I wrote this article for publication in The Phoenix on February 10, 2006
There was a story recently in the news about a woman from New Jersey who was going around her small town and taking pictures of cars illegally parked in handicapped parking places. Apparently she is the mother of a disabled child, and just became frustrated with cars without handicapped placards or license plates parking in these special spots. So she would snap a photo of the car and license plate and take it to her local police for further action.
This story came to light because, allegedly, two of the cars involved were owned by a pair of Philadelphia Eagles football players, Donovan McNabb and Jeremiah Trotter. Both players denied wittingly knowing their cars were parked in handicapped places.
Kudos to this lady for taking some action. The police can't be everywhere. I can feel her frustration. It is one thing when all handicapped spaces are filled with viable disabled drivers or passengers. First-come, first-served...But it is quite another matter when spaces are filled by able-bodied people who just want to occupy the spots as they run in a store or whatever is their purpose.
It is hard for someone who may be disabled or elderly,especially, when the weather is bad, to wheel or walk very far. The handicapped spots are often close to buildings and ramps. Not being able to use these parking places just makes getting around so much more difficult.
So please, if you see someone illegally parked in a handicapped spot, let them know it's not only against the law but it's just not fair to a person who really can use that spot. Say something to the store manager or business owner. And if you are able-bodied and driving, please think twice before sneaking into a spot, even if it is only for a moment.
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