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Explore Some Things You Should Know About Disabled Parking If You’re a Wheelchair user
What are some of the things you need to know about disabled parking if you are a wheelchair user? Millions of Americans make use of a wheelchair at one point or another in their lifetime. Some are long-term users, while others will only need to spend a few weeks in one owing to temporary disability.
When you know how to park when disabled and learning about your disabled parking rights is quite essential. Most wheelchair users are capable of driving, and this is all made possible by the vast range of vehicle adaptations for wheelchair-using drivers.
Technology has also contributed towards making driving a lot easier for all wheelchair users. When you are in a wheelchair and using disabled parking, there are several considerations that you should keep in mind.
The permit you should apply for is also essential as there are different types and various regulations concerning using these spaces. Getting in and out of your vehicle safely is also crucial, and you should also stay updated about the technology that you can use as a wheelchair user.
The application process is also essential, and you should learn all you can about it to make your application easier. Read on to learn about the seven essential things you should know about handicap parking when a wheelchair user.
1. A Wide Range of Injuries Can Necessitate Wheelchair Usage
There are many reasons people need to use wheelchairs. Some are disabled for life, while others will only use them for a limited period. Many disabled parking permit-holders will often use a wheelchair.
This is a condition for qualification in itself and can get you a disabled parking permit. Some of the reasons for using a wheelchair include:-
- Arthritis
- Amputation
- Lung disease
- Cardiovascular disease
- Neurological disease
- Orthopedic conditions
2. Types of Disabled Parking Permits Available
There are different types of disabled parking permits available for wheelchair users. This usually varies depending on the state, but all states have the following types of disabled parking permits:-
- Permanent disabled parking placard or license plate: For people with a long-term disability.
- Temporary disabled parking placard: For the people whose disability is short-term. People with broken bones and temporary injuries fall into this category. Pregnant people might also be part of the category if they use a wheelchair to move around.
- Disabled veterans license plates: For the people whose disability is related to service in the military
- Organizational placards and plates: For the organizations tasked with transporting disabled people.
3. The ADA Regulates Wheelchair Accessible Parking Spaces
The ADA covers all the rules and regulations governing universal access to parking spaces. Some of the rules that the authority has stipulated include:-
- There has to be a given number of disabled spaces in any parking facility
- Medical facilities are required to have an additional number of disabled parking spaces
- All disabled spaces have to be connected to the shortest route to facilities and buildings that they serve
- All the spaces must be eight feet wide, and spaces accessed by vans must be 11 feet wide. The aisles for both types of spaces need to be at least five feet wide.
- The universal access symbol must be used to mark all disabled spaces.
4. It’s Important to Know How to Enter and Sit Safely in your Vehicle
As a wheelchair driver, it is essential always to be careful as you enter and exit your vehicle. Some of the crucial facts and recommendations that you should keep in mind include:-
- Ensure that you have a seat designed for maximum crash safety.
- If there is a need to stay in your wheelchair, ensure that it is a WCI9-compliant wheelchair
- Always keep your seatbelt correctly positioned.
- Anchor your wheelchair to safety whenever it is in the vehicle or van. A four-point tie-down system is usually recommended to keep your wheelchair securely attached to your van for safety and comfort when you are on the move.
5. Vehicle Adaptations that Make the Life of a Disabled Driver Easier
The adaptations and modifications that can be made to wheelchair users’ vehicles are constantly improving. Some of the essential adaptations include:-
- Hand controls
- Adaptive electronic controls
- Wheelchair ramps and lifts
- Raised roofs and lowered floors
- Steering wheel extensions
- Transfer Seats
6. Smartphone Disabled Parking Apps to Enable you Find Parking
Several apps have been designed to make your life easier as a wheelchair user. Whenever you are looking for disabled parking, these apps will ensure that you can find the space you need and get the parking space without moving around or driving much.
As such, you will be able to save on money, fuel, and time when you are looking for a disabled parking space to park your van or vehicle in.
One example of a helpful app that will enable you to find wheelchair-accessible parking and restrooms in your vicinity quickly is Wheelmate.
The app is designed to get you the closest restrooms and parking spaces suited to your need based on your current locations. They will use your existing site and your GPS data to retrieve all the locations close to you. This way, you will not need to drive around aimlessly whenever you look for a disabled parking space.
7. It is Very Easy to Apply for Disabled Parking
When you are in a wheelchair, it is straightforward to apply for a handicapped parking permit. All you need to do is visit HandicapMD and initiate an online consultation with a doctor.
The doctor will verify your disability and provide recommendations for the best type of disabled parking permit that will be well suited to your personal needs.
In addition to this recommendation, the doctor will also write up a letter of recommendation to ensure that you have the disabled parking permit in a matter of weeks. The letter will streamline the application process and ensure that you do not have any challenges getting the permit. Do you now understand the things you should know about disabled parking if you are a wheelchair user?
References
1. https://www.ada.gov/
2. https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/handicap-parking
3. https://dmv.ny.gov/forms/mv6641.pdf
