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Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly in South Carolina
Disability tags, also known as disability placards or parking permits, are essential for individuals with mobility impairments. These tags provide access to designated accessible parking spaces, which are typically located closer to building entrances and provide extra space for those using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids. In SC, disability tags are issued to individuals who meet specific medical criteria, and they offer valuable benefits that can make daily activities more manageable.
This article will guide you through the best practices for displaying your handicap placard in South Carolina, the legal requirements, and how to avoid common mistakes. We’ll also address frequently asked questions to clear up any confusion you might have about your disability tag usage. Whether you’re new to using a disability tag or have been using one for years, these tips will ensure you comply with state regulations and use your tag effectively.
Understanding Handicap Placards in South Carolina
Before diving into the specific tips for displaying your disability tag, it’s important to understand what disability tags are and how they function in SC.
Disability tags are issued by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) to individuals who meet the state’s criteria for limited mobility. These tags allow drivers to park in accessible parking spaces designated for people with disabilities. The goal is to make everyday life more manageable for people who may have difficulty walking long distances or accessing regular parking spaces.
The tag is intended for personal use and can be used in any vehicle in which the tag holder is a driver or passenger. The disability tag must be displayed clearly when the vehicle is parked in an accessible space, but it must be removed when the vehicle is in motion.
Types of Disability Tags in South Carolina
SC offers several types of handicap permits to meet different needs:
- Permanent Disability Tag: This is issued to individuals with permanent disabilities. It is valid for up to four years and must be renewed before expiration.
- Temporary Disability Tag: This is issued to individuals with temporary disabilities, such as those recovering from surgery or injury. These tags are valid for up to six months, and they can be renewed if necessary.
- Disabled Veteran License Plate: Veterans with a service-connected disability may qualify for a disabled veteran license plate, which provides the same parking benefits as a disability tag.
Benefits of Having a Disability Tag
The benefits of having a disability tag in SC include:
- Convenient parking in designated accessible spaces.
- Exemptions from parking fees in certain municipalities (depending on local regulations).
- Additional space for getting in and out of your vehicle, which can be particularly helpful for those using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices.
- Extended parking time limits at metered spaces in some areas.
Having a disability tag can make day-to-day activities much easier by providing closer access to stores, medical offices, and other important locations. Now that we’ve covered the basics of what disability tags are, let’s move on to the tips for displaying them correctly in SC.
Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly
Displaying your disability tag correctly is essential to avoid fines and ensure that you can use accessible parking spaces legally. Here are some important tips to help you display your South Carolina disabled permit correctly:
1. Always Hang the Placard from Your Rearview Mirror
The most important rule for displaying a disability tag is to hang it from your rearview mirror whenever your vehicle is parked in a designated accessible parking space. SC law requires the tag to be visible from the front of the vehicle, and the best way to ensure this is by hanging it in the correct position.
Ensure the tag is clearly displayed and is not blocked by any other objects, such as air fresheners, GPS mounts, or parking passes. If the tag is obstructed, parking enforcement officers may not be able to see it clearly, which could result in a ticket.
2. Only Display the Tag When Parked
One common mistake people make is leaving the disability tag hanging from the rearview mirror while driving. While this may seem convenient, it’s actually against the law to display the tag while the vehicle is in motion. SC regulations state that the disability tag should only be displayed when the vehicle is parked in a designated accessible parking spot.
Leaving the tag hanging while driving can also obstruct your view of the road, which increases the risk of accidents. To avoid this, make it a habit to remove the tag and store it in a safe place inside your vehicle whenever you’re driving.
3. Ensure the Expiration Date Is Visible
Every disability pass issued in SC has an expiration date printed on it. Whether you have a temporary or permanent pass, it’s essential that this date remains visible at all times. Parking enforcement officers will check the expiration date to verify that your tag is valid, and if they cannot see it or if it has expired, you could face fines or citations.
If your pass is damaged or the expiration date has become illegible due to wear and tear, contact the SCDMV to request a replacement before it becomes an issue.
4. Keep Your Registration Certificate Handy
Along with your disability tag, you will receive a registration certificate from the state Department of Motor Vehicles. This certificate serves as proof that your tag is legally issued and belongs to you or the person you are transporting. It’s a good idea to keep this certificate in your vehicle at all times, in case you are asked to provide proof of your eligibility for disabled parking.
In case of any misunderstandings or disputes, having your registration certificate on hand can clear up confusion quickly.
5. Use the Placard Only When the Disabled Individual Is Present
A crucial rule for disability tag usage is that it is only valid when the person for whom the tag was issued is either driving the vehicle or being transported in it. Using the disability tag without the presence of the individual with the disability is considered illegal and can result in fines, revocation of the tag, and even criminal charges in some cases.
If you’re driving a vehicle with a disability tag but the disabled individual is not with you, refrain from parking in accessible spaces, even if the tag is still valid.
6. Renew Your Tag Before It Expires
Permanent disability passes in SC are valid for four years, while temporary passes are valid for up to four months. Keeping track of the expiration date and renewing the tag before it expires is crucial to avoid parking penalties.
You can renew your pass by visiting the SCDMV website or by going to a local DMV office. Remember, if your pass has expired, it is no longer valid for use in accessible parking spaces, even if you still meet the eligibility requirements.
7. Replace Damaged or Faded Tags
Over time, your disability tag may become worn, faded, or damaged due to regular use. It’s essential that your tag remains in good condition, especially when it comes to the visibility of important information such as the placard number and expiration date. If your tag is damaged or difficult to read, you should replace it as soon as possible by contacting the SCDMV.
Driving with a damaged or illegible tag could result in parking enforcement officers issuing a citation, even if you are legally eligible to use accessible parking.
8. Park Only in Designated Accessible Spaces
While this may seem obvious, it’s important to remember that your disability tag only allows you to park in spaces designated for people with disabilities. Parking in spaces that are not marked with the international symbol of accessibility (typically a blue or white wheelchair symbol) could lead to fines or having your vehicle towed.
Additionally, be mindful of the fact that accessible parking spaces are meant for individuals who genuinely need them. Using the space unnecessarily, especially if you don’t need the proximity or extra room at that time, could deprive someone else of the ability to park closer to the entrance.
9. Do Not Lend Your Tag to Others
It’s illegal to lend your disability tag to others, even if they are also disabled or have a temporary condition. Your tag is issued specifically to you, based on your medical condition and eligibility. Allowing someone else to use your tag, even a family member, could result in penalties and the revocation of your tag.
If someone else in your household requires a disability tag, they should apply for their own through the state Department of Motor Vehicles.
10. Follow Local Parking Regulations
While your disability tag allows you to park in designated accessible spaces, it does not exempt you from following other local parking regulations. For example, you still need to adhere to time limits for parking spaces, pay any required parking fees, and avoid parking in areas that are restricted or reserved for other purposes, such as loading zones or fire lanes.
Failure to comply with general parking laws can still result in fines, even if you are using a valid disability tag.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Displaying Your Disabled Permit
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when displaying your disability tag. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
1. Forgetting to Hang the Tag
One of the most common mistakes is simply forgetting to hang the disability tag when parking in an accessible space. Without the tag visibly displayed, you could be fined even if you’re legally allowed to park there. Make it a habit to hang the tag as soon as you park.
2. Leaving the Tag Visible While Driving
Leaving your disability tag hanging from the rearview mirror while driving is not only a violation of SC law, but it’s also a safety hazard. The tag can obstruct your view and increase the risk of an accident. Always remember to take the tag down before driving.
3. Using Someone Else’s Disability Tag
Disability tags are issued to specific individuals, not to the vehicle. Using someone else’s tag, even with their permission, is illegal unless that person is present in the vehicle. Misusing a disability tag can result in steep fines and the loss of parking privileges.
4. Parking in a Space Without a Tag
Some individuals with disabilities forget to display their tag or mistakenly believe they don’t need it because they have a disabled license plate. In SC, you must display your disability tag whenever you park in an accessible space, even if you have a disabled license plate. Failure to do so can lead to a parking violation.
5. Using an Expired Tag
An expired disability tag is no longer valid, and using it can lead to fines. It’s important to monitor the expiration date of your tag and renew it well before it expires. The renewal process is relatively simple, but it’s essential to stay on top of it to avoid any disruptions in your parking privileges.
Penalties for Improper Use of a Disabled Permit in South Carolina
Improper use of a handicap placard can lead to various penalties in SC. These penalties are intended to prevent misuse and ensure that accessible parking spaces are available for those who truly need them.
Fines for Violations
If you fail to display your disability tag correctly, or if you misuse it, you could face fines. Common violations include:
- Failing to display the tag properly: This includes not hanging the tag from the rearview mirror or making it difficult to see through the windshield.
- Using an expired tag: Parking with an expired tag can lead to fines.
- Using someone else’s tag: Misusing a tag that was issued to someone else is a serious offense and can result in higher fines.
Fines for these violations can range from $100 to $200, depending on the severity of the infraction.
Revocation of Disability Parking Privileges
Repeated violations or serious misuse of a disability tag can result in the revocation of your disability parking privileges. If your tag is revoked, you may lose access to designated accessible parking spaces, making it more difficult to get around. It’s important to use your tag responsibly to avoid this outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the correct way to display a disability tag in SC?
The correct way to display a disability tag in SC is to hang it from the rearview mirror while the vehicle is parked in a designated accessible parking space. The side with the permit number and expiration date should be visible from the front windshield.
2. Can I use my disability tag in other vehicles?
Yes, disability tags in SC are issued to individuals, not vehicles. This means you can use your tag in any vehicle as long as you are either the driver or a passenger.
3. Do I need to remove my disability tag while driving?
Yes. You must remove your disability tag when driving to avoid obstructing your view. Leaving the tag hanging from the rearview mirror while driving is a safety hazard and could result in a fine.
4. What happens if I forget to display my disability tag?
If you forget to display your disability tag while parked in an accessible space, you may receive a parking ticket, even if you are legally allowed to park there. Always remember to hang your tag when parking in an accessible space.
5. How long are disability tags valid in SC?
- Permanent disability tags are valid for up to four years.
- Temporary disability tags are valid for up to six months and can be renewed once if the disability persists.
6. How do I apply for a disability tag in SC?
To apply for a disability tag in SC, you need to complete the Application for Placard and/or License Plate for People who have a Disability (SCDMV Form RG-007A). You’ll also need to provide certification from a licensed physician confirming your disability. Once completed, you can submit the form to the SCDMV, either in person or by mail.
7. Can I use my SC disability tag in other states?
Yes, SC disability tags are generally recognized in other states under reciprocity agreements. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific parking regulations of the state you’re visiting, as rules may vary slightly.
8. What should I do if my disability tag is lost or stolen?
If your disability tag is lost or stolen, you’ll need to apply for a replacement. You can do this by submitting a replacement request to the SCDMV. Be sure to report the loss or theft to local law enforcement if you suspect your tag has been stolen.
9. Can I park for free with my disability pass?
In SC, disability passes do not automatically grant free parking. However, some municipalities may offer free or reduced-cost parking for vehicles displaying a disability pass. Be sure to check local parking policies for specific information.
10. How long does it take to receive a replacement disability tag?
The time it takes to receive a replacement disability tag depends on whether you apply in person or by mail. If you visit an SCDMV office in person, you may be able to receive your replacement tag on the same day. If you apply by mail, it may take several days to process and deliver your replacement.
Conclusion
Displaying your handicap placard correctly in South Carolina is crucial to ensuring that you can continue to enjoy the benefits of accessible parking. By following the tips outlined in this guide, such as hanging the tag from the rearview mirror, removing it while driving, and using it only when the tag holder is present, you can avoid fines and penalties while making the most of your disability tag.
Remember that misuse of a disability tag, whether intentional or accidental, can result in significant consequences, including fines and the revocation of your parking privileges. By understanding the rules and regulations surrounding disability tag use in SC, you can use your tag responsibly and maintain access to the parking spaces that help you navigate your daily activities with greater ease.
