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Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly in Tennessee
Introduction
If you or someone you know has a handicap placard, it's important to understand the proper way to display it. In Tennessee, there are specific guidelines that must be followed to ensure that your handicap placard is displayed correctly. This article will provide you with valuable tips and information on how to properly display your handicap placard in Tennessee. By adhering to these guidelines, you can help create a more accessible and inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities.
Tips for Displaying Your Handicap Placard Correctly in Tennessee
Understanding the Importance of Proper Display
Displaying your handicap pass correctly is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it allows law enforcement officers and parking enforcement personnel to easily identify that you have a legitimate right to park in designated handicap parking spaces. It also helps prevent misuse or abuse of handicap parking privileges, ensuring that those who genuinely need accessible parking spaces can access them.
Placing the Placard Inside the Vehicle
When it comes to displaying your handicap placard, the first step is to place it inside your vehicle. In Tennessee, it should be hung on the rearview mirror when the vehicle is parked in a designated parking space. Make sure it is visible from the front windshield so that it can be easily seen by enforcement personnel.
Avoid Obstructing the Driver's View
While it's important to hang the disability tag on the rearview mirror, it's equally important to ensure that it doesn't obstruct the driver's view. It should be placed in a way that allows the driver to have a clear line of sight while operating the vehicle. If it is obstructing the view, consider placing it on the dashboard or another visible area that doesn't interfere with the driver's visibility.
Removing the Placard When Driving
It's important to note that the disability sign should be removed from the rearview mirror while the vehicle is in motion. Leaving it hanging while driving can obstruct the driver's view and create a safety hazard. Once you have parked your vehicle in a designated parking space, you can then hang the permit again.
Proper Storage of the Placard
When the vehicle is not in use or when you're not using the handicap parking privileges, it's essential to store the disability sign properly. According to Tennessee regulations, it should be kept in a safe place within the vehicle, such as the glove compartment or another secure location. This helps prevent the placard from being lost, stolen, or damaged.
Reporting Lost or Stolen Placards
In the unfortunate event that your pass is lost or stolen, it's crucial to report it immediately. Contact your local law enforcement agency and provide them with the necessary details. They will guide you through the process of obtaining a replacement and ensure that your parking privileges are protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use my handicap pass in any vehicle I'm traveling in?
Yes, your Tennessee handicap placard is intended to be used in any vehicle in which you are traveling as a passenger or driver. However, it's important to note that the person to whom it is issued must be present in the vehicle when it is parked in a designated handicap parking space.
2. Can I lend my handicap pass to someone else?
No, lending it to someone else is strictly prohibited. It is issued to a specific individual and is non-transferable. It is against the law to allow someone who does not have a disability or a legitimate need for accessible parking to use the pass.
3. What should I do if someone is misusing a handicap parking space?
If you witness someone misusing a handicap parking space, you can report the incident to the appropriate authorities. Contact your local law enforcement agency or parking enforcement office and provide them with as much information as possible, such as the license plate number and a description of the vehicle. They will investigate the matter and take appropriate action.
4. Can I use my out-of-state handicap pass in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee recognizes out-of-state handicap passes. If you have a valid disability sign issued by another state, you can use it in Tennessee. However, it's important to familiarize yourself with the specific parking regulations of the state you are visiting to ensure compliance.
5. Can I park in a handicap parking space without a pass?
No, parking in a designated parking space without a valid permit is against the law. These spaces are reserved for individuals with disabilities who have the appropriate handicap permits. Violating these parking regulations can result in fines and penalties.
6. How long is a handicap pass valid?
In Tennessee, a permanent parking placard in TN is valid for up to five years. Temporary placards, issued for temporary disabilities, have varying expiration dates depending on the individual's medical condition. It's important to check the expiration date on your placard and renew it before it expires to ensure uninterrupted access to handicap parking spaces.
Conclusion
Properly displaying your handicap placard in Tennessee is not only a legal requirement but also an essential step towards creating a more accessible society. By following the tips provided in this article, you can ensure that you are correctly displaying your placard, protecting your parking privileges, and helping to maintain an inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities.
Remember, always store your handicap permit in a safe place, report any lost or stolen permits, and refrain from lending it to others. By respecting the rules and regulations surrounding handicap parking, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those who rely on accessible parking spaces.
