Most people think 'disabled parking abuse' only occurs when a vehicle parks without proper license plates or a disabled placard.
An equally important and common type of violation is “blocking”: when a vehicle — even one with proper plates or a placard — obstructs an architectural improvement designed to aid people with disabilities. These improvements include ramps, curb cuts and access pathways.
Below are a few examples of blocking violations. When in doubt, please report and we will let you know!
Wheelchair ramp zones
- The protected zone between accessible parking spots is there for wheelchair ramps
- Parking anywhere in this protected zone prevents people with disabilities from getting in and out of their vehicles
- Even a small moped can prevent someone from accessing their vehicle
- Any vehicle — even one with a proper plate or placard — parking in these protected zones should be reported
Protected pathways
- The hashed marks between accessible parking and a building are there to protect individuals with disabilities from traffic flow
- Often individuals in wheelchairs are not seen by moving vehicles
- Any vehicle (including motorcycles) which obstruct protected pathways should be reported
Encroachment
- When a vehicle parks partially in an accessible parking spot, it prevents a person with a disability from parking
- Any vehicle encroaching into an accessible parking spot should be reported
