“What would your course of action be if you saw a healthy, #able-bodied individual get out of a vehicle that they just parked in a #handicapped #parking space?”
“A number of people close to me have invisible #disabilities. They look healthy and able-bodied, but they’re really not. Their conditions are just as real and disabling as those of anyone who needs a #cane, a #walker, or a #wheelchair to get around. And their #physicians agree, which is why they’re authorized to park in handicapped spaces. Unless you have the appropriate #medical training and have conducted a thorough examination, you have no grounds to dispute this.
“So if your course of action is to challenge them, shout at them, threaten them, or demand that they prove to your satisfaction that they’re “really” disabled … my healthy, able-bodied course of action will be to introduce you to what #disability feels like, up close and personal. That process won’t be fun for you, but you’ll have a much greater understanding afterward, for whatever remains of your miserable life.”
Usually I try really hard to avoid being Internet Tough Guy, but there are times it’s the only possible response. Speak the language your audience understands.
@LouisIngenthron, yes, that’s a fair distinction. Fact is, if you don’t have the placard or license plate, you’re not allowed to park there even if you really need to.
But I’m almost sure that’s not what the original poster meant. Everyone I know who has a handicapped hang tag but doesn’t always use some kind of mobility device—and even some who do!—has been challenged by some asshole who thought it was their job to play handicapped parking police. Sometimes the challenge comes in the form of a threat. IMO there’s not much lower than that.
@medigoth Depends on if they have the placard. If they have it, then I assume they have an invisible disability (especially since my mom needed one after her stroke).
If they don’t have a placard and they look like they aren’t disabled, though, I will absolutely shoot them the dirtiest look I can and try to induce a sense of shame.