spaces, the visibility of signage, and the proximity to building entrances are carefully regulated to ensure optimal accessibility. This deep dive into handicap parking laws will unravel the intricacies of these regulations, shedding light on the considerations that contribute to the creation of an inclusive parking landscape. From the distinctive blue and white accessibility symbol to the dimensions of parking spaces designed to accommodate wheelchair users, each aspect reflects a dedication to meeting the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities.

Accessible Parking Regulations in the U.S.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) meticulously defines accessible parking regulations in the United States, aiming to ensure equitable access for individuals with disabilities. These regulations encompass various elements crucial for creating an inclusive parking environment. Designated accessible parking spaces must meet specific dimensions, providing ample room for wheelchair users to maneuver safely. The distinctive blue and white accessibility symbol, prominently featured on signage, aids in easily identifying these designated spaces.

Proximity to building entrances is another crucial consideration, facilitating convenient access for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, ADA regulations mandate the inclusion of access aisles next to parking spaces, ensuring sufficient room for deploying wheelchair ramps and enabling seamless transitions.

Businesses, municipalities, and property owners play a pivotal role in adhering to and upholding these regulations. Regular inspections, proper signage, and maintenance of accessibility features contribute to the overall effectiveness of these regulations. By embracing and implementing accessible parking regulations, we collectively foster an environment that values diversity, respects the rights of individuals with disabilities, and promotes universal accessibility in public spaces. Compliance with these regulations is not just a legal requirement but a testament to our commitment to creating a society where everyone can navigate with dignity and independence.

Handicap Parking Laws in the U.S.

Handicap parking laws in the United States, governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), establish a comprehensive framework to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to parking facilities. These laws cover various aspects, including the design, signage, and allocation of accessible parking spaces.

One fundamental aspect of handicap parking laws is the specific dimensions required for accessible parking spaces. These dimensions are carefully defined to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, providing adequate space for wheelchair users to transfer to and from vehicles safely. The distinctive blue and white accessibility symbol on the signage helps identify these designated spaces easily.

Image by Jakub Pabis on Unsplash

ADA regulations also dictate the proximity of accessible parking spaces to building entrances, aiming to facilitate convenient access for individuals with disabilities. Access aisles adjacent to parking spaces are mandated to ensure additional space for deploying wheelchair ramps, promoting seamless mobility.

Enforcement of handicap parking laws is crucial to maintaining accessibility and preventing unauthorized use of designated spaces. Violations can result in fines or legal consequences, emphasizing the significance of adherence to these regulations. Overall, handicap parking laws create an inclusive environment that respects and addresses the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities, fostering a society that values universal accessibility and equal opportunities for all.

What are ADA-compliant parking spaces?

ADA-compliant parking spaces adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure equal access and accommodation for individuals with disabilities. These parking spaces are designed to meet specific standards, encompassing dimensions, signage, and proximity to building entrances.

One key aspect of ADA-compliant parking spaces is their size. The designated dimensions provide sufficient space for individuals with mobility challenges, particularly those using wheelchairs, to transfer to and from vehicles comfortably. The universally recognizable blue and white accessibility symbol featured on signage aids in easily identifying these specially designated spaces.

The ADA regulations also emphasize the proximity of accessible parking spaces to building entrances. This strategic placement ensures that individuals with disabilities can access facilities conveniently and without unnecessary barriers. Access aisles adjacent to parking spaces are another essential feature, allowing for the deployment of wheelchair ramps and supporting seamless mobility.

ADA-compliant parking spaces contribute significantly to creating an inclusive environment by upholding accessibility principles, equal opportunities, and respect for the rights of individuals with disabilities. Businesses, municipalities, and property owners play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with these standards, fostering a society that values diversity and prioritizes the needs of all its members.

What are Disabled parking permits?

Disabled parking permits, often called handicap parking permits or placards, are official documents issued to individuals with disabilities to grant them specific parking privileges. These permits enable holders to access designated parking spaces, usually marked with the recognizable blue and white accessibility symbol, ensuring convenient and barrier-free parking.

The criteria for obtaining a disabled parking permit vary by jurisdiction but generally include individuals with mobility impairments, visual impairments, or certain medical conditions that affect their ability to walk or navigate parking lots easily. The permits come in the form of placards or license plates and must be visibly displayed when parking in designated spaces.

Disabled parking permits play a crucial role in promoting accessibility and inclusivity. They allow individuals with disabilities to enjoy equal access to public facilities and services. Proper use and enforcement of these permits create a more equitable and accommodating environment for those with diverse mobility needs.

What is Universal accessibility in parking?

Universal accessibility in parking refers to the design and implementation of parking facilities that cater to the diverse needs of all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities. It emphasizes creating inclusive, accommodating, and welcoming environments for everyone, including those with disabilities. In the context of parking, universal accessibility involves features that go beyond standard compliance and strive to address a broad spectrum of needs.

This concept includes, but is not limited to, the proper design and allocation of accessible parking spaces with dimensions suitable for wheelchair users, clear signage with universally recognizable symbols, proximity to building entrances, and access aisles that facilitate easy transfers for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, universal accessibility may extend to features such as ramps, curb cuts, and pathways that enhance overall navigation within parking areas.

By adopting universal accessibility principles in parking design, businesses, municipalities, and property owners contribute to creating an environment that values diversity, promotes equal opportunities, and respects the rights of individuals with varying abilities. Universal accessibility ensures that public spaces are compliant with regulations and actively strive to eliminate barriers, fostering a society where everyone can navigate freely and independently.

What you need to know about handicap parking enforcement

Handicap parking enforcement is critical to ensuring that designated accessible spaces are used appropriately and that the rights of individuals with disabilities are respected. Enforcement typically falls under the jurisdiction of local law enforcement agencies or parking authorities, and understanding the key aspects is crucial for maintaining accessibility.

Enforcement involves monitoring parking spaces designated for individuals with disabilities to prevent unauthorized use. Violations may include parking without a valid disabled parking permit, using someone else’s permit, or parking in designated spaces without proper authorization. Penalties for violations can range from fines to towing, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense.

Efficient enforcement requires clear signage designating accessible spaces, routine inspections, and public awareness campaigns to educate the community on the importance of adhering to handicap parking regulations. Some jurisdictions also use technology, such as license plate recognition systems, to enhance enforcement efforts.

By prioritizing handicap parking enforcement, communities uphold the principles of accessibility, inclusivity, and equal access for individuals with disabilities. Regular monitoring and enforcement create an environment where accessible parking spaces serve their intended purpose, ensuring that those who genuinely need them can enjoy equal access to public facilities and services.

Legal requirements for handicap parking are essential to ensure that designated accessible parking areas comply with regulations and provide inclusive facilities for individuals with disabilities. These requirements encompass several key elements, including handicap parking signage and specific space dimensions.

One crucial aspect is the clear designation of accessible parking areas through proper signage. Handicap parking signage is characterized by the distinctive blue and white accessibility symbol, making it easily recognizable. Signage must be prominently displayed to inform drivers of the reserved nature of the parking spaces.

Handicap parking space dimensions are specified to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities, particularly those using wheelchairs or mobility aids. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines precise dimensions for these spaces, considering factors like aisle width and proximity to entrances.

Image by Jakub Pabis on Unsplash

Ensuring inclusive parking facilities involves adhering to these dimensions and providing access aisles adjacent to parking spaces. Access aisles serve as buffer zones, enabling individuals to deploy wheelchair ramps or other mobility aids without obstruction.

Legal requirements also dictate the number of accessible parking spaces based on a facility’s total parking capacity. This ensures that there are an adequate and proportionate number of designated spaces available.

Enforcement of these legal requirements is typically carried out by local law enforcement or parking authorities. Regular inspections and public awareness campaigns contribute to compliance, emphasizing the importance of respecting handicap parking regulations.

By strictly adhering to these legal requirements, communities and businesses create environments prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility. Designated accessible parking areas, with proper signage and dimensions, play a crucial role in providing equitable access for individuals with disabilities, fostering a society where everyone can navigate public spaces with dignity and independence.

The Importance of ADA Guidelines

The Importance of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines in parking lot design is paramount to ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities and upholding their rights in parking areas. ADA guidelines establish comprehensive standards for creating inclusive environments, particularly in spaces where parking is essential for accessing public facilities and services.

Parking lot design for inclusivity involves incorporating features that address the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. This includes the provision of designated accessible parking spaces with appropriate dimensions, clear signage featuring the recognizable blue and white accessibility symbol, and access aisles to facilitate the deployment of mobility aids like wheelchairs.

ADA guidelines emphasize the rights of individuals with disabilities to have equal access to public spaces, including parking areas. By adhering to these guidelines, businesses, municipalities, and property owners contribute to fostering a society that values diversity and ensures equitable opportunities for all.

Designing parking lots in compliance with ADA guidelines meets legal requirements and reflects a commitment to creating environments that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in violations and legal consequences.

Furthermore, parking lot design in accordance with ADA guidelines is an essential aspect of social responsibility. It demonstrates a commitment to respecting the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities, promoting independence and equal access to public spaces. Adherence to ADA guidelines in parking lot design reflects a collective effort to build a society where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can navigate public areas with ease and confidence.

The importance of accessible parking spaces goes beyond legal compliance; it reflects our collective responsibility to create a world where everyone can participate fully in community life regardless of ability. Handicap parking laws provide a framework for designing parking facilities that prioritize accessibility, promoting equal opportunities for mobility and engagement. As we navigate the complexities of these laws, let us recognize the profound impact they have on the lives of individuals with disabilities. By upholding and advocating for accessible parking spaces, we contribute to a society that embraces diversity, respects the rights of all its members, and fosters an inclusive environment where everyone can navigate with ease and dignity.

How Do You Renew Your Colorado Handicap Parking Placard Online?

Residents of Colorado who suffer from reduced mobility which affects their ability to park and drive should consider applying for a Colorado disabled parking permit. A disabled parking permit allows the driver to park in specially-designed and well-located parking spaces, avoiding unnecessary stress behind the wheel.

Colorado has a well-run disabled parking program, and users are welcome to avail of their services through the online system. This system makes managing your disabled parking permit more convenient, as it reduces your need to travel to and from appointments or application centers in-person. In this blog, we will be discussing everything you need to know about CO disabled parking permit renewal, including how to do so online. 

Image by Amit Bansal on Unsplash: How do I renew my disabled parking permit in Colorado? Read on to find out.

How Do You Apply For A Disabled Parking Permit In Colorado?

Before we delve into the renewal process, it is important to recap on how to get your first disabled parking permit in Colorado. To apply for your first disabled parking permit in Colorado, you need to do the following things:

  1. Complete a consultation with a licensed Colorado physician who can certify your disability (and complete this section of the application form). Dr Handicap can help you to arrange this consultation virtually, through telemedicine. 
  2. Apply using Colorado’s online system, along with any other documents or information required. Alternatively, you can complete the ‘Person with Disabilities Parking Privileges Application’ form which can be found online. You will need to submit this in person at your local County Motor Vehicle Office (or potentially via post, please contact the office to ensure this is the case at the time of your application).
  3. Receive your placard – only after you have the physical permit in hand can you begin to use disabled parking places. Please do not occupy these spaces prior to receiving your placard, even if your application is being processed. 

How Do You Renew Your Colorado Handicap Parking Placard Online?

Once you have your placard, it is important to keep an eye on its expiry date. Renewing it with plenty of time to spare ensures you will always have a valid placard, and will not run into trouble. 

Can you renew a handicap placard online in Colorado? Yes, you can! To renew your Colorado disabled parking permit online, you can simply use the online system and request a replacement of your disabled parking placard. According to the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles; “Persons with Disabilities Placards may be replaced to the original applicant with the same expiration date as the originally issued placard without a new verification from a medical professional”.

However, if you are replacing your placard as it has been lost, stolen, or damaged (and your placard is nowhere near the expiry date), you must ensure that you surrender the damaged placard for replacement. You must also give a copy of the DR 2574 Registration Receipt for the placard you are looking to replace, to validate your replacement request. Renewals are free of charge for placards, but plates incur a fee.

Image by Darwin Vegher on Unsplash: What do I do with an expired handicap placard in Colorado?

How Do I Renew My Disabled Parking Permit In Colorado?

In the above section, we have gone through the requirements and the process for renewing a Colorado disabled parking permit. Luckily, Colorado’s online system makes the process of renewing your permit more streamlined and efficient than in some other states.

Now that we have discussed the basics of applying and renewing a Colorado disabled parking permit, an important thing to point out is that you may or may not require re-certification from a medical professional upon renewal. The rules for this vary depending on whether you have a permanent, temporary, extended, or short-term permit.

  • Permanent placards require renewal every three years. However, you require medical certification only initially, and then every third renewal – so each nine years. Self-certification suffices for the first and second time you renew.
  • Extended placards require re-certification every three years – including the initial application and the first time you renew. 
  • Temporary placards work the same way as extended placards, and you will need an initial medical certification as well as an additional one with every renewal. Self-certification does not apply for either temporary or extended placards.
  • Short-term placards last up to ninety days typically, and require medical certification initially as well as after this ninety-day period. These can usually be renewed only once.

Ensuring you are aware of the renewal requirements for the type of placard that you have means that the process is likely to go much more smoothly and be stress-free. The type of placard you receive depends upon your medical condition – therefore, it is important to speak to a medical professional upon renewal in case there have been any changes to your condition since the first time you were granted a permit. We hope that the information in this article helps you to navigate the online renewals process when the time comes to renew your Colorado handicap parking permit. 

Featured image by Mike Scheid on Unsplash

The Complete Guide To How You Can Get An Online Disabled Parking Permit In New York

New York State is home to over 20 million people and contains the nation’s most iconic, densely-packed, loved (and sometimes loathed!) urban metropolis: New York City. The Empire State is a very popular travel destination, attracting millions of people every year for business and pleasure. 

New York’s disabled parking infrastructure plays a crucial role in improving accessibility for both residents and visitors to the state. The New York disabled parking program does a good job of improving quality-of-life and promoting equality for people who are disabled and have mobility issues. 

If you are a disabled person who lives in New York, it’s important that you make sure you have access to the New York disabled parking program. Today, we will tell you how to do just that in the complete guide to how you can get an online disabled parking permit in New York. 

Below we will answer all of the important questions about how to get a disabled parking permit in New York, such as … What types of disabled parking permits are available in New York? Who can legally issue a New York disabled parking permit? Who qualifies for handicap parking in NY? How long does it take to get a handicap placard in NY? And, how do I get a handicap parking permit in NY?

Why Get An Online Disabled Parking Permit In New York?

There are several reasons to get an online disabled parking permit in New York:

  • Disabled permits enable free parking in any designated ‘Disabled’ parking space.
  • Disabled permits enable improved access to public and private buildings, amenities, residences and attractions.
  • Disabled permits enable their holders to apply for residents disabled parking bays to be installed near their home. (New York City does not set aside reserved spaces on its streets for persons with disabilities. Reserved parking spaces are only available off-street, in parking lots.)
  • Disabled permits enable their holders to use disabled parking infrastructure in other US states and several foreign jurisdictions.

Applying for your disabled parking permit online in New York is advantageous because:

  • Applying online is time efficient.
  • The online application process is simple to navigate and user-friendly.
  • Medical certification can be arranged more quickly online using an online telemedicine clinic. 
Image by noelsch on Pixabay: How much is a handicap placard in NY?

How You Can Get An Online Disabled Parking Permit In New York

The process of getting your New York handicap parking permit online is straight-forward and simple. To get your online disabled parking permit in New York, you must first have a medical consultation at an online telemedicine clinic. A state-licensed medical professional will verify your suitability for disabled parking and then email you a signed copy of a New York disabled parking permit application form. 

You must then submit the completed application to either the NYC Department of Transportation, Nassau County Office of the Physically Challenged, or your nearest issuing agent, depending on where you live in New York State.

What Types Of Disabled Parking Permits Are Available In New York?

There are several different types of disabled parking permits available in New York. The type of permit you require will depend on what type of disability you have and whether you need on-street parking in New York City. The following types of disabled parking permits are available in New York:

  • New York State Permanent disabled parking permit
  • New York State Temporary disabled parking permit
  • New York State Organization disabled parking permit
  • Disabled Veterans license plate
  • New York City Parking Permits for People with Disabilities (NYC PPPD)

Who Can Legally Issue A New York State Disabled Parking Permit?

The New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) runs the disabled parking program in New York. However, the DMV does not issue New York disabled parking permits. So do not send your application to the DMV.

The Parking Permits for People with Disabilities Unit of the NYC Department of Transport issues disabled parking permits in New York City. In most other areas of New York State, city, town or village clerks, and police departments, issue disabled parking permits.

Who Qualifies For Handicap Parking In NY?

If you are a resident of New York and you are permanently or temporarily disabled to the extent that your mobility is severely limited you will qualify for a New York disabled parking permit. Organizations that transport disabled people as well as primary caregivers for disabled people also qualify for disabled parking. 

You do not need to drive your own vehicle to get a handicap parking permit. Non-drivers such as non-vehicle-owning adults, children and legally blind people can get a handicap parking permit to use when they travel in a vehicle that is not their own.

How Do I Get A Handicap Parking Permit In NY?

To get an online disabled parking permit in New York follow these simple steps:

  1. Arrange an online consultation with a state-licensed medical professional. During the consultation the medical professional will verify your suitability for disabled parking in New York. This consultation can be arranged through an online telemedicine clinic. Once your suitability is verified the medical professional will email you a certified application form.
  1. Complete the application form and submit it to your local disabled parking permit issuing agent. Which issuing agent you submit your application to will depend on where in New York you live. (If you are a resident of New York City you must also submit a copy of your driver license or non-driver ID).

If you live in New York City you must submit your application to:

NYC Department of Transportation, Permits and Customer Service
30-30 Thomson Avenue, 2nd Floor
Long Island City, New York 11101-3045

If you reside in Nassau County you must submit to the Nassau County Office of the Physically Challenged.

All other New York state residents need to contact their local city, town, or village hall to find out where they should submit their application.

Image by Pexels on Pixabay: How do I get a handicap parking permit in NY?

What Are The Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Permit In New York?

To qualify for a Permanent disabled parking permit in New York a person must be permanently disabled due to one or more of the following impairments, disabilities or conditions:

  • Portable oxygen tank usage
  • Legal blindness
  • Limited or no use of one or both legs
  • Unable to walk 200 feet without stopping
  • Neuromuscular dysfunction that severely limits mobility
  • Class III or IV cardiac condition according to American Heart Association standards
  • Severely limited mobility due to an arthritic, neurological or orthopedic condition 
  • Lung disease to such an extent that forced (respiratory) expiratory volume for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter, or the arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty mm/hg of room air at rest 
  • Any physical or mental impairment or condition not listed above which constitutes an equal degree of disability, and which imposes unusual hardship in the use of public transportation and prevents the person from getting around without great difficulty.

To qualify for a Temporary disabled parking permit in New York a person must be temporarily unable to ambulate without the aid of an assisting device such as a brace, cane, crutch, prosthetic device, another person, wheelchair or walker.

Who Can Certify An Application For Disabled Parking In New York?

All applications for a disabled parking permit in New York must be certified by a medical professional. The easiest way to arrange a medical consultation to get certification is to go to an online telemedicine clinic and set up a video consultation. 

The following types of medical professionals are qualified to certify an application for disabled parking in New York:

  • Medical doctor
  • Doctor of osteopathy
  • Physician assistant
  • Nurse practitioner
  • Doctor of podiatric medicine
  • Optometrist

How Much Is A Handicap Placard In NY?

  • New York Permanent and Temporary disabled parking placards are free. 
  • New York disabled parking license plates cost $25.

What Type Of Identification Is Required When Applying For New York Disabled Parking?

You are not required to have a NYS DMV-issued driver license or non-driver ID in order to get a disabled parking permit unless you live in New York City. Residents of New York City cannot get a disabled parking permit unless they include a copy of their NYS DMV-issued driver license or a non-driver ID card in their application.

How Do I Get A Disabled License Plate In New York?

You can get a disabled license plate in New York if you have a disability that is permanent and you own your own vehicle. You can get disabled plates at any Motor Vehicles office. Bring your current vehicle plates, and a completed application form or, if you have one, your Permanent (blue) disabled parking placard. 

Disabled license plates cost $25.00. If this transaction is done at any time other than when you renew your vehicle registration, you will have to pay an additional $3.75 transaction fee.

Disabled Veterans license plates are also available to people whose disabilities are military service related.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Handicap Placard In NY?

The process of applying for an online New York disabled parking permit can be completed in a few hours. Once the application has been submitted it will usually be processed within ten working days.

How To Renew A New York Disabled Parking Permit:

  • Permanent New York disabled parking placards expire on the date indicated on the permit. Temporary placards expire after 6 months. License plates must be renewed when the vehicle registration is due for renewal.
  • To renew your Permanent parking permit you must submit an application to your local issuing agent. New medical certification is not required.
  • Temporary New York disabled parking placards cannot be renewed. If you still require the use of disabled parking after your Temporary placard expires, you must apply for a new Temporary permit with new medical certification. 

Where Are New York Disabled Parking Permits Valid?

Can I use my NY handicap placard in another state? Yes, you can use your New York disabled permit in all other US states.

New York disabled parking permits are recognized in the following jurisdictions:

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

NYC PPPD permits are only recognized in New York City.

Are Out-Of-State Disabled Parking Permits Valid In New York?

Yes, out-of-state disabled parking permits are valid in New York. Holders of out-of-state permits are entitled to park in designated disabled parking spaces across New York. However, to be entitled to park in on-street spaces In New York City for free, a visitor must apply for an NYC PPPD permit.

Handicap Parking Permit New York: Rules And Regulations

  • New York disabled parking permit holders may park for free in any designated ‘Disabled’ space in New York State for unlimited time.
  • New York City PPPD holders may park in on-street, metered spaces in NYC for free.
  • It is illegal for permit-holders to park in striped access aisles or any area that is designated ‘No Parking’.
  • Permit-holders must always use their own disabled parking permit. Use of a permit that is in somebody else’s name is illegal.
  • Permits must be hung from the rear-view mirror when the vehicle is parked. 
  • Permits must be stowed away when the vehicle is in motion.

Disabled Parking In New York City

New York disabled parking permits entitle their holder to park in any designated ‘disabled’ parking space in New York City (marked with the International Symbol of Access). However, these designated ‘disabled’ parking spaces are located in parking lots only. New York City does not have on-street disabled parking. To park on-street you must also apply for an NYC PPPD permit. A PPPD permit entitles its holder to park in:

  • Any metered parking space without charge
  • Any ‘No Parking’ space, regardless of hours, including street cleaning regulations
  • Any space designated for use by Authorized Vehicles
  • Any space designated ‘No Standing Except Trucks Loading/Unloading’ or ‘Truck Loading Only’

What Are The Fines For Misuse Of New York Disabled Parking Infrastructure?

  • Parking illegally in disabled parking spaces in New York can result in a fine of $50 to $75 for a first offense, and $75 to $150 for a second offense that is committed within two years. Municipalities can choose to impose higher fines. 
  • Any person who abuses or misuses any disabled parking permit or license plates can have the permit or plates revoked.
  • Making a false statement or providing false information on an application for a disabled parking permit or license plates is punishable by a fine of $250 – $1,000, imprisonment, or both.

This has been our complete guide to how you can get an online disabled parking permit in New York. If you have not yet gotten your New York disabled parking permit online go to the Dr. Handicap app and get the application process underway.

Featured image by wiggijo on Pixabay

Qualifying Conditions For A Disabled Parking Placard In New Mexico

Are you a resident of New Mexico with a disability? Do you frequently drive, and find it difficult to find a suitable parking space for your vehicle? Or, perhaps you are just curious as to what disabilities qualify for disabled parking in New Mexico? At Dr Handicap, we are here to answer all your disabled parking related queries, so strap in and let us help you get to grips with the New Mexico disabled parking laws.

A disabled parking placard will allow you to occupy disabled parking spaces at many destinations in the state, which can be a huge relief for disabled drivers. Knowing that you will be able to access suitable parking spaces wherever you are going can ensure you feel more comfortable and relaxed on any journey you undertake. You will no longer need to walk long distances to the entrance of the store, for example, and if you need to use a wheelchair ramp, there are reserved aisles for this purpose, so you have plenty of space.

The benefits of a disabled parking permit are clear – but what are the qualifying conditions for a disabled parking permit in New Mexico?

Who Qualifies For Disabled Parking In New Mexico?

Image by Raban Haaijk on Unsplash: What are the New Mexico disabled parking laws?

According to the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, the following medical conditions make you eligible for a permit and you may apply for a permit if you:

  • cannot walk 100 feet without stopping to rest
  • cannot walk without the use of a brace, cane or crutch or without assistance from another person, a prosthetic device, a wheelchair or other assistive device
  • are restricted by lung disease to such an extent that your forced respiratory volume, when exhaling for one second, when measured by spirometry, is less than one liter or the arterial oxygen tension is less than sixty millimeters on room air at rest
  • use portable oxygen
  • have a severe cardiac condition
  • are so severely limited in the ability to walk due to an arthritic, neurologic or orthopedic condition that you cannot ascend or descend more than 10 stair steps

One important distinction to make when it comes to New Mexico parking permits is the difference between permanent and temporary placards. If you suffer from one of the above conditions on a long-term basis and are unlikely to recover in future, the physician will most likely promote you as a candidate for a permanent placard.

If your condition is short-term or requires future evaluation to see if it has improved, you may receive a temporary placard. A temporary placard can last for up to 12 months, and the physician will decide how long you should have your temporary permit for when they add their certification to your application form.

If your condition does not change prior to the expiration of your placard you can apply for a new permit, but you will require re-certification from the physician in order to prove that your condition has not improved. This can be done using the same form as for your original application.

What Disabilities Qualify For Disabled Parking In New Mexico?

As you can see, most qualifying conditions are those which severely restrict the individual’s mobility. However, if you have a condition which impacts your ability to drive and park, it may be worth discussing these with a licensed medical physician, who could use their expertise to evaluate whether you may still be eligible for a permit. It is worth recognizing that many serious medical conditions are invisible, and just because your condition or illness is not visible all of the time does not mean you don’t qualify. Rules also vary on a state-by-state basis, so it is important to do your research prior to applying to make sure you are familiar with the regulations surrounding disabled parking in your state. 

How Do I Get A Handicap Placard In New Mexico?

Image by Steven HWG on Unsplash: If you suffer from reduced mobility, you should consider applying for a New Mexico disabled parking permit!

To apply for your New Mexico disabled parking placard, you need to follow these steps:

  1. Complete your online consultation with a licensed New Mexico physician with the help of Dr Handicap.
  2. Complete the form ‘Application For Certificate Of Eligibility For Parking Placard’, including your physician’s certification.
  3. Apply for your permit in-person at any New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division, using your completed form and bringing your ID.
  4. Receive your placard. You are now free to legally occupy disabled parking spaces in New Mexico (but please remember to always ensure you display your placard correctly, in such a way that it is easily seen by parking attendants to avoid any issues).
  5. Ensure you renew your placard prior to its expiration, so that you can continue to use disabled parking spaces without any hassle.

Featured image by Joonyeop Baek on unsplash: How to apply for a handicap placard in New Mexico

Handicap Parking As An Employee: All You Need To Know

Parking is often a perk of employment. In many cases, employees are provided with a place to park while they’re on the job. But what does this mean if you’re disabled?

Handicap parking as an employee is something protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Still, many people have questions about how they should be accommodated by their employer and what types of things must be provided.

Here’s what you need to know about employers accommodating people with disabilities as it relates to providing parking for employees while they’re on the job.

Do Employers Have To Provide Parking For Disabled Employees?

Any business with more than 15 employees has to abide by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) when it comes to accommodating disabilities. Under the ADA, there are specific requirements they must follow – including parking. Of course, some factors influence this, such as whether or not the employer is in control of the parking lot and whether or not providing you with parking falls into the category of reasonable accommodation if you have a disability.

disabled parking signage
Image by Possessed Photography on Unsplash: Handicap parking as an employee can get complicated. Talk to your employer for help.

If your employer owns and operates the parking lot you park in, and you are disabled, there are certain standards they must operate under to ensure they are in compliance with the ADA. For example, they must have a certain quantity of parking spaces in the lot accessible for employees with disabilities, and must provide accessible parking spaces if it’s a reasonable accommodation for someone with a disability that they employ.

If an employer does not own a parking lot and therefore does not offer parking as a perk to its employees, under the ADA they generally do not have to provide accessible parking to employees with disabilities. Whatever entity does control the parking where employees park is generally responsible for providing accessible parking under the ADA.

What Percentage of Parking Should Be Disabled?

There are standards set forth by the ADA as to how many accessible parking spaces must be in a lot. The number of accessible spaces is determined by the full number of spaces in the parking lot. For example, a parking lot with up to 25 parking spaces must have at least one accessible van space. A lot with between 25 and 50 spaces must have at least one standard accessible space and one accessible space for a van. The number goes all the way up to lots that have 300 total spaces, of which at least seven must be accessible.

In addition to the overall number of spots, these lots must also provide an access aisle to an accessible route – i.e. one that can provide an unobstructed and continuous route to the facility the parking lot serves.

What If There Aren’t Enough Accessible Parking Spaces?

In some circumstances, there may be more employees needing disabled parking than there are designated accessible spots in the lot. When this happens, what do you do?

Employers have to take into consideration what each employee needs to determine if accessible parking is really an accommodation they require. If it places undue hardship on the employer, the ADA does allow them to turn down a request for accommodations.

disabled parking spots with blue lines
mage by Robert Ruggiero on Unsplash: Accommodating employees with disabilities is guaranteed by the law, but whether that includes parking depends on a few factors.

Ultimately, it’s up to the employer to define what a reasonable accommodation for a disability is when it comes to work. If they do not provide parking, then they may be able to come up with alternatives that provide designated or accessible parking to allow the employee with a disability to continue their employment.

It’s important to also understand that even if you have a disabled parking placard, an employer who does not provide parking as a perk of employment does not have to automatically provide parking for you, unless it can be negotiated as part of what is considered a reasonable accommodation under the ADA.

You have rights as a disabled person to be able to access parking, but the ins and outs of the laws that govern this type of thing can be a bit tricky. Your best bet is to discuss your accommodations with your employer to decide what solution best fits everyone involved.

Featured image by Josh Sorenson on Pexels