As a quadriplegic who uses an electric wheelchair to get around, I see people parked illegally in accessible parking spots more times than I care to admit.
I was scrolling through my Instagram feed the other day, when I saw a video posted by Amy Van Dyken that reminded me of this ever-present issue regarding people with disabilities.
A video posted by Amy Van Dyken (@amyvandyken) on
In the video, Dyken records a video of a USPS mail truck parked in a handicapped parking spot. Unfortunately, this scene occurs all too often.
I get it, it's been a long day at work and you just need to grab a few groceries before heading home. It's only going to be a few minutes, so no one will notice if you park in the handicapped parking spot.
Wrong.
People notice and it's a big issue for those with disabilities and the drivers who actually need to use the spots legally.
These parking spaces help ensure that wheelchair users, like myself, can safely exit vehicles. When people park illegally or block the striped yellow areas near the spaces, I have to find an alternative solution.
If I'm unable to park in those spots, I often have to park towards the back of the parking lot where two spots are open and no cars are around. The lift in my wheelchair-accessible van extends out from the side door, so I need to make sure there's enough room to get out without damaging vehicles around me.
But if I do find a handicapped parking spot, that doesn't mean I'm guaranteed a smooth ride. If someone parks in the striped area after I park, I have to wait for the person to leave or pull my van out and park in another spot to get in through my lift. It has to be in two spots because a regular spot doesn't provide enough room for me to enter and exit my van.
It may not seem like much, but these parking spots do more than just provide a close spot to a building entrance. They help people with disabilities feel a sense of inclusion and acceptance and allow those who use a wheelchair to get around safely between destinations.
Even if you don't use a wheelchair, you can still help spread the word. We all have a responsibility to be courteous and understanding of the needs of others.
